Safety and home
Rollator
A rollator is a walking aid with three or four wheels, hand brakes and often a built-in seat. It rolls more smoothly than a basic walker. Medicare says Part B covers walkers, including rollators if you are eligible. It suits people who can walk but need support and a place to rest.
Why it matters for your family
A rollator suits people who can walk but tire easily. The seat gives a place to rest. It also needs more balance and hand strength than a basic walker, because it rolls and must be braked. A person with weak grip or severe balance problems may be safer with a standard walker. Medicare says it covers rollators if you are eligible, and you pay a share after the deductible. A common mistake is to assume it is safe on every surface. Thick carpet and curbs can be hard. Ask a doctor or physical therapist which device fits. Teach the person to lock the brakes before sitting.
Source: medicare.gov
Read more: Personal and advanced care
Related terms
- WalkerA walker is a frame with four legs that a person grips to steady themselves while walking.
- WheelchairA wheelchair is a chair on wheels that lets a person move when walking is hard or unsafe.
- Mobility assistanceMobility assistance is help with moving around, such as standing up, walking, using stairs, and getting in and out of a bed, chair, or car.
- Fall preventionFall prevention is the set of steps that lower the chance an older adult will fall.
- AmbulationAmbulation means walking from place to place, with or without a cane, walker, or help from another person.
- Fall riskFall risk is the chance that a person will fall and be hurt.
