Rollator Walker FAQs: Caregivers’ Most Common Questions Answered

Providing care to someone with mobility challenges involves knowing how to keep them safe as they go about their daily routine. 

If the person you care for has impairments in any of the following, knowing whether or not a rollator walker is appropriate for them is important:

• Strength
• Endurance
• Balance

In this article, we’ll explore common questions regarding the features of a rollator walker and look at examples of individuals who would most benefit from its use. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Let’s review 6 of the most frequently asked questions about rollator walkers. 

Question 1: What Is A Rollator Walker? 

A rollator walker, or a “4 wheeled walker”, is a mobility aid with large wheels, adjustable handlebars, and a seat that provides support when someone is walking around. Because there are four wheels, it glides easily as the user pushes it, and it has a built-in seat to rest in when someone gets tired. 

There are different types of rollator walkers: 

• Classic rollator walker. This is a typical type of rollator with four large wheels, a comfortable padded seat, and handlebars with breaks. 
• Lightweight rollator walker. Some rollator walkers, like a carbon ultralight rollator, are made of lightweight material, making them lighter to lift and easier to transport. 
• Three-wheeled walker. Also known as a “tri walker,” this type of walker has three wheels and brakes. It’s more compact and may be easier to maneuver in small places, but it usually doesn’t have a seat.
• Upright rollator. This rollator has extended handles that elevate to allow the user to rest their elbows on a platform and hold on. This rollator may be used for someone with poor posture and difficulty remaining fully upright.

Question 2: What Are The Important Features?

There are some key rollator accessories to be aware of if the person you care for plans to use this mobility aid. These include: 

• Three or four large wheels make it easy to push and help navigate the community.
• Height adjustable handles with a brake on each side. This allows the height of the handlebars to be adjusted to best fit the user.  
• A padded seat serves as a comfortable spot to rest and take a break (as long as the user remembers to engage the brakes before sitting down!).
• A storage basket to put personal belongings like a purse or shopping bag. 

Question 3: How Portable Is A Rollator Walker? 

Rollator walkers are generally bigger and more cumbersome than traditional walkers. Despite this, many do fold up to a more compact position. Depending on the model, you may have to pull a strap or push a knob or button to make it collapse. 

Question 4: Who Is It Most Appropriate For? 

Rollator walkers are most appropriate for individuals with good leg strength but need extra support for balance or a place to sit because they get tired quickly. 

Here are some examples of individuals who would benefit from using a rollator: 

• Carl has COPD and gets winded easily. It’s hard for him to walk long distances without needing a break. A rollator is perfect for him because he can walk with it in the community and rest on the padded seat. 

• Joanne has Parkinson’s disease, which is causing her balance problems. A rollator walker can provide her with a little extra support to help her prevent falls. 

• Augie has pulmonary fibrosis and must use portable oxygen. A rollator is a perfect mobility aid because it gives him a place to put his oxygen tank while walking around the community. 

Question 5: How Do You Safely Use A Rollator Walker?

There are some important safety features to remember when using a rollator walker: 

• Always engage the brakes before you use the walker to help you stand up.
• Before you start walking, unlock the brakes to be sure it glides with you.
• Push the rollator against the wall and engage the brakes before you turn and sit on the padded seat.
• Be sure the arms are adjusted to the best height to facilitate upright posture. 
• Don’t place all your body weight on the handles because the walker could slide out from under you and cause a fall. 

Question 6: What Is The Best Way To Care For It?

Taking good care of a rollator walker will prolong its life and allow your loved one to use it longer. Here are some tips to best care for a rollator: 

• Wipe down the walker with soap and water once a week. Dry thoroughly.
• Check the brakes to ensure they still engage properly and keep the walker from moving.
• Ensure the wheels remain intact and all four wheels remain on the ground when using the walker. 
• Follow up with the manufacturer if you notice any missing pieces or have a repair request. 

To learn more about the features of rollator walkers and other walking aids, check if you have free access to Trualta’s learning library.

References

1. Restore Mobility. (n.d.). Rollator FAQ. Restore Mobility. Retrieved February 9, 2025, from https://www.restoremobility.com/blogs/mobility/rollator-faq?srsltid=AfmBOooHZhYCQoyTfKyNcMj66NiljdcaaqKUJB1gpiIHO-RHd5Shr8G9
2. VociC. (n.d.). How to fold a rollator walker in 3 easy steps. VociC. Retrieved February 9, 2025, from https://vocic.com/blogs/news-and-blogs/how-to-fold-a-rollator-walker-in-3-easy-steps?srsltid=AfmBOopm2KTiEZZgU46sXW3qC10FE9x8r8pmpfrhEDMKzjHgKHueqK7I
3. EZ Walker Rollators. (n.d.). A guide to rolling walker maintenance and parts. EZ Walker Rollators. Retrieved February 9, 2025, from https://www.ezwalkerrollators.com/blog/post/a-guide-to-rolling-walker-maintenance-and-parts/?srsltid=AfmBOoo5lftUMaOnVpALLGkGurD7ca8keCwlST1OSgAuLXqUV0lD-pOy
4. Mayo Clinic. (2023, November 3). Walker. Mayo Clinic. Retrieved February 9, 2025, from https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/healthy-aging/in-depth/walker/art-20546805