Rollator Walker As Aid To Elderly And Handicapped
A rollator is a mobility aid designed to assist people who suffer from a condition which makes walking difficult. These could be people recovering from orthopedic surgery or those suffering from degenerative muscular diseases who would otherwise have had to resort to crutches, walkers or even wheelchairs to move around. Rollators are very similar to standard walkers with the advantage that they are more easy to use. Rollators have long been in use in European countries, more especially Scandinavia, but are relatively new in the United States.
How A Rollator Functions
The rollator is a vehicle with a frame similar to that of a walker, and handles and wheels which offers mobility support. It has four large tires, typically of 8” in diameter, and a seat with backrest between the handles which allows the user to sit whenever necessary. It is generally fitted with a large basket for storage purposes and has lockable caliper brakes on the handles. The rollator is designed to be portable. It collapses, enabling it to be folded and stored in a car trunk.
Rollators come in two models – 3 wheeled and 4 wheeled. The 3 wheel rollator is smaller and more maneuverable in tight places. The 4 wheel model however is more stable.
Are there Any Drawbacks with a Rollator?
The rollator is a relatively new device on which much study has not been done. Orthopedic surgeons and physicians do have some reservations whether this walking aid, because of its design and the support point, does more harm than good. The rollator bears the patient’s weight at hip level which significantly reduces the stress on ankles and knees normally experienced when walking. This relocation of weight bearing tends to create a more restricted range of motion over a period of time. While the rollator does facilitate movement, it does not totally replicate natural body movements which take place when we walk. Many physicians believe that with this anomaly the rollator is more suited to patients with long-term mobility issues while those with short-term problems would benefit more from a standard walker or crutches.
What is the Difference between a Standard Rollator and an Extra-Wide Rolling Walker?
The only difference between the two is that the extra-wide rollator is a wider, heavy-duty version that is designed and built to support larger patients of up to 400 pounds in weight. The Invacare Bariatric Roller is a stronger version designed for patients of up to 500 pounds. Extra-wide rollators are also known as Bariatric rollators. However, Rollator Walker Accessories can be used for both mobility aids.
Where are Extra-Wide Rollators Available?
There are several makers of extra-wide rollers which you can locate online. Specifications vary from one maker to the next so you will be able to decide which model suits your requirement and physique. Prices vary considerably depending on the materials of construction and the features that come along with a model. However as a guideline, you can expect prices to start from $300 onward. This is significantly more than for a standard rollator where prices start at around $75.