Many ailments are associated with aging, such as arthritis and osteoporosis. Both of these conditions tend to disable normal balance and movement of the body when walking. While medicines can help in reducing the associated pain, elderly patients may still require walkers to move around safely. A walker is a device, usually made of lightweight metal and adjustable for height, used to assist people with balance and mobility while walking. There are many types of walkers, and your choice can depend on the stage and type of ailment as well as the patient's walking capabilities and upper-body strength.