Walker Vs. Rollator What's The Difference?
- Kyle Coppola
August 30, 2019
- In your search for walker, have you noticed the terms walker and rollator used interchangeably? The distinction between the two is sometimes hard to understand. They both are technically walkers but offer different features and capabilities.
So, which is better for your needs - a walker or a rollator?
We are here to tell you exactly what the difference are.
Rent A Knee Walker offers many options for walkers and rollators which you can check out, but which one is the right fit for you?
Rollators and traditional walkers are both able to provide the support necessary for anyone needing assistance and stability while walking.
These reasons can be to factors like:
• Avoiding Fatigue
• Risk of Falling
• Difficulty Balancing
• Weak Muscles and Joints
Factors To Consider
Aspects you may want to consider when choosing the right walker include:• Upper body strength is important when determining which walker is right for you.
• Consider the terrain you travel on at times if traveling outside of the house consider the ability to easily fold the walker for easy transport and storage.
• It’s important to know if you can handle wheels especially with stability issues. If the person is unstable on their feet, they could move forward and fall so this should be considered.
• Make sure that the walker is adjustable for your height and weight needs.
What’s The Difference Between A Walker and Rollator?
One of the main differences you will find is that with a traditional rolling walker it’s a metal frame that includes handles. This frame needs to be lifted with each step.
Meanwhile the rollator has wheels and gets pushed.
Each offer their own individual benefits. The walker allows the individual to move at a much slower pace which is highly beneficial to people who don’t have good balance.
Can you sit on a rollator?
Yes most models do have seats and you can sit on them but it's advised you don't use it as a wheelchair because they are not designed for those types of movements.When should you use a walker?
When it is deemed that a person is incapable of putting enough weight on both legs or has poor balance but may be mobile not to need a wheelchair the walker is a great option for them to get by. If a person can’t walk short distances without feeling extremely hobbled, then a walker is a great form of support.When should you use a rollator?
Because of the advanced nature of the rollator it’s best for people that can walk but just aren’t to the point of balance feeling normal.
People who need help with balance issues find that the rollator is a great model. It doesn’t need to be lifted at all and just slid across the ground aiding in a faster walking speed. The faster speed also helps a person feel more normal when they walk.
What Kind Of Stability Is Needed?Many people ask what kind of stability is needed for a rollator or a walker? This is a good question and generally a rollator will require less stability and balance than a walker.
The reason is because they have 4 wheels and brake handles. They are meant for users who have difficulty with balance but are strong enough to stand on two feet without falling over.
They also allow for an active lifestyle which includes a seat on the front. The walker is geared more toward a person who is prone to falling. The walker offers plenty of stability. A person may move slower with a walker, but the slower speeds assist in reducing the possibility of a fall.
A patient should understand what each model can do. By being aware of which model walker or rollator this could assist in the reduction they experience any falls or mishaps leading to injury.
What Kinds Of Rollators Are Available?
You should decide on a rollator if you need support standing up and want a comfy seat to take a rest on occasionally. Here at rent a knee we offer a few different types of rollator so let’s take a look at each one and their benefits.
Freedom Super Ultralight Rollator
Make sure to take the step toward in having the freedom of mobility no matter where life takes you.
The Freedom Super Ultralight Rollator by
Medline makes this possible by adding stability and reducing stress on your body, which helps you walk faster and farther.
Its reinforced aluminum frame is safe and easy to maneuver, and this walker can support users weighing up to 250 lbs. At only 11 lbs, this durable rolling walker is 40% lighter than most wheeled walkers available. This rolling walker also folds flat when not in use, making it easy to stow when traveling.
Benefits
• Lightweight at 11lbs
• Height Adjustable accommodating 4”11 to 6”4
• 6 inch wheels offering a smoother ride
• Comfortable seat cushion with padded backrest
• Storage under the seat.
How much do rollators cost?
This model in particular is available for just $199.00 they do range in price. You can check out the standard pricing by clicking here . If concerned about the budget the next model is much cheaper.
Basic Rollator
The basic rollator features easy-to-use loop-style brakes which push down to lock and then pull up to release. It has a padded backrest and seat for comfortable resting. Also, height-adjustable arms for a custom fit and a folding design for compact storage.
Benefits
• Basket Belonging Bag Included
• Holds up to 300 lbs
• Lifetime warranty
• 8 inch wheels
• Low Price $125.00
This walker is basic but gets the job done. A seat for comfortable resting is included and although it may not have all the bells and whistles of the Freedom Super Ultralight Rollator this model is cost efficient if you are worried about your budget. This model goes for $125.00
Airgo Rollator
This premium rollator has an ultra-lightweight side-fold frame designed for superior stability and patented ergonomic hand grips absorb vibrations, while also placing your hand at a natural angle for better brake access. It is easy to fold by just a pull of the strap, and the covered soft basket folds with the frame.
TheAirgo rollator includes a folding clip for safer lifting and transporting. Has a padded seat and full contoured backrest for superior comfort. The 8” comfort-grip wheels with low-profile treaded tires are positioned outside the handles for increased stability. Accommodates users in height from approx 5'4"-6'6" and up to 300lbs.
Benefits
• Lightweight Frame
• Padded Seating
• Grip Wheels with Low Profile Tread
• Absorbs Vibrations
• Easy To Fold
This model offers the best stability. It’s easy to use functionality, fully padded seats and low profile treaded tires makes this rollator a great choice. If you are at taller person this model is likewise a good fit. Its height range makes it a nice option.
Is Assembly Required for a Rollator?
Yes, some assembly will be required for these models. Some of the rollators have multiple parts to assemble upon deliver but others do come largely assembled. If you are in the Orlando area and choose to pick up the model at our Altamonte Springs location. We can take care of varying degrees of assembly and we can build your rollator for you. The only thing you need to do is pick it up. Many people ask can you push someone on a rollator? The answer is that you should not try and push someone as most of them do not have the strength or carrying capacity for those types of wheelchair movements. They are meant to sit on but not to push someone. If you are looking for that type of equipment, check out a transport chair.
Having said that let’s see what kinds of walkers are available.
What Kinds of Walkers Are Available?
There are a few different options of standard front-wheel walkers which generally just unfold so the setup is very simple. They come with different options for a variety of different people. Choose a walker if you need stability.
Walker-Two Button Folding Walker
Useful for when you have just begun putting weight on your foot again, a folding walker can add that stability you are looking for while maintaining your mobility. This walker feather a two-button folding mechanism to make transport a snap. It accommodates users from approximately 5'1"-6'4" and up to 300 lbs.
Benefits
• Cost
• Stability
• Sliding Made Simpler from Two Front Wheels
• Accommodates Up to 300lbs.
This walker gets the job done when it comes to maintaining a persons stability. The cost is also a major selling point at only $69.99
Walker-Two Button Folding, Front Wheels
This walkers extra wide frame gives larger patients a more comfortable fit. Two-button folding capabilities let patients receive support through narrow spaces. Aluminum frame with front cross brace and dual side braces provides durability.
Benefits
• Extra Wide Frame
• More Comfortable Fit For Larger Patients
• Lightweight Aluminum Frame
This walker is perfect for a larger patient. Able to support up to 500lbs this walker absolutely gives the support necessary for its patients. Given the extra wide aluminum frame it accommodates a person as tall as 5”5 – 6”6 and that is a great benefit for taller individuals.
Walker-Two Button Folding, No Wheels
This walker features an extra-wide frame give larger patients a more comfortable fit. The two button folding capabilities let patients receive support through narrow spaces. The aluminum frame with front cross brace and dual side braces provides durability which can accommodate users up to 500lbs and in height from approximately 5'5"-6'5".
Benefits
• Added Stability with No Wheels
• Extra Wide for Larger Individuals
• Aluminum Lightweight Frame
This walker is best for very unstable patients. The walker does not include wheels. This is a good thing if a patient is trying to recover and has severe balance issues. Although you have to lift the walker with every step this can be a good option for those who have the tendency to fall easily.
Weight Is A Factor
When choosing between a Rollator and Walker weight is a factor. Models that include aluminum will be much more lightweight than any steel. For some the lighter the walker the better but this depends on the stability of the person and the overall strength they posses. Overall it really is what works best for the individual and what they feel most comfortable on.
Click here to see the models we offer.
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