Rolling Walkers, Rollators, Walkers With Seats and Wheels, Pediatric Wheeled Walkers, Bariatric Rollator

A mobility walker is a device that offers stability and support for those who need help while walking. These devices, also called walkers and walking frames, are usually lightweight metal frames with four legs that are adjustable to different heights. There is a range of different types of walkers, from those of a fixed height to those with large wheels and a seat to allow a person to rest when necessary. Individuals who need something to lean against while moving, or who have difficulty maintaining their balance, can benefit from a mobility walker.

What is a Rolling Walker?

A rolling walker is a type of mobility aid that offers a minimum amount of support for the user. Those who have little difficulty walking but need something to help them balance as they move can benefit from a rolling walker. One without wheels is much safer if it will be used to lean against. A geriatric walker style normally has stationary legs. Those who need something between stationary and rolling support can put things like a tennis ball on each leg. This gives the mobility walker more resistance than wheels, but still allows it to be pushed and eliminates the need to lift it every few steps.

A folding walker is convenient and easy to load into a back seat, car trunk, or any small space. They normally have sides that fold in to make the frame almost flat for easy carrying. A walker with a chair attached takes up more space, but it allows the person to sit and rest if dizzy or fatigued. It is also an option for those who don’t want to stand for long periods of time while shopping, sightseeing, or doing other activities.

Rolling walkers can be used by anyone at any age. They can be used by those who are recovering from surgery, or by others who have disabilities that make getting around difficult. A stroke victim, a person who has arthritis, or someone recovering from injuries can often benefit from using a mobility aid such as a rolling walker. A rolling walker can help enable a person to become more independent.

How do I Choose the Best Rolling Walker?

Choosing the best rolling walker depends on personal needs and preferences. A top priority should be good construction. Aluminum is a common material used in walkers and is typically durable and sturdy. A folding walker is practical if a person has limited space to store it in. There is also the option of getting a front-wheeled walker or a walker that has both front and rear wheels. If a walker is needed for traveling purposes, one that is compact or folds can be a good option. Some collapsible walkers can include a convenient carrying pouch or case to store items in, allowing the hands to remain free for controlling the walker. Some traveling walkers with wheels generally work with two front wheels, and the back legs may offer a gliding mechanism to slide easily over all types of surfaces. A rolling walker should accommodate a person’s weight easily. If the user’s weight is close to the maximum limit, a walker with a sturdy metal frame and wide seat may need to be considered.

Choosing a rolling walker with two, three, or four wheels depends on the advantages a person needs. The two wheeled rolling walker is the most basic type. It features two wheels on the front with two stoppers on the back to make it stable. Its advantages include the ability to walk smoothly, and its easy capability to be stored as this type usually folds up. A walker with three wheels features one wheel in the front and two wheels in the back. It is usually best for fitting through narrow spaces and typically folds up for storage. This type is often considered less stable than a walker with two wheels. The four wheeled walkers are known for being the most stable type. They usually feature a seat that can be folded down to provide a place to sit.

Another option to consider is adjustability. Most walkers feature height adjustments and this is important to help avoid stress and strain, especially on the back. If the height is too low, too much stress could be put on the lower back. If the height is too high, the neck and shoulders may be strained. The walker wheels and other parts should move fluidly and smoothly.

The braking system on a rolling walker is an important feature. There are two main types to choose from: the push-down or loop type. A person’s weight should be considered when deciding which braking system works best. If a person is particularly light or heavy, they may put too little or too much weight on the push-down type of brakes. The loop type of brakes are located on the handles and require squeezing them to stop the rolling walker. If a person’s hands are damaged or weak, this type of braking system may not be the best choice. Always make sure the rear brakes are in working order before use.

Hulet Smith, OT
Rehabmart Co-Founder & CEO

lb