Buying Crutches for an Elderly Parent: A Caregiver's Guide

Buying crutches for a parent means weighing things you might not think about for yourself: balance, grip strength, and how easy the crutch is to handle day to day. Safety and stability come first.

What to prioritize for an older adult

• Stability over speed. Wide, articulating tips and a secure stance matter more than being lightweight. A stable crutch prevents falls.
• Grip comfort. Anatomical, cushioned grips are easier on arthritic hands and reduce fatigue.
• Easy adjustment. Simple, secure height locks so the fit is right and stays right.
• Right weight capacity. Match the crutch’s rated capacity to your parent’s weight with margin to spare.
• Forearm vs. underarm. Forearm crutches are usually better for ongoing use, but make sure your parent has the upper-body strength and balance for them. A clinician can advise.

Don’t overlook fit

A crutch that’s too tall or too short is both uncomfortable and unsafe. Check the height range against your parent’s measurements, and have them try the adjusted height before relying on it.

Our picks

The best forearm crutches comparison flags which models are easiest to recommend for comfort and stability at a fair price. Not sure? The quiz will narrow it down.

This is general information, not medical advice. For an older adult, especially with balance or strength concerns, check with a clinician or physical therapist about the right mobility aid.