Rollators
Maintain mobility in everyday life: Rollators help you to continue to participate in public and private life. There is the right rollator for different requirements.
Buying the right rollator
The classic rollator is the standard rollator. Its price makes it the most affordable walking aid of its kind. The models can be folded, have a handbrake on both sides with a locking function and fully rubberised wheels that are puncture-proof. The handles are made of non-slip rubber that is moulded to the anatomy of the hand. Another feature is the shopping basket, which is usually designed as a metal box with a handle and can be attached at the front. A seat is fitted over the crossbar, allowing you to take a break after long stretches of walking. When the handbrake is applied, the rollator is converted into a seat. The seat also has another function: it holds the tray. The disadvantage of standard rollators is their high weight of 13 kg and more. On the other hand, the cost of such a model is low, suitable as an entry-level model for indoor and outdoor use and robust.
Indoor rollators
These walking aids are much more delicate. They are only suitable for indoor use, are called indoor rollators and have a lightweight construction that requires barrier-free floors in a flat. Apart from rather low thresholds, these models cannot overcome any obstacles. This is not necessary, as they are designed for comfortable indoor use. They are easy to handle, the wheels are small and glide easily over laminate, tiles or carpets. Most models are foldable and have two brakes that can be locked to load the tray. A seat function is not provided here, nor is passive lighting. Which is also not necessary indoors. Due to their lightweight design, indoor rollators are very smooth-running and manoeuvrable. The cost of an indoor rollator is higher than that of a standard model.
Lightweight rollators
These are the all-rounders among rollators. They are extremely light, manoeuvrable and robust. They are mainly folded using a pull strap, which minimises the rollator's size. This means that a rollator weighing around 7 kg can also be used as a support when climbing stairs. The seat is made of a sturdy textile net and is very comfortable. The two hand brakes allow the lightweight rollator to be parked safely and used as a seat. Thanks to the smooth-running, large wheels, a lightweight rollator can easily overcome smaller obstacles such as kerbs or old town paving. Passive lighting is also part of the equipment. The frame construction is made of anodised aluminium, while higher-priced lightweight rollators are made of carbon fibre. The folding mechanism is smooth-running. The price of a lightweight rollator is in the upper segment of rollators. However, its utility value is extremely high, making it a worthwhile investment.
Special design: Delta wheel or Tri Walker
These rollators are stable tricycles. The advantage of this type of construction is that it is extremely easy to manoeuvre and has a very small turning circle. Thanks to the narrow front section, the Tri Walker reacts immediately to every steering movement. This model also has two brakes with a locking function and a basket for transporting shopping. The attachable tray is also included in the scope of delivery. Passive lighting means that the rollator can also be used in the evening. This model is suitable for users who want to be mobile and quick on the move. The special design requires a little more concentration when travelling than with four-wheeled rollators. The rollator can be slightly unstable on uneven terrain. The trailing rear wheels should also be taken into consideration. You should therefore not take corners too sharply. After a short period of familiarisation, this model is a sleek everyday companion, the sports car among rollators. The purchase costs are similar to those for lightweight models.
Buying additional accessories for rollators
Various optional accessories and spare parts can be ordered. A battery-powered lighting unit is practical for the darker months of the year. If you want to take your crutches or walking stick with you, you should have a stick holder fitted. For hot summer days, we recommend purchasing an attachable parasol or umbrella. This should have a swivelling arm so that it can be adjusted to suit the weather conditions. Drink holders for longer walks save you having to search for a water bottle in your bag, and a cushion on the seat makes resting comfortable. The costs for the individual accessories include installation.
Maintenance and care
One aspect of the daily use of rollators that should not be underestimated is regular maintenance and cleaning. A maintenance interval of six months is mandatory to ensure that the guarantee is not invalidated. This is also important for your personal safety! During the regular inspection, the hand brakes are checked for reliability. During daily use, the user often does not realise that their effectiveness has greatly diminished and unintentionally risks rolling away when sitting down or braking to a stop. The brakes are precisely adjusted again in the workshop. The ball bearings of the wheels require maintenance, and the rubber grips also tend to lose their grip. Slipping must be avoided and annual replacement is recommended. The tyres are puncture-proof, but the movement of the steering bearings should be checked.
