» Assistive Technology » Mobility Aids » » Mobility Walking Aids
Buying A Rollator Walker - Tips From A Licensed Physical Therapist
Information provided by Walkersandwheelchairs.com - Published: 2010-11-20
As a physical therapist, of the most common requests I get from my patients is "How can I get one of those rollator walkers?
My business entails assessing people with physical disabilities on a daily basis and I can surely provideassistance} to you in your walker with a seat/rollator walker purchase. Below are the five most important considerations of selecting your four wheeled walker with a seat.
1) Safety vs. Mobility - Rollator walkers differ from standard ones in that they contain 4 or 3 wheels vs. 2 with a standard wheeled walker. The extra wheels give you more mobility at the expense of potential decreased overall safety. Walkers with a Seat contain hand brakes to allow the user the ability to stop the device when needed, so make sure you or your loved one is fully capable of controlling them for safety's sake. When considering buying a rollator walker, this should be a major focus point.
2) Purpose of Usage- While some may think they would benefit from a rollator model, its best to think about its purpose first. Rollators are designed for those who have some mobility issues however can still get out and might require some extra rest for their endurance by using the seat. People with difficulties walking from the bedroom to the bathroom are not great candidates for rollators and should consider a conventional walker for extra safety and support.
3) Comfort Level - Some rollator models have seats with padding for comfort. Some offer back supports with comfortable padding as well. For persons with need for this extra support, make sure to purchase the proper model.
4) 3 vs 4 Wheels - Beyond the obvious variance between 3 and 4 wheel models, be aware that 3 wheel types do not have a seat for resting. Thus, 3 wheeled models should only be purchased by those with confidence in their mobility and just need that little bit of extra support. 4 Wheeled Rollators are much more standard and used by most due to their extra safety and comfort features.
5) Wheels - Some models have inflatable tires however the majority have standard rubber wheels which provide great support. Unless you plan to do a lot of walking on uneven surfaces, go with the standard wheels.
Best of luck in your purchase.
Jeff Roth MPT is a licensed physical therapist and owner of Roth Therapy Services LLC, a home health care specialty group in Pittsburgh, PA. In addition to his practice, Mr. Roth offers advice on aspects of home health such as buying stair lifts, power wheelchairs, wheelchair lifts & mobility scooters at his site WalkersandWheelchairs.com
Not Currently Available
- This web page is from the Disabled World Mobility Walking Aids section which provides: The traditional wooden walking stick has been joined by several other types of mobility products to help those who have difficulties walking.
- The Lift Chair and the Rollator
- Mobility Aids - Rollator and Wheelchair Ramps
Note: We do not verify all information shared by those commenting. Views expressed within comments do not necessarily reflect those of Disabled World.
