Rollator vs Walker – which mobility aid is right for you? It depends on your needs and lifestyle.
In this article, I’ll break down the key differences between rollators and walkers. You’ll learn about their features, pros and cons, and how to choose the best one for you.
Rollator Vs Walker Differences:
Rollators and walkers have some key differences in design and functionality:
Rollator Vs Walker Comparison Table:
Let’s explore in more detail how these walking aids compare in terms of wheels, movement, accessories, and more:
1. Weight Bearing
Walkers are your go-to for weight-bearing support. They’re sturdy and can handle a lot of your body weight.
If you need to lean on something while walking, a walker is your best friend.
Rollators, on the other hand, aren’t meant for heavy leaning. Think of them as a helping hand rather than a crutch.
So if you have a restricted weight bearing status (partial weight bearing, touch weight bearing or non weight bearing) you must use a walker, not a rollator [1].
Just keep in mind, walkers usually support body weight of 250-350 pounds. If you need more weight capacity, look for a heavy duty bariatric model. They’re wider and stronger for extra support.
2. Wheels
Wheels vary by:
Number:
Rollators come with four wheels, making them super maneuverable to move around with.
Walkers, on the other hand, are a bit more grounded. They either have no wheels at all (just four legs) or just two fixed wheels at the front (this type are sometimes known as hybrid rolling walkers).
Think of them as your steady support system as they provide more stability [2].
If you need extra support while walking, a walker might be your best bet.
Please note: I generally separate three wheeled walkers from four wheel rollators as they don’t have a seat. But they are all wheels, so I see them as in between walkers and rollators.
Size:
Rollators typically have larger wheels (6-12 inches) than walkers (5 inches). This makes them better suited for outdoor use and on uneven surfaces [3].
You’ll find it easier to roll over small obstacles like cracks in sidewalks or grass.
Walker wheels are smaller and work best on smooth, flat surfaces. They’re not ideal for rough terrain or outdoor use.
Fixed vs swivelling:
Rollators have swiveling wheels, while walker wheels are fixed.
This makes rollators easier to maneuver around corners and in tight spaces – you can turn it with less effort.
But they can have a bit of a mind of their own and can try to get away from you unless you are fully in control of it.
Walkers will normally stay where they are and won’t roll away from you. They also provide more stability, which is good if your balance isn’t great.
However, the fixed wheels mean that you may need a slightly larger turning circle. Walkers with no wheels require you to lift the frame to change direction.
This might not be safe if your balance is poor because if the front of the frame lifts up and you’re not steady on your feet, you could fall backwards [4].
3. Brakes
Rollators come with handle brakes that give you more control as you move, allowing you to adjust your speed and stop quickly if needed.
This feature can be very helpful when you’re going downhill or need to pause for a moment.
Walkers, on the other hand, don’t have brakes. They rely on rubber tips on the legs to provide friction and stability.
But because they are not all wheels (like rollators), they won’t roll away from you. And you don’t have to worry about having the hand strength or reactions to apply the brakes quickly if necessary.
4. Seat
Rollators come with built-in seats, giving you a place to rest whenever you need it.
Walkers, on the other hand, don’t have seats. They’re all about keeping you moving.
Rollator seats are usually padded for extra comfort. Imagine having a cozy chair wherever you go! They even come with backrests for added support.
Think about your daily routine. Do you often need to stop and sit down regularly? If so, a rollator might be your new best friend.
With a rollator, you can take quick breaks without looking for a bench or chair. Great for longer trips or if you tire easily. You can walk, then sit, then walk again.
But if you don’t need to sit down frequently, you might prefer a walker which would be lighter weight and would encourage you to keep walking.
5. Indoors vs Outdoors
Rollators are great for outdoor use but can also be used indoors. With their larger wheels, you can easily roll over thresholds and navigate outdoor paths.
Want to enjoy nature walks? Some rollators come with extra-large wheels for all-terrain adventures.
Walkers, on the other hand, are actually designed for indoor use, not for going outside. The wheels and feet of your walker can can get worn down if you use them outdoors as they are not designed to withstand that kind of use.
Remember, your home layout matters too.
If you’ve got narrow hallways, a compact walker might be your best bet. But for open spaces, a rollator gives you more freedom to move around.
6. Weight
Rollators are typically heavier than walkers as they have more wheels and a built-in seat. So if you will need to lift your rollator by yourself, this is something to bear in mind.
Rollators tend to vary between 14-30 lbs (6-13kgs) in weight, whereas basic two wheeled walking frames without seats start at around 7 lbs (3 kgs).
If you’ll need to lift your rollator yourself but aren’t sure whether you will have enough arm strength, I suggest finding something at home that would be around 14 lbs/6kgs in weight and see if you can safely lift it (have someone with you for safety if needed).
Alternatively, choose a lighter weight rollator walker with free and easy returns and see how you get on.
The lightest rollator walker I recommend is the Carex Crosstour Rollator Walker at 14 lbs. There are a couple on the market at 10.6 and 12.6 lbs but they are poor quality and break easily.
7. Accessories
Rollators tend to come with more accessories than walkers.
Rollators normally come with a storage basket or bag built in, sometimes underneath the seat – handy for transporting personal items or groceries.
You can also often purchase extra accessories such as a drinks holder or a cane holder.
Sometimes you can also place a plate of food on the seat if you are moving from the kitchen to the living room (if it is safe to do so).
And obviously the best accessory of all is the seat itself for resting when out and about!
Walkers are simpler and typically don’t offer as many storage options or a seat.They don’t normally come with any accessories as standard, but you may be able to purchase a basic bag or tray to attach.
8. Handles
Rollator handles are generally more ergonomically designed than walker handles.
They are a moulded shape and angled for a natural hand position, and therefore are more comfortable to grip.
This can reduce strain on your wrists and hands.
Walker handles are usually straight and provide a solid grip but may not be as comfortable for long-term use.
Although, a choice between a hard PVC handle or a foam one is sometimes an option, depending on the walker.
And it is possible to purchase cushy foam handle grips to place on top of hard plastic walker handles.
Overall, though, if you have painful fingers, hands or wrists due to something like arthritis, you might find the handles of a rollator more comfortable.
9. Price
Rollators are usually more expensive than standard walkers because the added features and comfort come at a higher price point.
But prices of rollators do still vary significantly and start as low as $60. Check out my best rollator walker with seat recommendations to find one that suits you.
Standard walkers are more affordable, starting at around $35. If budget is a consideration, a walker might be the better option for you. See my best budget walker suggestions for taller people and shorter people here.
Rollator vs Walker Similarities
Rollators and walkers have lots of differences, but also some similarities:
1. Folding
Want a mobility aid that won’t take up too much space? Good news! Both rollators and walkers come in foldable versions. Great for travelling, getting it in the car and easy storage.
Rollators are generally designed to fold up easily, either front to back or side to side. A side to side folding rollator can sometimes be easier to fit into a small space such as the trunk of a car.
Not all walkers are foldable, but many of them are. This is one of my favourite foldable walkers.
2. Height Adjustable
Both rollators and walkers are height adjustable. Normally it’s just the handles that adjust in height, rather than any other parts of the walking aid.
Although occasionally you will find a rollator with a height adjustable seat, though this is uncommon. And really only necessary if you are sharing your rollator with someone of a different height to you.
The usual height range for standard walkers and rollators is from approximately 5 foot 2 inches up to 6 foot tall.
If you are shorter than 5 foot 2 or taller than 6 foot, check out my best walkers for short people and best walkers for tall people articles to find something that works for you.
So there you have it – your rollator vs walker comparison!
Rollator Vs Walker Key Takeaways
- Rollators have wheels and seats, while walkers have legs and offer more support
- Your choice depends on your mobility needs and where you’ll use it most
- Both aids can improve your independence and quality of life
Remember, your choice of rollator vs walker depends on your specific needs. Think about where you’ll use it most and what features matter to you. Your doctor or physical therapist can help you decide too!
Rollator Vs Walker Frequently Asked Questions
Choosing between a rollator and walker can be tricky. Let’s tackle some common questions to help you pick the right mobility aid for your needs.
What are the key differences between a rollator and a standard walker?
Rollators have wheels on all legs and handle brakes. Standard walkers don’t have wheels or only have wheels on the front legs. And don’t have brakes.
Rollators are easier to move but less stable. Walkers provide more support but are less maneuverable.
Rollators often have seats and storage baskets. Standard walkers are simpler and lighter.
Can you recommend the best type of walker for someone with balance issues?
For balance issues, a standard walker might be your best bet. It offers more stability and support than a rollator.
Look for a walker with sturdy, non-slip rubber tips on the back legs and two wheels at the front.
These are easier to control than a wheeled rollator and better than a walker with no wheels as you don’t have to lift it (and potentially lose your balance).
This is one of the wheeled walkers I recommend.
How does a walker with a seat differ from a regular walker, and who should consider one?
A walker with a seat, often called a rollator, has wheels and a built-in seat. Regular walkers don’t have seats.
Rollators are great if you need frequent rest breaks or have trouble standing for long periods.
Consider a rollator if you:
-Can walk but tire quickly
-Need a place to sit while out and about
-Want more features like storage baskets
For someone considering a rollator, what are the primary uses and benefits?
Rollators are versatile mobility aids. They’re great for indoor and outdoor use.
Key benefits include:
-Easier movement with wheels
-Built-in seat for resting
-Storage for personal items
-Better for longer distances
-More independence in daily activities
You might enjoy using a rollator for shopping trips, walks in the park, or moving around your home.
How often does Medicare cover the purchase of a new rollator or walker?
Medicare typically covers walkers and rollators every 5 years. But there’s no set timeframe. Coverage depends on your medical needs.
If your device breaks or your condition changes, you might qualify for a replacement sooner.
Always check with your healthcare provider and Medicare for the most up-to-date info.
Are there specific reasons why a rollator might not be an appropriate mobility device for certain individuals?
Rollators aren’t for everyone. They might not be suitable if you:
-Need lots of support to stand
-Have severe balance issues
-Can’t use hand brakes safely
-Live in a very small space with tight corners
Your healthcare provider can assess if a rollator is right for you.
They’ll look at your strength, balance, and home environment to make the best recommendation.
What to do now?
If you think a rollator might be the one for you, why not have a look at my best rollator walker with seat article for help choosing a suitable one.
If you think you might be better suited to a walker, check out my recommended walkers for those 4 foot 6 to 5 foot 5 inches tall and for those 5 foot 2 to 6 foot 4 inches tall.
