Essential Tips to Keep You Safe While Using a Rollator

Rollator walkers are getting quite a trend when compared to traditional walkers. The wheels' inclusion at the bottom makes it favourable for some, while others might hesitate a bit before actually using it. So, it is important to assess the utility of the rollator walkers properly.

What is a Rollator Walker?

A rollator walker is a walker with three or four wheels. The wheels help people move it quickly, whereas, in the traditional walker, you had to lift the walker each time you would take a step forward. Generally, there is also a seat and backrest in a rollator walker, which adds to the level of convenience. A person can easily sit on the seat whenever he feels, and the backrest helps him recline in a good posture.

Are Rollator Walkers Safe for Elders?

Many people have the conception that the wheels in the walker make it a bit risky as it can slip off anytime. But this is more of a misconception. Rollator walkers come with brakes on each side of the handle. It can be used with the lightest of the press. This will put the wheel to a halt. There are also lock-breaks in the wheel so anyone can rest on it without worrying about whether it will start moving.

So, you can easily use this walker for the elders. It will give them a sense of independence. Covering short distances with the help of it is ideal and more advanced than traditional walkers. As far as long distances are concerned, assisted medical transport can be availed.

Note: Make sure not to use it as a wheelchair, where a person sitting on the walker wants someone to push it forward. There is a high chance that the rollator will tip.

Tips to Use Rollator Safely

To make the most of the rollator, you have to keep in mind specific safety tips. They are as follows:

Choose the Size and Build

Rollators come in all sizes and shapes. The material of the product can also be different if you take it from different providers. Based on your height and weight, you should pick a rollator that is most comfortable for you. The walker's height should be such that you can easily hold it without needing to stoop too much. Similarly, the device should have the durability to hold off your weight quite easily.

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Hold it the Right Way

Many older people put their entire weight on the rollator and use the handle to pull themselves up from the walker. This practice should be avoided at once, for the rollator might tip due to excess weight and loss of balance. The best way to use a rollator is to put only the weight of your body which your legs cannot hold. Also, while getting up from the walker, you should make sure to use the strength of your legs as much as you can. You should follow the same practice while sitting down on the seat of the walker.

Monitor your Speed

The friction in a rollator walker is much less than typical walkers for the simple reason that the former has wheels. But the wheels can also tempt you to walk at a much faster pace than what is normally good for you. Your centre of gravity should not be trifled with. So, be careful while using the rollator and make sure that your speed does not cross the slow to medium pace threshold. If you are in a hurry to reach a place, you can always take the help of private medical transport services.

Fingers on the Breaks

This tip works more effectively for people who are still not used to the rollator walkers or are new. While walking by, grabbing the handle might seem more convenient, but it is better to learn to put your fingers on the breaks without pushing them. The practice of doing so can come in handy at times when you come across a sudden obstacle. And do not worry, you will soon come into the habit of walking like this with regular practice.

Be Cautious on Stairs

Technically, you can climb the stairs using rollators, but it can be a pretty risky affair. Despite its numerous advantages, using a rollator on stairs is not a good idea. The wheels can slip, and you might get involved in a serious accident. It is best to avoid rollators on stairs and find some other alternative for it. For instance, to transport home from the hospital where you will have to face the stairs, you can opt for NEMT services. They will send certified personnel who will safely take you to your destination.

Daily Rollator Inspection

Every time you take your rollator out, it is best to inspect it properly. The wheels, brakes and other parts of the walker should be checked properly. If you find a part is loose, or the brake is not working, you can call the company, and they will send a service provider to repair it.

Rollator walkers are great for older people if they know how to use them effectively. With proper control of the walker, you can turn it to your full advantage.

A rollator walker is a walker with three or four wheels. The wheels help people move it quickly, whereas, in the traditional walker, you had to lift the walker each time you would take a step forward. Generally, there is also a seat and backrest in a rollator walker, which adds to the level of convenience. A person can easily sit on the seat whenever he feels, and the backrest helps him recline in a good posture.

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