A rollator is a walker. It acts as a wheeled support and is used to help people with mobility limitations get around safely. By using a rollator, people with walking disabilities become mobile again.
What is a rollator?
With a rollator, it is possible for people with walking restrictions to be able to move more freely and without further supports. In 1978, the walker now known as a rollator was developed by Swedish woman Aina Wifalk. She herself suffered from polio and the resulting difficulty in walking. Because of the rollator, she was once again able to move more freely and without further supports. The idea was taken up by a Swedish company and due to their practical use, rollators were soon patented and widely used. Initially, these walking aids were made of sturdy metal tubing. They consisted of four wheels at the lower end of the frame. Above the frame, the tubes end in two handles that provide appropriate support. Other accessories were developed, such as transport baskets, brakes, seats, holders for walking sticks or forearm supports. Initially, a basic model was created that could be used universally. In the further course of the production of rollators, various models were developed, which allowed specific use and purpose binding.
Forms, types and types
The basic model of the rollator is made of sturdy metal tubes, has an almost square base with four wheels and two bars running upwards, which end in two sturdy handles. From this basic version, different models were created for different loads and zones of use. For example, particularly light and narrow rollators are made of wood, which are particularly suitable for indoor use. Furthermore, frame-reinforced designs with larger wheels and appropriate additional equipment and bags, which are very suitable for off-road use. Brakes were placed under the handles to prevent the rollator from slipping away. Also, in further development, the rollators were designed so that they could be conveniently folded and could also be transported in a car. In addition, particularly lightweight models made of aluminum tubing came onto the market, which can be lifted more easily and carried over obstacles. As an alternative to the classic rollator with four wheels and the basic shape of a square, walking wheels with a basic triangular shape were developed. These so-called delta walking wheels with only three wheels have the advantage of being more mobile. The disadvantage compared to the four-wheeled rollator is the lower stability.
Structure and mode of operation
A rollator follows the principle of a shopping cart in its construction. Only the rolling walker is much more stable and resilient. The square base frame rests on four wheels, which have the same size according to the use or have two larger wheels in the standing area. The wheels are sturdy rubber wheels, like those found on transport carts. If it is an all-terrain model, the wheels of the rollator are also reinforced with knobs. Newer models have enlarged wheels to make locomotion even better. The rear frame tapers upward to end in two handles that are height adjustable. Below the handles are two brakes that are connected to the rear wheels. This prevents the rollator from rolling away during use. Often, the two tubes that lead to the handles are still provided with a connection, which is widened to about 20 cm in the center. This area can be used as a seat. Especially older people with walking difficulties are quickly exhausted when they are on the road for some time with the rollator. The seat on the rollator is a good way to get some rest. When using the seat, however, care must be taken to apply the brakes so that the rollator cannot roll away. For locomotion, the person leans on the rollator’s two handholds, making it easier to move forward. The handholds also serve as a steering mechanism. A rollator is much more effective than a walking stick because both arms are supported and the rolling of the wheels makes locomotion easier. If the person with walking difficulties also needs a walking stick, there are appropriate holding devices for the rollator into which the walking stick can be inserted or clamped. People often carry out their entire daily activities with their rollators.Therefore, it is very practical if the rollator is equipped with a transport basket in front of the handles. This basket can be used to transport the handbag or even the day’s shopping. Since many users of rollators have an unsteady stand, it is very relieving that the rolling walker does not have to be lifted. However, stairs can only be mastered to a limited extent. The rollator is more suitable for flat surfaces. Road edges, on the other hand, can be mastered well. As a further accessory, a practical tray or a drink holder can still be attached.
Medical and health benefits
A rollator has considerable medical benefits for the user, as it greatly increases the mobility and agility of a person with walking difficulties. Many people would not be able to carry out their daily activities without their rollators, and thus would lose a great deal of quality of life. The rolling walkers enable weak, elderly and walking-impaired people to move around outdoors with appropriate safety. This means of locomotion allows people to maintain their independence as much as possible. The rollator is an instrument that allows the user to move relatively freely, independent of outside help. Thus, the user can still actively participate in public life.
