As the summer sun brightens our days and draws us outdoors, staying mobile becomes even more important — and enjoyable. Whether it’s a gentle walk through the park, a visit to the local shop, or a family outing, walking aids such as canes, tri- walkers, and rollators play a vital role in helping older adults stay active and independent.
But the warmer weather also brings its own set of challenges, from hot pavements to uneven paths. In this blog, we’ll share helpful tips for using walking aids safely during the summer, so you can enjoy every step with confidence and comfort.
Here is a list of tips and products in which you can start earning your Premier + points today!
Choose the Right Walking Aid for Summer Use
Not all walking aids are created equal — and your needs might vary depending on where you’re going and how much support you require.
Rollators are excellent for longer walks and outdoor use.
- Space LX Art Line Rollator: are great for at home in both indoor and outdoor environments. The Space LX Art Line combines intuitive design, smooth lines, and high strength alloy materials. The lightweight design makes it easy to walk, lift and turn – indoors and outside. Click the link to view all variations and colours available.
- Able2 Neptune Rollator: Good for indoor/outdoor use and great for all surfaces. The rollator is easily foldable and therefore space-saving. Able2 s new Neptune rollator is a lightweight design rollator with a modern look. The rollator has comfortable soft wheels. Click the link to view the available colours.
Tri Walkers are great to offer more stability and are helpful if you need extra balance indoors or on even surfaces.
- Drive Tri-Walker with Seat: With an attractive, metallic red steel frame, the Tri-Walker with Seat is lightweight and portable, whilst offering stability and security to the user. The handle height can be easily adjusted, and the practical loop lock cable brakes can be easily applied.
- Able2 Compact Aluminium Tri Wheel Walker: The Able2 Compact Aluminium Tri Wheel Walker is a high quality 3 wheeled walker made from aluminium. It is designed to provide users with additional confidence when resting in a standing position, thanks to its looped brakes that can be locked.
Canes or walking sticks are ideal for light support and short trips. Look for rubber tips with good grip.
- Bariatric Offset Handle Cane: The Bariatric Offset Handle Cane is easy to use, with dual-button height adjustment and a locking ring. It contains steel tubing joined by a comfortable PVC hand grip with wrist strap and hard-wearing tip for traction.
- Able2 Comfort Grip Adjustable Folding Walking Stick: These high quality, lightweight folding walking sticks fold down easily into four sections; neatly fitting into a storage bag or handbag when not in use. The ergonomic palm support and finger grooves offered by this high quality, lightweight comfort grip walking stick makes it ideal for those with reduced grip capacity.
Prep Before You Step Out
Before you head outside on a summer’s day, take a few minutes to check your walking aid and plan your outing:
- Check the brakes (on Rollators and Tri- Walkers): Squeeze them to make sure they engage smoothly. If they feel loose or sticky, get them serviced.
- Inspect the wheels and tips: Look for worn rubber, sand build-up, or cracked wheels, especially after beach trips or dusty walks.
- Adjust the height: Your walking aid should support you at wrist height when your arms are relaxed at your sides. A poorly adjusted aid can lead to back strain or imbalance.
- Pack essentials: Water bottle, sunhat, sunglasses, and maybe a light cardigan for sudden weather changes. Many Rollators and Tri- Walkers have handy baskets or storage pouches for these.
Stay Cool, Comfortable, and Protected
Walking aids help you get out and enjoy the season, but it’s important to look after yourself too.
- Stay hydrated: Carry water and take breaks in the shade if needed.
- Dress for the weather: Lightweight clothing, supportive shoes (no open-back slippers!), and non-slip soles are key for comfort and safety.
- Apply sun cream: If you’ll be outside longer than 15–20 minutes, protect your skin, even on cloudy days.
- Know your limits: Plan shorter routes during the hottest part of the day (usually between 11am and 3pm), and rest often — most rollators include a seat for a reason!
Navigate Summer Hazards with Care
According to gov.uk: “People aged 65 and older have the highest risk of falling; around a third of people aged 65 and over, and around half of people aged 80 and over, fall at least once a year.” Whilst there is often a rise in the number of slips and falls in the winter months, summer presents its own unique obstacles:
- Uneven or cracked pavements: Take it slow, and if your walking aid has larger wheels (like the Drive Nitro or Aries Rollator), it will handle bumps more easily.
- Loose gravel: Use extra caution in parks, woodland paths, or garden centres. Avoid slopes if you don’t feel stable.
- Wet surfaces from sudden rain or watering hoses: Check that your walking aid’s rubber grips aren’t worn and provide good traction.
If in doubt, ask someone to assist you for longer journeys, or consider using a mobility scooter for more extended summer days out.
Aftercare: Looking After Your Walking Aid
Your walking aid also needs a little TLC after summer adventures:
- Wipe down the frame and wheels: Dust and grit can cause wear or get stuck in joints.
- Dry it off if you’ve been caught in a summer shower — especially metal parts that can rust over time.
- Store it properly: Avoid leaving walking aids in hot cars, in direct sunlight, or near damp areas. If possible, keep it indoors or under a protective cover.
- Regular servicing: If your walker or rollator has brakes or folding mechanisms, a once-over by a technician every 6–12 months can keep it in top condition.
Summer is a wonderful time to stay active, reconnect with loved ones, and enjoy the outdoors. With the right walking aid and a few simple safety checks, you can make the most of the season — comfortably and confidently.
Whether you’re strolling through your garden, popping to the shops, or exploring a local park, remember: your safety comes first, and your independence matters. Choose a reliable walking aid, plan smartly, and don’t hesitate to reach out to our friendly and knowledgeable mobility team and they will be happy to help you find the perfect walking aid and give you insightful tips how to use it safely for the summer!
