WHAT’S the difference between a rollater and a walker. Are you using it the right way?
Many of our readers have to use this means of assistance from time to time or even all the time in their daily living.
Either one gives us the confidence to go out to the shops, get around and meet people, or in some cases it gives us the ability to walk by ourselves, should we find the mere act of walking just too hard.
Generally speaking, in Australia this mode of transport is called a 4 wheel walker. or just a ‘walker’.
There are some with three wheels, mainly used by those who want something lighter and smaller to fold for storage purposes. These are considered a little dangerous due to stability issues, however they are fine if used correctly.
There are many styles of walkers with four wheels. Most have hand brakes on each handle, which can work the rear brakes of the walker through a cable if necessary.
Some have an adjustable seat and backrest for resting only, and most generally give you a choice of wheel sizes. Walkers are meant to be pushed and can be quite dangerous if sat upon while being pushed.
Some are from European countries, more fancy, some with different styles and shapes and often made of lighter materials which make them more expensive to buy.
There is also a “four point”walker, (no wheels) one that is used by some who have to use the device for taking the weight off a leg or have another weakness.
These are a quick fold up type, no seat, while some have two front wheels and are used by those very slow in their movements.
These are a generally very lightweight material. There are many others suitable for different human conditions, such as a reverse walker, knee walker, or a forearm support walker.
A walker should be sourced for your size, weight and height and a type that is beneficial in getting you around as safely as possible with the problem you may have.
Matching a walker to the recipient is a specialist job and an occupational therapist (OT) should be the one that you discuss your needs with.
There are a multitude of reasons to use a walker to get around.
You may have a neurological condition that affect your legs and coordination or a temporary condition that requires help in the early stages after hospital.
There are many things to know – the following are only a few.
If sitting down, place the walker about a step in front of you and apply both brakes, then push yourself up to a standing position.
Do not use the walker to pull yourself up, but rather as a support for when you find your balance, and step inside the frame, being careful not to lean forward or back too far.
When stepping over a curb, the walker goes first, then brake on, step over the curb, likewise going down a step – walker always goes first. Whenever you stop apply both brakes. Remember your safety is paramount.
Walkers can be dangerous if not used correctly. Stay safe!
