Rollator-for-Healthcare-facilities-ageally

How to Use a Rollator Correctly

Hi there, i’m Phil from Ageally, today we are going to demonstrate proper use of a Rollator, including fit, walking techniques, accessories, and safety tips for community mobility.

But during the guide, you should focus on differences between Rollators and other walkers, proper fit, and safe usage.

Rollator Walker with Seat in the bedroom

1. Key Features of a Rollator

Four Wheels and the Enhanced Stability:

Provides greater mobility and smoother rolling with less friction compared to other three-wheeled counterparts. 

Four wheels provide a wider base of support, distributing weight more evenly. This significantly improves stability and reduces the risk of tipping, especially when navigating uneven terrain.

The four-wheel design allows the walker to glide smoothly over uneven surfaces like concrete or rugs, making it easier to maneuver than standard walkers.

Pivoting Front Wheels and Smooth Maneuverability:

Unlike front-wheeled walkers (which have locked wheels), Rollators have pivoting front wheels for better maneuverability and the ability to turn in place. It’s good to navigate tight corners, doorways, or crowded spaces.

Four wheels allow for smoother turning and easier maneuvering in confined areas. The extra wheel provides additional support and helps to prevent the rollator from veering off course.

Back Wheels and Improved Weight Distribution:

Similar to front-wheeled walkers, the back wheels are locked for stability.

The even weight distribution across all four wheels provides better traction and control, making it easier and safer to navigate in ascending or descending slopes.

Adjustable handle Extra Wide Bariatric Aluminium Rollator Walker

2. Proper Fit of a Rollator

Most Rollators are height-adjustable, but the method varies by model.

Common Adjustment Method:

Turn a knob on the top bar to release a screw, then adjust the height by placing the screw into different holes.

Setps to Set a Proper Height:

  • Stand in front of the Rollator with good posture.
  • Let your arms rest naturally on the hand grips.
  • The hand grips should align with the crease of your wrist.
  • Elbows should have a 20-degree bend when standing upright.

Example: Ageally demonstrates that her Rollator is slightly tall but decides not to lower it further for the demonstration. The height should be determined by your comfort level when using the rollator, any instructions from the official are for your reference only.

Standard Rollators: Typically support 300-350 lbs. 

This rolltor is the type often purchased by many home care institutions, hospitals, elderly care institutions, etc. It has good adaptability and price, and various styles and colors can meet the purchasing needs of consumers, so the sales market is very wide.

Heavy-Duty/Bariatric Rollators: Support up to 500 lbs and are wider, larger, and heavier. 

It is usually designed for Europe and the United States and other large population market, such as tall and obese people, so it usually has a large load-bearing capacity and stability, of course, the weight of this rollator is more than 30% higher than the traditional rollator.

Importance: Ensure the Rollator is appropriate for the user’s weight.

Different weights can affect the rollator experience, and choosing the wrong rollator can lead to some safety risks, such as a person’s body rolling, falling and causing injuries to the head, arms and even legs.

3. Brakes on a Rollator

dual brakes of Foldable Rollator Walker

Temporary Brake:

Pull up on the hand grips to apply the brake.

Release to allow the Rollator to roll freely.

Allows for varying degrees of braking while walking.

Parking Brake:

Press down on both sides to lock the brakes in place.

Essential when using the Rollator as a seat to prevent it from rolling away during sitting or standing.

Example: Ageally demonstrates how to apply and release both types of brakes.

4. Additional Features of a Rollator

seat of Rollator Walker

Here are the Hip Width of human in multiple ages.

Group Heading 1 Heading 2
Adult Women 36-42 cm (14-16.5 inches) 98-104 cm (38.5-41 inches)
Elderly Women Slightly narrower or stable 100-106 cm (39-42 inches)
Adult Men 32-38 cm (12.5-15 inches) 94-100 cm (37-39 inches)
Elderly Men Slightly narrower or stable 96-102 cm (38-40 inches)

All Rollators come with a seat, but dimensions, cushioning, and flip mechanisms vary.

Considerations:

If you plan to use the seat frequently, check the width, cushion thickness, and comfort.

Ensure the seat is wide enough to support your body comfortably.

Common Styles:

Tube-style backrest (minimal support).

Fabric backrest (more supportive, better for longer rest periods).

Considerations: Choose a backrest style based on how long you plan to sit.

storage-of-Bariatric-Rollator-new
storage of Rollator With Seat

Under-seat storage bags vary in size and design.

Considerations: Check the storage capacity and accessibility if you plan to use it frequently.

electric-wheelchair-in-the-car-trunk

Important for storage and transport (e.g., putting the Rollator in a car).

Example: Beth demonstrates folding her Rollator into an A-frame, but notes that it doesn’t stay folded, which could be a downside.

Tip: Read reviews to understand how well a Rollator folds and unfolds before purchasing.

Aluminium Rollator wheels

Typical Size: 5 inches (front and back).

Variations: Some Rollators have larger wheels or different wheel sizes on the front and back.

Considerations: Choose wheel size based on your mobility needs and usage environment.

Ageally-Rollator-Walker-for-daily-use

5. Walking with a Rollator

Posture:

Stand tall with chest lifted, shoulders relaxed, and hands slightly in front of your hips.

Avoid leaning forward, as this can cause imbalance, strain, and increase the risk of falling.

Walking Technique:

Push the Rollator forward slightly (a couple of inches) before taking a step.

Keep your feet between the back wheels.

Take natural steps without hitting the seat.

Turning:

Pivot the Rollator in place while turning your feet.

Keep the Rollator slightly in front of you to avoid hitting the seat with your knees.

Example:  Walking and turning with the Rollator, emphasizing upright posture and smooth movements.

6. Safety Tips

Rollator-for-Healthcare-facilities-ageally

At Home:

Remove tripping hazards such as loose rugs, cords, or clutter that could get caught in the wheels.

In the Community:

Be cautious of slippery or wet surfaces.

Ensure the Rollator is stable before sitting or standing.

How to Use a Rollator Conclusion

When use a Rollator, you should consider the proper fit, posture, and technique are essential for safe and effective Rollator use.

Use your Rollator safely to maintain mobility, independence, and the ability to do the things you love every day.