ROLLATORS

A rollator is a newfangled walker. It's not just fancier. It's IMPROVED!! There are many styles and brands. Each one has different specifications, or characteristics, which might make it better for a certain user.   Shop carefully!


REASONS for using a ROLLATOR

1. A rollator brings the center of balance back to the center...rather than out to the side, as with a cane.

2. A rollator tends to improve balance in two ways. First, if the user can put both hands on the handles, his/her weight is more evenly distributed and supported, than with a cane. Second, the rollator breaks up the visual distance and perspective. With more visual input to the brain, the brain can better determine what is out there. Also, there is a better sense of security when you aren't looking all the way to that floor, in front of you.

3. A rollator can have a seat, which allows the user to rest, if needed.

4. A rollator can have baskets and trays for carrying things. For the hemiplegic user, this is a great asset. When using a cane, the hemi user has no other hand to carry things. With a cane, there's no real incentive to walk somewhere, if you can't get something or do something with a free hand when you get there. With the rollator, your walking can accomplish a daily living activity, too.

5. A rollator is easier and lighter, for taking in cars, bathrooms, or restaurants.

6. A rollator seems to give the user more confidence and security, than a cane. This translates into a greater willingness to walk...which translates to more exercise, an improved sense of balance, and better emotional and physical health.

7. A rollator allows you to see things at a more normal level. Enough of this "staring at bellybuttons" stuff! :-)

Some other possible benefits of rollators, over traditional walkers and canes:

....4 wheels, that can practically turn on a dime, and allow for easy steering with only one hand.

....Optional large wheels, that go over bumps and carpet, easily

....SEAT!! Different sizes, some are padded. They allow you a place to rest, when you are tired of walking. Also, allows you a seat when standing in line, i.e. airport security lines, cashier lines, or waiting for a table to be ready at a restaurant!

....Hand brakes! The brakes hold the back wheels still, as you step forward.
One handed brakes are available on some models.

....Baskets to carry your things.

....Trays that sit on the bars or on the seat.
(Usually have raised edges to prevent things from sliding off.)

....Available in light weight models.
Rollators average around 12 pounds, but can be several pounds more or less.

....PRETTY COLORS!!!!    Really beats those silver things.




ARE ROLLATORS SAFE?

For three years, we were discouraged from having Mom try a rollator. The therapists and the salespeople were extremely worried that the wheels would not provide the safety and stability she needed. Finally, we tried one with hand brakes. Mom is able to follow the routine of squeezing the brake and walking safely. Here's the basic routine:

1. Lock the brake.
2. Stand, get your balance and step up to the rollator.
3. Unlock the brake.
4. Push the rollator forward.
5. SQUEEZE the brake!
6. While squeezing the brake, take two steps forward.
7. Release the brake and push rollator forward.
8. SQUEEZE the brake!, etc. etc.


Before sitting on the rollator, or returning to a wheel chair, the user locks the brake, again. This makes the rollator a relatively stable place to grab, in case balance is lost, momentarily.

In order for the rollator to be safe for the user, the user would HAVE to be able to follow a sequence or routine, such as the one, above.





ANALYZING the SPECIFICATIONS

I recommend trying several models, by going to your local medical supply stores. Once you get a feel for the rollator, you'll be able to look at the specification sheets and know what difference a few inches, here or there, will make. Be sure to measure carefully, and consider the following:

......Width between back wheels. Especially if the user is a hemiplegic (one side paralysis), he/she may need a wider area to allow for a wide leg swing. Using the rollator can actually help the person learn to bring that leg to center, because there is a frame of reference to judge straightness of the step.

......Width and depth of seat. If you plan on sitting on the seat a lot, you'll want a deeper and/or padded seat. But the half seats are fine, for a short rest.

.....Seats that flip up. Some people find it's nicer to have a seat that can flip up when you are walking. This allows you to actually walk INto the walker, rather than always having it far out in front.

.....Seat height! See if it's adjustable in height, or order one that is the best height for the user.

.....Size of wheels. Larger wheels go over bumps more easily, and do better on rocks or rough surfaces.

.....Handle bars. These need to be comfortable and either be adjustable in height, or already at the perfect height.

.....Brakes. I know of only one brand, the Dolomite (Legacy and Symphony models), which can be outfitted with a one handed brake system that applies braking power to both back wheels at once. This is wonderful for the hemiplegic user. Note: Most brake systems can be locked, so the person can turn and sit down without having to worry about the rollator scooting off.

.....Consider the weight of the rollator. They definitely vary.

.....Consider the weight capacity of the rollator. Some are made to support heavier people. This feature may raise the price, considerably.

.....Overall width and length. Consider your doorways and bathroom areas. MEASURE!!!!!

.....Price!! Different materials and gadgets can really jack up the price in a hurry. Shop around.

.....Optional accessories. The tray is nice for people who want to be able to transport items, but have only one hand. Baskets are usually included, but require you to bend over, more. There are other items, such as cane holders, carrying bags, padded seats, taller handles, anatomic grips and oxygen tank holders.


INSURANCE COVERAGE?

You have to check with your own insurance. In many cases, if your insurance has already purchased a walking device for you, they will not pay for another one. A prescription should state that you cannot use a traditional walker, and that you have specific needs, due to the stroke and/or hemiplegia, i.e. a one handed brake system, a seat, wheels, etc.

Most suppliers will bill Medicare or your insurance, but they require YOU to pay for the rollator, up front. So, you are always taking a chance that you will end up paying for the whole thing and not getting reimbursed.



HIDDEN COSTS

Depending on where you buy your rollator, you may or may not have taxes charged. Some online stores do not charge shipping. But be sure to consider what you'll pay if you don't like the rollator and have to ship it back to the company. You will have to pay the shipping and you might also have to pay a restocking charge. Ask about these things, when you buy.






   The Dolomite "Legacy" rollator, with tray on the seat, and a one-handed brake system.










The rollator, with the seat flipped up.    









   Walking with the rollator and carrying your things on the tray.
        (This is my mother. Does she look great, or what?!?!)

















Never without your seat!     













For a great website, that lists many types of rollators, and has specification sheets for many of them: Click here


Please let me know if some of these tips have helped you, or if you've developed some techniques of your own that I might share with others.


Drop me a line!


Copyright © 2002 Jill G.
All Rights Reserved