Are you considering purchasing a rollator walker? Here's everything you need to know before deciding to buy one of these walkers.
If you find that your daily life is becoming impacted by your lack of mobility, it may be time to consider a mobility aid. There isn't any shame in buying a walker because they can greatly improve your independence throughout the day.
You may wish to read our other articles for valuable insights on rollator walkers:
- Increasing Mobility and Stability with Rollator Walkers
- How to Choose the Right Mobility Aid for You
- Great Tips for Exercising Safely with a Walker
- How to use a Walker, Beginners Guide
You'll be able to attend the social functions, errands, and family outings that you were once reluctant to attend due to a fear of falling. Even better, there are now specially designed walkers that can fit into your daily life.
Read on for our easy buyer's guide on everything you need to know about getting a rollator walker!
What Is a Rollator Walker?
A rollator can also be called a "wheeled walker." It's built with a frame that will allow you to hold onto the top part with handlebars, three or four large wheels, and a seat attached to the frame.
Rollators can also come with accessories that will make your use easier, such as bags to hold your purse or groceries, cupholders, and more.
Since it has wheels and a seat, a rollator is a great choice if you experience weakness in your arms and can't pick up a normal walker. They aren't effective if you have trouble balancing while walking because they can't handle your full weight.
It's also a good choice if you can balance on your own but experience fatigue–you'll be able to sit in the seat whenever you desire to return your strength.
Rollator vs Walker
Now that you know what a rollator walker is, you may be wondering why you should purchase a rollator walker versus a standard walker. Walkers have no wheels, so they're the best choice for someone who has balance issues while walking.
They can handle a person's full weight without moving out from under them. However, walkers don't come with a seat.
It's possible to purchase a hybrid-walker that has small wheels on the front two legs. This means that the user only needs to lift the back legs in order to move forward, which can be easier for people who struggle to lift.
Types of Rollators
If you're ready to purchase a rollator, there are actually several different types for you to choose from. Here's a brief overview of each type and why one may be better than another for you:
Three-Wheeled
Three-wheeled rollators have a tighter turning radius, meaning that they're great to use in cramped, indoor environments. This also makes them slightly easier to control. The three-wheel design also makes them lighter and easier to transport. However, they usually don't come with a seat.
Drive Medical 3 Wheel Rollator Rolling Walker with Basket Tray and Pouch
$185.95
Drive Medical 3-Wheel Rollator Rolling Walker with Basket Tray and Pouch Drive Medical 3 Wheel Rollator Rolling Walker is the perfect way to stay active while being confident every step of the way. It is designed to help you roll… read more
Four-Wheeled
Four-wheeled rollators give you more support and make it easier to traverse over uneven terrain. Although they may not be as easy to maneuver as a three-wheeled rollator, they have a seat to allow the user to rest.
Airgo eXcursion Rollator
$438.75
Airgo eXcursion Rollator Airgo eXcursion rollator walker is a revolutionary new product on the market; it is a folding walker with four wheels used for walking assistance. It is a walking aid designed to help people with mobility problems get… read more
Heavy-Duty
Heavy-duty rollators are great for bariatric users because of their larger weight capacity, wider seats, and larger tires. They allow everyone to experience mobility and comfort while resting.
ProBasics Bariatric Heavy Duty Rollator with 8" Wheels
$215.00
$298.95
ProBasics Bariatric Heavy Duty Rollator with 8" Wheels The ProBasics Heavy Duty Bariatric Aluminum Rollator is made with an extra-strength, reinforced aluminum frame and has large, reinforced forks on 8" wheels that provide added durability. The bariatric rollator walker also… read more
Folding
Folding rollators are a great option if you travel frequently and need to be able to easily fit your rollator in the back of a car, bus, or on a plane. They usually have easy one-step folding mechanisms that make the process quick. They also come with seats.
Mobb Economy Aluminum Folding Rollator - 8" Wheels
$176.34
$194.75
Mobb Economy Aluminum Rollator with 8" Wheels The MOBB Economy Aluminum Rollator is designed with four 8” wheels for people who have difficulty walking due to any reason. Whether you have a physical disability, injury, surgical trauma or old age-related… read more
Rollator Accessories
The best part about rollators and standard walkers is that you can purchase additional accessories that can improve the quality of your life.
Unless you know what you want, we recommend you use your rollator for at least a week before you make a decision on the accessories you want to purchase. Here are some of the accessories you can enjoy:
- Snap-in cane or umbrella holsters
- Cup holders
- Cell phone holder
- Pouches and baskets
- Cushions and covers
- Padded hand grips
- Safety light
- Hand brakes
These accessories can keep you hands-free to easily control the rollator while you're out and about. Your rollator can even help you carry bags, groceries, and other items.
Cost of Rollators
When it comes to purchasing a rollator, you can expect to pay $70 to $600 for a three-wheel or four-wheel rollator. Remember that the cost varies depending on the size, material, features, and accessories included.
You can save money out-of-pocket by looking for clearance items or waiting for seasonal discounts. Some companies will offer discounts if you're a first-time buyer, so pay attention to the announcements they have on their websites.
You can typically enjoy free shipping with your purchase if you spend a certain amount of money.
If you have Medicare Part B and your doctor deems it necessary for you to have a walker, Medicare will pay for up to 80% of the cost after you pay 20%. The walker needs to be purchased from a Medicare-approved supplier in order for Medicare to pay their share of the cost.
Gaining Your Mobility Independence Back
There isn't any shame in investing in a rollator walker because you're gaining your independence back. Fatigue, weakness, or an inability to balance shouldn't stop you from attending social functions, running errands, or even stepping outside for a breath of fresh air.
Mobility aids can fit into your life seamlessly if you choose the right one. If you travel often and don't want to be burdened by heavy durable medical equipment, foldable rollators are lightweight and easy to store in car trunks. Three-wheeled rollators are easy to maneuver corners if you spend most of your time indoors.
Ready to purchase a rollator? Take a look at all of our options today!
