A 4-wheel rollator (also called 4-wheel rolling walker) is a walking aid designed to provide convenient mobility for individuals who require extra stability. 4 Wheeled Rolling Walkers provide the most stability and support while walking. 4 Wheeled Walkers are often slightly larger and heavier than 3 Wheeled Rollators. Most 4 Wheel Rollators are equipped with a flip down seat that offers a place to rest if you become fatigued. The innovative design of 4 wheel rollator allows you to walk independently with proper gait.
Perfect blend of style, comfort and affordability, these rollators glide easily over rough ground and provide great maneuverability and stability when walking for all age groups – adults and juniors.
4-wheel rollators can increase the mobility and comfort for anyone suffering from arthritis, lower and mid-back pain, sciatica and muscle weakness, decreased stamina, deteriorating balance, and many other afflictions, regardless of their age.
The frames of most 4-wheel rollators are made from lightweight aluminum resulting in a weight of 10 to 12 pounds for most standard models. Some heavy duty/bariatric rollator frames are made from steel and can weigh up to 17 pounds. They typically feature ergonomic hand grips and locking loop brakes for stability while standing. 8 inch wheels are standard and allow for easy rolling over most surfaces trouble free. 4 wheel rollators also feature a wide range of accessories like zippered carry pouch, baskets, mini lights and much more. Standard models have a weight capacity of 250-300 pounds while bariatric rollators have a weight capacity of up to 500 pounds. Exact specifications for each manufacturer may vary.
Four wheeled rollators have a wraparound frame which will support your weight, aide in maintaining your balance and allow you to walk with your natural gait. The wheels on the frame make it easier to move forward than a regular walker, and the brakes give you total control when you need to stop. Most rollators also feature a seat, which lets you take breaks before you go farther.
A rollator or rolling walker is simply a walker with wheels and brakes. A rollator combines a walking frame with wheels. So instead of lifting the walker to move forward, the user simply pushes the rollator forward to move. The rollator makes walking easy, supportive, stable and safe. A rollator is ideal for users who can walk but need a little assistance with balance.
The main factors you should consider before choosing a rollator model are:
Your height: Check which rollator has the ideal height for you as the rollator’s height directly affects your posture and gait
Your weight: It is vital to make sure that the weight capacity of the rollator is higher than your body weight
How stable you are: If you require additional support then it is of upmost importance that you choose a rollator which offers a lot of positioning options.
Special limitations: If you have any specific medical condition, it is advisable to choose a rollator which has a lot of options and accessories.
There are many parameters which you should keep in mind when buying a rollator. The deciding parameters are:
Frame Type: Rollator frames are generally made up of either steel or aluminum. Steel rollator frames are stronger and heavier than aluminum and are used to make rollators with higher weight capacities. On the other hand, aluminum rollator frames are lighter and easily maneuverable making them easy to push forward. Aluminum frames generally have a weight capacity of less than 250 pounds.
Number of Wheels: Rollators are available in 3 wheeled and 4 wheeled configurations. 3-wheeled rollators are lighter and more maneuverable around tight corners and in small spaces. 4 wheeled rollators are more stable and are easier to push.
Wheel Size: Rollators with wheel size of 6” or more are suitable if you plan to spend a lot of time outdoors and on uneven surfaces. Rollators with wheel size of 5” and less are designed for indoor use on flat surfaces.
Height Adjustment: It is always better to choose a model that allows some height adjustment. The height of the frame and the handles should be adjustable according to your height. Height adjustment plays a bigger role if you are planning to buy a rollator for your child. Rollators with a greater range of adjustment are suitable for children as the rollator can be made to “grow” with your child to ensure comfort and proper fit.
Braking System:The brake levers should be appropriately responsive and easy to reach. There are many types of braking systems which can be used with rollators. Pressure brakes can be applied when someone exerts weight or leans on the frame. Cable brakes can be applied when the user squeezes the brake levers with both hands. There are also one-handed cable brake systems available which are suitable for users with an amputated arm. Reverse braking systems keep the rollator's brakes locked at all times unless manually released by squeezing the brake handles.
