Many people thinking about purchasing a walking aid mobility, think that walkers and rollators are the same thing, but actually they are two very different kinds of walking aids. Both use different means, even though their purpose, to aid in mobility issues with walking, is the same. This article will discuss what factors you should consider when deciding whether to purchase an adult walker or a rollator.
Adult Walker
Aluminum supports are used for building adult walkers. The main drawback is that as you walk with it, you have to lift it, move it forward, and then place it back down for it to function correctly. While it would appear to not move as smoothly as a rollator, consider that many models have wheels to make it move more like one. When compared side-by-side with a rollator, the walker gives better support and is less expensive, but does not move as smoothly.
Models
Adult walkers are available with wheels or without. With the wheel type, you get small ‘caster’ wheels at the bottom, and it makes the walker slide when the user operates it, making it ride more easily.
Bariatric
For folks whose weight is above the norm, Bariatric Products has a line of products built especially for them. Walkers normally won’t hold more than 250-350 lbs. Bariatric walkers are suitable for those who weigh too much for the standard walker. It’s bigger and can hold more weight, often up to 600 pounds.
Specialty
There are even specialty walkers available today. For those people who have difficulty walking with a regular walker, these are walkers that have posterior safety rollers and anterior rollers. The rollers are designed with the specific purpose of helping people with ailments or diseases that affect their ability to walk. These walkers aid in helping the walker maintain strong balance and keeps them walking in straight lines.
Rollator Types
A rollator is very much like a standard walker but it has the accessories that a regular walker does not have that can be useful in everyday living. The main thing to remember is that a rollator is easier to use than a walker. People using a rollator are able to slide along on the ground with a minimum of effort, since the device is ergonomically engineered to make the activity of walking easier. Furthermore, Rollators are available in a variety of fashionable colors.
3 Wheel Rollators
These are somewhat small in size and are better suited for moving in a tight space. In the opinion of some individuals, compared to 4 wheel rollators the 3 wheel variety looks better and appears more stylish. Personal items can be carried in a small pouch attached to front.
4 Wheel Rollators
The four wheel rollator is a larger model and as its name implies there are four wheels which allows for a more stable drive. The four wheel walker is particularly desirable in environments where extra stability would be beneficial, such as a rural area, farm, or an area with extensive grass and dirt. The rollator with 4 wheels usually has an attached seat as well as a basket, which gives you more carrying space.
Light Weight
If it is important to you how much something weighs, and you need to move it physically over a long distance, you might consider purchasing a ‘light weight’ rollator. To reduce the weight, manufacturers use light weight steel alloys and miniaturize the parts of a rollator. A nice thing about these rollators is that they are 25% to 60% lighter than the competition. It is a fact that the lighter the load, the effort less effort you have to exert to move it or carry it. If you need a small and portable walker, or have trouble carrying much weight and get tired easily, then you should definitely consider a ‘light-weight’ rollator.
Bariatric
There are also bariatric varieties of the rollator. Just as is the case with the walker, bariatric rollators are more comfortable for those who weigh over 300 lbs.
Walker or Rollator: You Decide
When purchasing a walking aid it really is a matter of personal choice. If the Adult Walker suits your needs, then go for it. Adult Walkers are less expensive than rollators, and the wheeled model makes movement that much smoother. On the other hand, the rollator is the best option for you if you tire easily or have problems with strength. It may also be the best choice if you want a walking aid that is stylish, if you need to carry many items at once, or if you want sit down and rest whenever and wherever you please. If you simply want the smoothest rolling walking aid, choose a rollator.
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