Staying active is essential at every age—but for many older adults or those living with chronic conditions like multiple sclerosis (MS), traditional forms of exercise can feel out of reach. Now, health experts are pointing to simple mobility aids like walkers for seniors with seat and travel mobility scooters as powerful tools for promoting daily activity and supporting physical and mental well-being.
A new clinical review published in The Journal of Geriatric Physical Therapy shows that regular use of mobility walkers with seat can increase both physical endurance and balance confidence in older adults, especially when walking is paired with short rest periods using the built-in seat.
The Science Behind It
According to lead researcher Dr. Emily Hartwell, PhD, a geriatric physical therapist at UCLA Health, “When seniors use a walker for adults with seat, they are more likely to walk longer distances. Having a place to rest reduces the fear of fatigue or falling, which is a major barrier to mobility.”
In fact, the study found that individuals using a walker with seat improved their 6-minute walking distance by over 20% compared to those without a seat feature.
This makes seated walkers particularly beneficial for people with MS. According to the National MS Society, walking aids for MS not only improve mobility but also reduce the risk of falls, which can be catastrophic for patients with weakened motor control. The best walker for MS patients, the study notes, are those that include adjustable height, ergonomic hand grips, and a durable, padded seat.
Staying Active While Traveling
Mobility doesn’t stop at home. Whether it’s a trip to the local grocery store or a vacation abroad, traveling with a mobility scooter is another way seniors can maintain an active lifestyle.
A recent consumer survey by the American Mobility Association found that over 70% of seniors using a 4 wheel portable mobility scooter reported increased confidence while traveling, thanks to their scooter’s foldability and lightweight design.
“Compact models like the mobility scooter for car trunk storage or those designed for air travel empower users to move freely without needing constant assistance,” says mobility equipment specialist Carla Jenkins. “It’s not just about convenience—it's about independence.”
Models such as the portable all terrain mobility scooter can handle diverse surfaces, from paved city streets to grassy parks, making them ideal for outdoor fitness and social interaction.
A Holistic Approach to Senior Wellness
Staying physically active—whether it’s a stroll through the park with a walker with seat, or sightseeing on a mobility scooter for travel—is strongly associated with improved cardiovascular health, lower rates of depression, and even better cognitive function in seniors.
Dr. Hartwell emphasizes that the combination of movement and independence is key:
“These tools are more than medical devices. They are enablers of freedom, social connection, and better health.”
Whether you're caring for a loved one or planning ahead for your own golden years, it’s worth exploring tools like adult walkers, mobility scooters for cars, and other smart mobility solutions that keep life moving—comfortably and confidently.
