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One of the most significant advantages of a rollator walker is the potential for increased safety and support it provides to seniors and all those with mobility issues. Nevertheless, if not used correctly, the rollator can increase the possibility of falling and injury. Here are some significant safety errors many people make while using rollators and how to avoid them:
1. Using an improperly sized rollator
One of the worst mistakes anybody can make is to use a too-big or too-small rollator. Handles should be adjusted to a height that leaves them level with your wrists when standing inside the walker with your arms at your sides. The height of your seat matters also; it should be high enough to let one sit comfortably with one’s feet flat on the floor. An improperly fitted rollator will throw your balance off and even your posture.
2. Leaning on the rollator
Try not to be tempted into putting your full weight on the rollator by leaning or pushing down on the handles. The rollator is meant to give light support and stability, not to carry your whole body weight. This may tip or roll the rollator unexpectedly away from you. Walk upright with the rollator closed to your body for optimum stability.
3. Leaving the brakes unlocked
Use the brakes on your rollator every time that you are going to sit down in the seat. One of the most common causes of falls is the failure to lock the brakes while sitting or standing up as the rollator may roll out from under you. Get in the habit of locking the brakes each time you stop your rollator to park it and sit.
4. Improper hand positioning
Keep your fingers lightly around the handles as you walk so that you can grab them easily should you need to. You shouldn’t grasp these handles too tightly or put your hands on top of the brakes because that will make it much more difficult to stop the rollator in an emergency. Holding the handles with your palms resting on top also promotes leaning and poor posture.
5. Navigating uneven terrain
Be very careful outdoors or traveling over uneven surfaces with your rollator. Most rollators are designed for use on flat smooth surfaces. Avoid grass, sand, gravel, or broken pavement if at all possible. If you have to go up a curb or over a threshold to a doorway, tip the front wheels of the rollator so that it clears the obstacle rather than pushing or ramming it through.
6. Ignoring maintenance
Like any other mobility equipment, rollators need periodic servicing to ensure they continue running safely. Check your rollator regularly for loose screws, worn-out brakes, wobbly wheels, or damaged parts. Have any issues solved by a competent technician as soon as possible. Worn-out rubber tips on the back legs can make a rollator slip. Replace them if they get damaged or worn down.
7. Not asking for help
Don’t be afraid to ask for help or instruction when first using your rollator. Ask your caregiver, family member, or physical therapist to instruct you on proper techniques and observe you to ensure you are safely using the rollator. Finally, consult your doctor or PT if you have an inability to adjust to using a rollator or have pain during or directly after its use.
Knowing these common mistakes and how to use your rollator can help ensure that you enjoy enhanced mobility with a reduced risk of falling or other injuries. A little practice, coupled with the following safety tips, will go a long way toward keeping you on the go with the aid of a rollator, well into your golden years of active independence.