9 tips for the correct use of a rollator

The best Rollator It's no use if you can't handle it properly. But that's neither Rollator nor on its user - in most cases there is a lack of thorough instruction. Now you may be wondering what you need to consider when using a rollator. The answer is: a lot! This starts with setting the correct height and doesn't end with operating the brakes. In order to avoid accidents caused by inexperienced and incorrect use of the rollator, appropriate training is an important fall prevention measure.

The correct posture when walking

Walk in the walker and not behind it! Keeping the distance between your body and the rollator as small as possible ensures safety and prevents back pain.

Set the correct height

Let your arms hang down loosely. The handles should be set approximately at the height of your wrists.

Sitting on the walker

Turn between the handles of the rollator so that your back is facing the seat. Support yourself with your hands on the handles of the rollator, bend your upper body forward and sit down slowly. If your rollator has a back strap, you will not only sit more comfortably, but it will also prevent you from tipping backwards.

The correct height of the rollator

A rollator is not a chair, but a walking aid. You don't sit comfortably on a rollator for as long as you do on an armchair. The seat height of the rollator should be higher than that of a chair. The angle of the back of your knees should be approximately 100 - 120 degrees when you sit on the walker. This way you can stand up easily and safely.

Braking while walking

To prevent the rollator from rolling away on an incline, you can brake by pulling and holding the brake lever.

Locking the brake

If you want to sit down, you must first lock the brake. To do this, press the brake lever down with the heel of your hand until it clicks into place.

Overcoming curbs and door thresholds

Approach smaller obstacles at an angle and push the front wheels over the edge one after the other. If your rollator has a tipping aid, small pedals at the height of the rear wheels, use this. If the curb is still too high, it is best to look for a place where the edge of the sidewalk is lowered.

Folding and unfolding

Premium rollators are folded lengthwise. To do this, simply pull up an unlocking strap on the seat, press the carrying handles together and attach the safety bar to it. Practical tests have shown that most seniors are generally not able to fold and store the so-called horizontal folds independently.

Small tips to protect against theft and vandalism

Rollators are increasingly being stolen or damaged. However, unlike bicycles, rollators cannot be insured against the risk of simple theft through household contents insurance. You are only insured if your home is stolen as part of a burglary. However, if they are left in the hallway, in front of a shop or a doctor's office, the insurance will not pay. When buying a rollator, ask about premium rollator insurance, which you can purchase from medical supply stores.