The History of the Walker

Have you ever wondered who invented the walker for seniors, or when were walkers invented? We did some research into the history of walkers and uncovered some fascinating facts.

A walker (also known as a walking frame) or rollator is an essential mobility tool for people with arthritis, back pain, muscle weakness, or reduced stamina — regardless of age. But when was the walker invented, and who invented the walker we know today?

Early versions of walkers began appearing in the early 1950s. The first major breakthrough came in 1953, when William Cribbes Robb of Stretford, UK, received the first U.S. patent for a device called a “walking aid,” originally filed in 1949. This marks a key moment in walkers history.

Two wheeled variants followed and were awarded U.S. patents in May 1957. The first non-wheeled design officially called a “walker” was patented in 1965 by Elmer F. Ries of Cincinnati, Ohio. The first model that truly resembled the modern mobility device many seniors rely on today was patented in 1970 by Alfred A. Smith of Van Nuys, California.

So if you’ve ever asked when was walkers invented, who invented walkers, or how the rollator has evolved — the answer spans decades of innovation that continue to support independence for seniors worldwide.