Who should use a rollator?

Whether or not to buy a walker depends on individual physical needs. Not all post-operative recoveries require the purchase of a walker.

This article is only intended to help you decide whether you need a rollator or not. For more information, you should consult your doctor or physical therapist.

Who should use a rollator?

People who need a rollator usually have some walking disability. People who cannot walk at all or have only minor leg injuries usually do not need a rollator. Here are some user groups that use rollators:

1. Seniors with mobility issues: As they age, many seniors may experience weakened muscles, arthritis pain, or reduced balance. A walker can help them maintain their ability to move independently.
2. Patients in rehabilitation: Individuals who have undergone surgery or injury (e.g. hip replacement, knee surgery, etc.) may require a walker to assist with walking during the rehabilitation process, relieve pressure on the joints, and speed recovery.
3. People with walking difficulties: Some people who have difficulty walking due to illness or disability, such as those suffering from multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's disease or cerebral palsy, may require a rollator to provide additional support and stability.
4. People with unsteady gait: This includes people with balance problems that may be caused by neurological disorders, inner ear problems, or other health problems.

If you have any of the above conditions, you should consider purchasing a rollator. Rollators come in many styles including four-wheeled rollators, standard rollators, etc.

Choosing the right model can effectively improve the user's mobility and quality of life. Again, before purchasing a rollator, you should consult your doctor or contact us for help.

In which cases should I buy a wheelchair instead of a walker?

Choosing between a walker or a wheelchair depends largely on your mobility, stamina and daily needs. Here are some cases where a wheelchair may be preferable:

1. Severe mobility limitation: If you are unable to stand or walk independently, or if you do not have enough strength in your lower extremities to safely use a walker, a wheelchair is probably a better option.
2. Significant fatigue or lack of stamina: If even short walking distances causes severe fatigue, or if you have medical conditions that limit your stamina, a wheelchair can help you conserve energy and maintain a more active lifestyle.
3. Lack of balance and stability: For people with severe balance problems or those at high risk of falling, a wheelchair provides a stable form of mobility that significantly reduces the risk of injury from falls.
4. Medical recommendations: In cases of progressive neurological diseases (such as advanced multiple sclerosis or ALS) or after certain surgeries where weight-bearing is severely limited, doctors may recommend the use of a wheelchair.
5. Recovery from major surgery or injury: If you are recovering from major surgery or a significant injury and are unable to walk for long periods of time, a wheelchair may be essential for mobility and daily activities.
6. Quality of life and independence: If a rollator is not sufficient to perform daily activities independently or if it does not provide sufficient mobility in your environment, a wheelchair may be necessary to improve your quality of life and autonomy.

If you have any of these conditions, you should consider using a wheelchair. Usually, when you have such problems, your doctor will tell you which form of mobility is more appropriate for your current situation.

In which cases should I use a walking stick instead of a rollator?

The decision of whether to use a rollator or a cane usually depends on mobility, stability needs, and safety concerns. Here are some situations where a cane might be more appropriate than a rollator:

1. Mild balance problems: If you have only minor balance problems and do not need the extensive support of a walker, a cane may provide enough support to maintain balance.
2. Light assistance needs: For those who only need light assistance, a walking stick provides adequate assistance and is more portable and flexible compared to a rollator.
3. Partial weight-bearing: If you can walk independently but need to relieve pressure on one side of your body, a cane can help distribute weight and reduce stress on a painful or healing limb.
4. Good upper body strength and coordination: Using a cane requires a certain amount of arm strength and coordination. If your upper body strength and coordination are good, a cane can be an effective aid.
5. Activities in small spaces: If your activities mainly take place in the home or other confined spaces where the floor is flat, a walking stick may adequately meet your daily needs.
6. Suitability for short distances or indoors: Walking sticks are especially useful indoors or in situations where you need to move around in crowded areas, such as offices or shopping malls.

If you are unsure whether you should use a cane, walker or other type of mobility aid, it is best to consult with a doctor or physical therapist. They can assess your walking ability, physical strength and general health to recommend the most appropriate mobility aid. In addition, professional guidance can help you learn how to use a cane correctly to ensure safety and efficiency while walking.

Tips for buying the perfect rollator

1. Assess mobility needs: Consult your doctor to determine if you need a walker and what type of walker is best for you.
   • Rollator Type to Consider:Standard Rollator: No wheels, provides maximum stability, good for indoor use where you can lift it while walking.
   • Two-wheeled rollator: wheels on the front legs, easier to maneuver, requires less lifting, suitable for light to moderate assistance needs.
   • Four-wheel rollator: Wheels on all four legs, including brakes, a seat, and often a basket. Best for outdoor use and for those who can walk longer distances but need an occasional rest.
2. Check the weight and height adjustability: The rollator should be light enough to lift and maneuver without effort, and be height adjustable to fit your exact measurements and be ergonomically usable.
3. Examine handles: After purchasing a rollator, try the handles yourself to test comfort. Choose a handle that is soft, non-slip, and conforms to the shape of your hand to avoid fatigue and discomfort.
4. Test stability: Take a few steps with the rollator to make sure it does not wobble to ensure safety.
5. Portability and Storage: If you need to go on a long trip, you can buy a foldable model of the rollator from our website, which can be conveniently carried in cars and airplanes.
6. Accessory options: Check if the rollator can be adapted with accessories such as trays, baskets or bags, which can be very useful for carrying personal items or for shopping.
7. Try before you buy: If possible, try several different models to see which is most comfortable and best suits your walking style.
8. Budget: Finally, consider your budget. Our rollators range in price from $100-$400, which should definitely be within your budget!

Choosing the right rollator can greatly improve your mobility and quality of life, so it's important to take the time to carefully consider these factors.

Rollators - FAQ

Why do older people often refuse to use a walker?

Older people often refuse to use rollators for emotional and psychological reasons, such as pride and the stigma associated with age and disability. They may see the use of a rollator as an admission of weakness or fear that others will perceive them differently. Aesthetic concerns about the appearance of rollators, which often appear unattractive and clinical, also play a role.

Practical challenges such as the complexity of use, particularly in confined living spaces, and the physical effort required can also deter use. A lack of awareness of the benefits of rollators, fear of increased dependency and financial concerns also contribute to reluctance.

However, purchasing a rollator is beneficial for them and we can help them overcome these difficulties.

Can a rollator be used as a wheelchair?

No, even though rollators have a seat, they are not suitable for use as wheelchairs. They do not have footrests and are not designed to be safe or comfortable for prolonged seated mobility or to be pushed by another person for long periods of time.

Rollators are intended to provide assistance with walking and are not a replacement for the full functionality of a wheelchair, which is designed for greater comfort, safety and maneuverability while seated.

Is the use of a rollator considered a disability?

The use of a rollator does not necessarily mean that a person is disabled; it simply indicates that they need assistance in walking.

Many people use rollators due to temporary conditions (such as after surgery), age-related decline in mobility, or specific physical conditions.

The term “disabled” is broader and includes a variety of physical, sensory, intellectual or mental health conditions that significantly limit one or more major life activities.

The use of a rollator can therefore be part of dealing with individual circumstances, regardless of whether the person classifies themselves as disabled or not.

Further reading: Rollator 2024: Types and important selection criteria.