Walker (Walking Frame) in Namibia
Leading Walker (Walking Frame) Supplier

A Walker (Walking Frame) is a mobility aid designed to provide enhanced stability and support for individuals experiencing gait difficulties, weakness, or balance impairments. It consists of a frame, typically made of lightweight yet durable metal like aluminium, with four legs or sometimes wheels and legs, offering a wider base of support than a cane or crutches. The user grips the handles and pushes the frame forward, synchronizing its movement with their steps. This synchronized movement facilitates weight-bearing and reduces the load on lower extremities, thereby improving confidence and safety during ambulation.

The primary function of a walker is to augment an individual's ability to walk independently and safely by increasing their base of support, improving balance, and reducing the risk of falls. It distributes body weight more evenly, alleviating pressure on joints and muscles that may be compromised due to injury, illness, or age-related decline.

In Namibia, walkers (walking frames) are essential mobility aids utilized across a diverse range of healthcare settings and patient populations. Their importance spans from acute care to long-term rehabilitation, directly impacting patient recovery, independence, and safety.

Teaching Hospitals, such as the Windhoek Central Hospital, require a consistent supply of walkers to support patients in departments dealing with complex conditions and extensive rehabilitation programs. This includes:

• Orthopaedic Departments for post-surgical recovery (e.g., hip or knee replacements, fracture management) and for patients with chronic joint conditions.

• Neurology Departments for individuals recovering from strokes, spinal cord injuries, or managing progressive neurological disorders like Parkinson's disease, where balance and gait stability are compromised.

• Geriatric Departments to assist elderly patients with age-related mobility issues, frailty, and post-fall management.

• Rehabilitation Centers, often affiliated with or within teaching hospitals, where walkers are fundamental tools for physical therapists to guide patients through gait training and functional mobility exercises.

District Hospitals and Regional Hospitals throughout Namibia also play a crucial role in providing walkers. These facilities serve a broader population and cater to a range of common conditions requiring mobility support:

• General Surgery patients recovering from abdominal procedures or other surgeries that may temporarily affect mobility.

• Internal Medicine wards for patients experiencing weakness, deconditioning, or recovering from acute illnesses that impact their ability to walk independently.

• Emergency Departments for temporary support of patients with acute injuries or those experiencing sudden mobility loss.

Community Health Clinics, while typically not stocking large quantities, may require walkers for temporary use or for referrals to assessment and training services. They are vital in identifying individuals in the community who would benefit from a walker for home use, especially in remote areas where access to specialized rehabilitation is limited.

Beyond these facility types, walkers are indispensable for Specialized Rehabilitation Centers focusing on specific patient groups, such as those with amputations, developmental delays, or chronic pain conditions, where tailored gait assistance is paramount.

We understand that the efficient and correct setup of your new walker (walking frame) is crucial for the safety and mobility of your patients in Namibia. Our streamlined installation process ensures your equipment is ready for use with minimal disruption. We prioritize clear communication and expert execution throughout.

Site Preparation

While walkers are generally mobile and require minimal site preparation, we recommend ensuring the intended areas of use are clear of obstructions. This includes:

• Adequate Pathways: Ensure hallways, doorways, and rooms where the walker will be used are free from clutter, loose rugs, or uneven surfaces.
• Clear Turning Radii: Confirm there is sufficient space for the user to maneuver and turn comfortably.
• Appropriate Flooring: While walkers are designed for most surfaces, smooth and stable flooring is ideal for optimal performance.

Delivery

Upon purchase, your walker will be carefully packaged and delivered directly to your facility in Namibia by our trusted logistics partners. We provide timely updates on delivery schedules. Our delivery personnel are trained to handle medical equipment with care, ensuring it arrives in pristine condition.

Installation Steps

The installation of most walker models is straightforward, often requiring minimal assembly. Our standard procedure includes:

• Unpacking and Inspection: Our technician will carefully unpack the walker and conduct an initial inspection for any visible damage incurred during transit.
• Assembly (if applicable): For models requiring minor assembly (e.g., attaching handles, fitting accessories), our technician will complete this process efficiently.
• Functional Check: We will perform a thorough functional check to ensure all components operate smoothly, including height adjustability, folding mechanisms, and braking systems (if applicable).
• User/Staff Briefing: A brief orientation will be provided to your designated staff or the end-user on the proper operation and care of the walker.

Calibration Requirements

Walkers (walking frames) are generally pre-calibrated from the factory and do not require complex on-site calibration. However, our installation process includes:

• Height Adjustment Verification: The technician will ensure the walker is set to the appropriate height for the intended user, or demonstrate how to adjust it safely. This is a critical step for proper posture and support.
• Wheel Alignment Check (for wheeled walkers): For walkers with wheels, we will confirm that the wheels track correctly and spin freely without undue resistance.
• Stability Assessment: A final check will be performed to confirm the walker is stable on a level surface and provides the expected support.

Our commitment is to provide you with a fully functional and safe walker, ready to enhance mobility for your clients in Namibia.

The cost of a walker (walking frame) in Namibia can vary significantly based on several factors, including the type of walker, its features, and whether it's a brand-new or refurbished unit. For individuals and healthcare facilities seeking to purchase a walker, understanding these price variations is crucial for making an informed decision. We aim to provide a realistic overview of the Namibian market.

Generally, you can expect to find new, standard, non-wheeled walkers (often referred to as z-walkers or basic frames) starting in the lower to mid-range of the Namibian Dollar (NAD) spectrum. These models offer essential stability and support for users with moderate mobility challenges. As you move towards walkers with more advanced features such as wheels, brakes, ergonomic grips, or adjustable heights for specific user needs, the price will naturally increase.

Refurbished walkers can present a more budget-friendly option. These units have been previously used and then professionally cleaned, inspected, and repaired to ensure they are safe and functional. While the exact price difference will depend on the condition of the refurbished unit and the original cost of the new model, refurbished walkers typically offer a substantial saving compared to their new counterparts. However, it's important to ensure that any refurbished equipment purchased from a reputable supplier comes with a guarantee of its quality and safety.

Navigating the Namibian healthcare landscape for reliable walker (walking frame) solutions requires a partner with proven expertise and unwavering commitment. At Franance Health, we stand as your trusted source for high-quality walking frames, backed by a dedication to service excellence that directly benefits our Namibian clients.

Why Partner with Franance Health for Your Walker Needs?

• OEM Partnerships for Uncompromising Quality: We pride ourselves on our robust partnerships with Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) renowned for their innovation and stringent quality control. This direct relationship ensures that every walker we supply adheres to the highest international standards, guaranteeing durability, safety, and optimal functionality for users across Namibia.
• Local Engineering Team for Tailored Support: Understanding the unique demands of the Namibian market, our dedicated local engineering team is equipped to provide expert advice and technical support. Whether you require assistance with product selection, setup, or troubleshooting, our team is readily available to ensure seamless integration and ongoing satisfaction.
• Comprehensive Warranty for Peace of Mind: We believe in the longevity and reliability of our products. That's why all our walkers come with a comprehensive warranty, offering you complete peace of mind. This commitment underscores our confidence in the quality of our equipment and our dedication to supporting your investment long after purchase.

When you choose Franance Health, you're not just acquiring a medical device; you're gaining a dependable partner invested in the well-being of Namibians.

When you receive a standard walker (walking frame) for use in Namibia, it typically arrives as a complete, ready-to-use mobility aid. Unlike complex medical machinery that requires specialized components like probes, coils, workstations, or UPS systems, a walker is designed for simplicity and immediate functionality. The primary unit itself is the complete 'configuration'.

At [Your Company Name Namibia], we understand the critical role walkers play in patient mobility and recovery. That's why we offer robust warranty and comprehensive maintenance plans to ensure your medical equipment operates reliably and efficiently. Our commitment extends beyond the initial purchase, providing peace of mind and maximizing the lifespan of your walking frames.

All our walker (walking frame) models are supplied with a standard manufacturer's warranty, covering defects in materials and workmanship. The specifics of the warranty period, typically ranging from 12 to 24 months depending on the model, are clearly outlined at the time of purchase and within your product documentation. Should you encounter any issues during the warranty period, our dedicated Namibian support team is readily available to assist with prompt assessment and resolution.

To further enhance the longevity and performance of your walkers, we highly recommend our Preventive Maintenance Plan (PPM). Our PPM services are designed to identify and address potential issues before they escalate, ensuring your equipment remains in optimal condition. These scheduled inspections and tune-ups are crucial for maintaining safety and functionality, especially in demanding healthcare environments.

Spare parts for our walker range are readily available through our Namibian distribution network. We maintain a stock of common replacement components to minimize downtime in the unlikely event of a part requiring replacement. Our team can quickly identify and source the necessary parts, ensuring your walker is back in service with minimal interruption.