rollator (4 wheel walker)

Introduction

Device similar to walker, but has 4 wheels & brakes. Some but not all have seats for patients to rest.

Indications

• higher functioning patients who walk long distances & require minimal weight-bearing
• cardiopulmonary disease
• peripheral neuropathy with balance difficulty
• promotes forward position, prevents backward falls

Contraindications

• cognitive impairment*

* if a rollator is not appropriate because of cognitive impairment, a straight cane would be the next best choice

Advantages

• broad base of support
• speedier than other walkers
• good for outside walking because of large wheels
• has seat for resting

Disadvantages

• higher fall risk for patients who need walker to bear weight
• requires coordination because of brakes
• not suitable for cognitively-impaired patients

More general terms

• walker