Walking aids provide a better quality of life despite limited mobility. But which model should you choose? The most common and popular are walking sticks and rollators. That's why many people ask themselves whether they should choose a rollator or a walking stick. Below we explain the biggest differences and who is suitable for which walking aid.
What makes a walking stick?
Walking sticks are easy to use, easy to transport and in most cases inexpensive. They are often made of solid material such as aluminum, but depending on your taste they are also available in different types of wood.
Equipped with a rubber tip at the bottom, the walking stick ensures stability and safety. The handle is also usually ergonomically shaped and sits comfortably in the hand. This means you can support yourself with part of your body weight while walking. To ensure an upright posture, the walking stick should be adjusted to your height.
What makes a rollator?
Rollators are walking carts with four wheels. Since you support yourself on them with both hands, they offer more stability than a walking stick. The frame is made of aluminum or carbon . The type, size and profile of the wheels vary depending on the location and model.
Rollators are also a comfortable solution because they are often equipped with seats and backrests . This means you can take a short or long break. Thanks to practical accessories such as nets or bags, objects can be transported. In addition, many rollator models can be folded up so that they can be easily stored or transported.
Walking stick vs. rollator – How to make your decision
The walking stick is the better choice if you only need a little support when walking. It is particularly easy to handle, but is more suitable for indoor use, as otherwise falls may occur.
The rollator market, on the other hand, offers a variety of models that are also designed for outdoor use. Outdoor rollators are a bit heavier and their wheels have a wider profile.
A rollator is also the right choice if you want more comfort and stability. Instead of just supporting yourself on one side, the two-handed guidance and the evenly moving wheels enable you to walk upright. This relieves the strain on the trunk and leg muscles and can also provide more safety in the case of balance problems. The walking aid on four wheels is also multifunctional: it allows you to take short breaks and can also be used as a means of transport.
Conclusion
So how do you decide between a walking stick and a rollator? Both walking sticks and rollators are useful everyday companions. However, they are fundamentally different from one another. While a walking stick serves well as a small, one-sided support when walking and standing, a rollator offers more stability overall and some additional functions.
The decisive factor in your purchase decision should therefore be what kind of support you need in everyday life and what you want to use your walking aid for. The best way to decide which walking stick or rollator you should choose is to do extensive research - online or in a specialist shop. It is advisable to test the model thoroughly before choosing your future rollator or walking stick. This way you can be sure that you feel comfortable with it and that it provides the stability you need.
In the Vocic shop you will find a large selection of different rollators. Thanks to the 30-day return policy, you can exchange or return the model within 30 days. Take a look around now and find the right model!
