Thank you so much for these videos! I am on my 4th Rollator, am very small, and have fallen many times because nobody cared enough to teach me how to use them. I appreciate all you do for us!
@@janmclain6301 I’m so sorry no one was willing to show you how to use your rollator. People nowadays just don’t know how to give good customer service nowadays. It’s just a job and they could care less
A PT guy came to my house today to " assess" me, 3 weeks out of ostomy surgery and on oxygen, after they discovered my o2 saturation was 83% before surgery. I showed him that i can't roll my rollator thru my house AND wheel my oxygen tank on a cart at the same time. I dont have enough hands to control both at once. His calluous reply stunned me, for its dangerousness: " oh, just pick your tank up out of its cart and lay it across the top of your rollator, sideways" !!!!!!!!! First, who said i can lift my tank? Not bloody likely, kid! Second, the tank is too long to fit safely across my rollator to go down my hall and thru a 28 inch 1957 doorway. Third, most impossibly and unsafely, there's nothing to anchor the tank to the frame! On a slope, a step, a curb, or a tilt, it'll either slide right off ---heavily--or its weight, even with brakes on, will send the rollator moving away, uncontrolled! And finally, how am i supposed to sit on the seat to rest, with a tank of oxygen resting- unsecured- across the x framing, and obstructing my seat????? !!!!!! If i was a lawyer, i'd sue his employer, for dispensing such flippant, dangerous, irresponsible advice ! I'm pressing medicare to let me have a portable o2 concentrator i can wear on a crossbody belt, Hands free, so i can operate my rollator as its designed to be used. I slowed my rollater down by wrapping layers of rubber electrical tape around the brake pieces that press against the back wheels. The friction slows the whole device, giving me resistance, so it doesnt fly away from me as i walk. The brakes still work as designed, but closing the gap between the tire and the contact is far safer for me, so i dont zing forward, uncontrolled.
Your demonstration of points #4 about not pushing someone sitting in the rollator is spot on to show what can happen. But it must have really hurt just to demonstrate that point when you fell.
I learned the hard way that the rollator casters can move under the seat a long way and severely change the center of gravity which makes them tip over that way very easily. Knowing about what happened to me, I'd rather have them fixed and not pivot around. I am willing to scooch the thing side ways to navigate it, rather than have the wheels caster around and change the center of gravity like they do. Also Too: When it goes over, it goes quickly. Out at my mailbox at the end of my driveway, I left my rollator and got my mail out of the box. Then I backed into the rollator and sat down but didn't realize the casters had pivoted inward so far under me. With just the little incline my driveway has towards the street and the casters pivoting under me it changed the center of gravity and tipped over backward like it was meant to. I have an issue with Vestibular neuritis or labyrinthitis which makes me dizzy and I've been trying to relearn balance for 10yrs. When I sat down onto the rollator, it just tipped right over backward. I couldn't tell it was even going anywhere due to my lack of sense of balance. I momentarily thought it was rolling a little, but within a millisecond I went all the way over and smacked my head on the pavement. REALLY HARD. I only bled a little but it was lightly raining so what blood there was ran all over the place quickly. I'm lucky none of my neighbors were looking because I'm sure they would have called 911. And it took me about 5 minutes to figure out what happened, gain some sense of balance and figure out how to get up. I had blood running down my face and neck so I really looked bad. I thanked God for giving me such a strong skull, and keeping me alive. I was more angry about the stupidity of the fall than I was about the severe headache. I will say it knocked enough sense into my head that I will never ever make that mistake again. Not the best way to learn, but very impactful. (pun intended) Whenever I sit on that thing, it gets all of my "undivided" attention. Thanks for the vid and I hope my story will lend a hand to your viewers. Rollators are great and they help tremendously, but they are far more dangerous than the directions warn about. ben/ michigan
Ben, Thank you for taking the time to share your story. I hope that your balance is improving some. Vestibular is one of my favorite fields of study and practice but as you know, it's hard work and takes a long time to retrain the brain in it's balance centers. Keep working at it and stay safe and independent 🙂
This may have already been mention but if not.... When I got my Rollator the sales person went through all of the things you mentioned but also took me out to the sidewalk use a sidewalk ramp cutout. This might be standard practice but it was the part that impressed me most both because I will be using the cutouts and it gave me a good idea how quickly the rollator can speed up even on slight slope.
That's great that you got to experience how quick they can take off with someone close by with you. I wish that could be the case for many more people. Thank you for sharing 🙂
Great video! I had figured out some of your tips on my own, but I get complacent, so this video is a good reminder of the need to be mindful. I especially appreciated your guidelines for getting up a step. One problem I encounter frequently is having two steps into a building, especially with no railings. I just had to maneuver that recently and it was scary. I had my daughter with me and I decided that I would never tackle 2 steps by myself. Anyway, thanks for all your videos. They've been a tremendous help for me and have given me a lot more confidence in getting around with my rollator.
Thank you for your encouragement. The 2 steps is an issue for sure, especially if the first step isn't deep enough to put the rollator on. A second person is the safest option for sure here. Stay safe and independent 🙂
I have the Drive F-22 that I got from the VA. This is my second Rollator. I need a new one again. I wear the brakes out after several years. I use mine only in the house. I use my service dog when I go out. No one from the VA gave me lessons on using it. They simply just gave it to me.
I like the Drive F-22. That's a great point about checking the brakes. Loose brakes can be a sure way to end up falling if they are needed and not in good working order. Thank you for sharing and I'm glad you're able to hopefully learn some helpful tips and lessons here. Have a great day and stay safe and independent. 🙂
I have an issue with a point you made. When you put the Rollator partly on the garden soil, I was aghast. If the soil is moist your weight could cause it to sink into that soil and tip you over. I've recently had knee replacement surgery being nearly wheelchair bound for 3 years prior. While using the wheelchair I have grounded out when detouring off a cement walking path to avoid a group of people (Don't ya just hate persons oblivious to their surroundings?). If the soil is too damp it will cause wheels to bog down into it. Likewise, a Rollator that is positioned onto damp soil will be unforgiving. Sinky, tippy, you go oopppsie BOWWG. I really appreciate all your videos. As I transition back to a walker again, I'm finding them invaluable, thank you.
Yes you are correct. If the soil is moist and not packed, it can certainly sink down in, tipping the walker forward. That's a great clarification. Thank you for sharing. 🙂
@@yourPTguy THANK YOU I just BT my $200 roller 5* just made it MDW > BNA and Booked 3 trips. HOME for 2.3 years . You saved my life un happy FOREVER.. THANK YOU 🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰
Hello fro nYc. I am educating myself as I think about transitioning. I am using shopping cart(weighted) and cane for years. Condition 77f, OPM's 35+ yrs
Thanks for your helpful video. I upgraded from a pair of offset handled small base quad canes to a rolling walker several years ago. I still use the canes sometimes, mostly in tight spaces. Regarding bending or leaning too far over while using the walker, it's most often caused by using a walker that is to narrow for the user and/or having the handles set too low. If your walker is too narrow for you to walk BETWEEN the legs of the walker, or you have the handles set too low, you will end up bending over to maintain your grip on the handles. This position is bad for your body. It also reduces your control of the walker, putting you at risk of a fall, and the walker is at risk of taking off without you. When using a walker, do your homework! I did. I bought the only model I could find at the time that was sized for short, wide people. It's a Nova Mini Mack, and it has been a big help to me. ❤ I like reverse humor, so I named it Warp 9. 😂 if you absolutely must sit down on a slope, put at least 2 wheels of the walker on the grass, and also park sideways, with the wheels also turned sideways to the slope. However, you are best off getting off the slope before sitting down, and don't forget to back the walker up to something before you lock the brakes and sit down. I call the locking brakes parking brakes. I call the non locking, pressure brakes intermittent brakes.
Thank you all of your tips were great because I have been using a Rollator for about two years but I never thought about putting it up against a solid like wall or something along that line or going up and down the stairs and locking the brakes so thank you very much
SUV's are definitely more challenging to get them into than cars for sure. The height of the frame of the SUV usually requires more lifting. One thing that may be helpful though to assist with it not opening up on you when you try to get it in the SUV is a Velcro strap that you can keep the walker together when it's folded. I show how that helps in my other walker video on how to get walkers into cars easier here: ua-cam.com/video/j0gMncSlX2Y/v-deo.html While the video can show you that Velcro strap tip, there's no way around the fact that SUV's usually will require a little bit more lifting than the cars unfortunately. But the best thing about SUVs is that they're often easier to get our bodies in and out of than lower cars 🙂 Keep striving to stay safe and independent! 🙂
I have 2 walkers. 1 is a wide body model made of steel and weighs 34 lbs. I use it around my apartment building, the park next door, and going to the senior center that is on the other side of the park. It never gets folded up. The second one is a Drive Nitro Duet that is made if aluminum and weighs just 17 lbs. It folds side to side and has a catch to help keep it folded (it does NOT lock closed). I pick it up rotating it 90 degrees so the back wheels roll right in on the back seat.
I have the same issue. I have a scooter lift on my 4 Runner. There is a bar between me and the bumper that sticks out several inches. I have to lift it over the bar to get it in. Most of my spine is fused which is a challenge in and of its self. I wish Rollators were just a few lbs lighter.
Yes! I'm so glad the video helped. Also, as the years go on, be sure to check how tight or loose the brakes are. They tend to loosen up some over the months and years. Stay safe and independent 🙂
Thank you for the tips. What I would do getting up a step is hold the pillar or some other stable point with one hand and lift, swing the rollator over with the other hand
My tip, not only for people using rollators but also people using canes or crutches -- if you're going through a door with a push bar and there are people around you, do not lean over the top of your Walker or cane and walking forward push the bar to open the door. This puts you at the mercy of Samaritan Terrorists, who as we know are always in a hurry and want you to move faster. Someone might reach from behind you and push the door open over your shoulder while you are leaning against the door opening it. Their sudden push opening the door is more than enough to make you fall. It's much safer to back into the door, pushing it open with your backside. You might still encounter STs trying to "help" you rush through the door unsafely, but they won't be able to reach over you and suddenly push the door open. There's a small chance an ST might with no warning pull the door open from behind, but in that case you'll still have most of your body weight centered over your assistive device.
I am trying like crazy to avoid getting wc. ( have ms 35+ yrs) I have been using small shopping cart pushed with one hand, cane in other hand. Of course own a 3 wheel rollator and also now defunct( battery) mobile device. Which I just kept chgd for over 5 yrs. Now battery apparently done. Reason I find shopping cart so useful..can do laundry, shop and it can hold most anything. Which a rollator Basket cannot. Any suggestions? Ty
Video very helpful , I was in a hospital parking.g lot and the road was straight and then a sharp inclineafter a pathway , my front wheels got stuck and I almost went right over the walker , very scary !
@@yourPTguyThanks. I’m a PT too. I think your video is great. I have recently trying to explain limitations of brakes on rollator. Video is better than talk any day. There is a perception the brakes are not working 1. on steep slopes and 2. when brakes are “locked “ on transit bus as bus driver slams on brakes & walker takes off perhaps you could demo that one too (could be used for transit bus driver training as well) 😮 sadly in vancouver BC people don’t clear sidewalks in snow so rollators are not safe when we have snow, ice. 😢
I was watching your video about using a Rollator on steps. I learned the hard way. While going to my son's house on Christmas day 2022, I attempted to go up a step walking on a homemade ramp my son made, that unknown to me was slippery (double trouble). Needless to say, I fell backwards fracturing my neck and my back, not bad enough to require surgery, but painful nonetheless. To this day (2 years later) I am still suffering from that fall. Wish I had seen your videos back then. Hindsight is always 20/20.
Great tips. I especially liked tge one about going up a step: putting the front wheels up, stepping closer to the step, braking, and lifting the back wheels before stepping up. (I presume going down works the same, but requires more care.) I have a friend wh does the 4-wheel lift with no braking and it freaks me out every time she does it! Useful with the simplest to fanciest walker.
Going up a curb or single step I walk it up. I bring it to the curb and lift up one wheel then the other then push forward, brake and step up and on my way
Thanks for all of the tips, I agree. I have a Drive F-22 provided to me by the VA. I have fallen several times before getting mine. Anytime I am outside, I always have my Life Alert 'go anywhere' with me. If alone my wife is unable to help me up so she just pushed the button and the EMT's are on the way to help. The biggest problem for me was not keeping my elbows next to me. Thanks, JB
The Drive F-22 is nice. Excellent idea for the Life Alert go anywhere. They can be a lifesaver for sure. If anyone is ever looking into these safety and fall alert systems, I always try to recommend the ones that have GPS and also fall detection which alerts EMTs if a fall has occurred and the person is unable to hit the button for any reason (a broken bone or is unconscious). Many times someone won't be able to actually press the button so that's why it's such a valuable tool. Thank you for sharing your tips. 🙂
I use a walker but thought this tip may be helpful. I go to a place several times/week where there’s an incline between the bldg and the parking lot. If I take it slow and zigzag back and forth it keeps me from speeding up.
I used a rollover was walking in a park with no sidewalks in a nearby town was hard pushing and several ditches had to walk through.i didn't know how to use the breaks or step up on a porch locking the brakes and walking up onto second step and on to porch .thank you for video. My mom went to a wedding reception and brother,sister in law pulled her by the back bar in grass while keeping her on the walker .it was hard but made it to the side walk .was a outside wedding . Ty for the videos . Nexttime will know how to do the ways to best get these tips to get the job done in walking with rollator. Bobbie Dietrich.
13:03 I have a walker just like the one in your video. I rely on public transport buses to get around my neighbourhood. What is the correct way to get on and off the bus with a walker?
Ask for the wheelchair ramp to be lowered for you, both embarking and debarking. If they balk, ask if they want a class action lawsuit for violating the FEDERAL ADA( americans w disabilities act)?.
I'm trying to do a few of my own designs, using platforms I modify or use for parts. I think lack of public seating, public benches, seating in retail stores, COVID, has caused more people to bring their own seat with them. And people may get a false sense of security from rollators or wheeled walkers. Promotional blogs posing as informative articals may mislead the public. The medical literature has at leeast a few articles which say the engineering and quality of manufacture of the devices needs to be improved. I think manufacturing standards should be established which include a minimum diameter and type for wheels, breaks that are effective at preventing roll, wheel chucks, and cables should be close to the frame to prevent entanglements. Many people sit on the wleeled walkers and look over their shoulder, sometimes, as they propel themselves backward with their feet using their quadriceps.This is obviously a dangerous risk of the device tipping and the person geting a dead, neck or back injury. It would be good if manufacters built for people who will also need the option to safely use the wheeled walker as a transport seat, which is most everyone using them. Making the backrest reeversable and adding footrests, or a seat which could be shifted could help and enable the weight distribution to be safer. It would be good to know more about exactly why people are using these devices. For convienant seating, balance, off loading weight, injury rehab, stroke rehab, cardiac rehab or post myocardial infarction, neurological disorders, or other reasons. I'm guessing much of it is due to a lack of public seating since municipalities have been removing public benches on streets and parks for years. The fatigue people experiance and DIY bring your own seating is bad for public health and presents thousands of wheeled walker related falls in emergency departments.
I have my rollator set REALLY high. I know the handlebars should come about wrist height. But I slump. The exact thing my doctor warned me of before kyphoplasty. By setting the rollator at about the height of the bottom of my rib cage…I stand up and I don’t get nearly as tired. I won’t swear that it’ll work for everyone. It works for me.
Thank you for all of your suggestions on the Rollator I have one and I’d like to know how it would be the easiest way to go up stairs three of them I’m outside
My tip: When you come to a standstill at a door sill or pavement crack-any minor impediment, really-do a little side jiggle to get one front wheel over, then straighten to get the other front wheel over. The Elenkers (like the tall one in your videos) even have a little foot jack in back to give added leverage. Much easier than fighting both stubborn wheels at once.
I'll be 90 in a few days and I've had my rollator duet combination Walker and wheelchair for 2 years and I've never had a problem and I never was instructed how to use it I just use common sense. The thing I like about it it turns on a dime in my narrow hallway going to the bathroom I can go straight on down the hallway and when I'm ready to go back I can turn it around it's just swivels around in a very small space or other walkers cannot do that and if I need a wheelchair put the pedals down and my daughter pushes me.
Happy almost 90th birthday!! 🎉🎉 🙂 I'm glad that the wheelchair/walker combo is working nicely. I'm sure your daughter is very happy to be able to celebrate with you such an achievement. Stay safe and enjoy that birthday! There's lots of wisdom in those 90 years I'm sure.
Continuing From Below my daughter pushes me then if it's a short distance and she's tired then I get up put the pedals back up and I walk again and so on and so forth back and forth .
Thank you I'm much safer than in a car can't drive anymore I do the use all your safety tips and always feel better when I use my Walker the right way thanks again
I have had problems with the edge of the road! My street has a high crown to and both my walkers roll so easily I need to pay attention to the grass on the side of the road!
Excellent question! I'll film a video showing the following, but before that, here's the gist: When you stand up as tall as you can with one or both arms down at your side, the handle height should come to roughly about the location of your wrist. Then, when you now go to grab the handle, there will be just a slight bend in your elbow (not too straight, not too bent, just slight- when writing this it reminds me of Goldilocks! 🙂) But how do you get the handle up and down? Each Rollator is a little bit different depending on your make and model but in general, if you look down the bar from the handle, there is usually a knob on the outside that can be twisted to the left to loosen up. This knob has a screw that loosens up when you twist it to the left. Be careful when you begin loosening it up because the there is often a plastic piece (or two) and/or a metal piece on inside that the knob and screw tightens in to. Once you have the knob and screw and the plastic/metal piece out, you can raise or lower the height to where your wrist is. After you have the right spot, you place the knob and screw through the hole of the Rollator frame and it's handle bar, and then tighten down with the plastic and/or metal piece. Make sure it's good and snug. You can repeat the process on the other side. With that said however, I do think it's easier to "see" it done rather than read how to do it. Thank you for the suggestion on another helpful video. I'll work on getting this one out soon. If you haven't already, be sure to click "Subscribe" and also the little "Bell" icon that will alert you when future videos come out if you'd like to stay up to date. Stay safe and independent 🙂
Very good helpful information. The person who assembled and delivered it made the handle too low, I made it higher but not totally satisfied with the height. What's the proper way to adjust the height, a reply would be much appreciated.
Excellent question. Typically, you want to have just a slight bend at the elbow. When someone is standing upright with the walker close, the handle should come to (or just a bit higher) than the person's wrist with the arm dropped at the side. You can check out my video that shows what I'm talking about here: ua-cam.com/video/Ofq8Vfh-qu0/v-deo.html The video is for the standard two-wheeled walker but the same concept applies. Bonus - My daughter helped me on this one too which was fun.
What about backing up to get onto a step. Keep the roll at or flat, step up then holding onto roll at or lift back wheels then front wheels up onto the step?
Due to a weak back I tend to lean forward. I use my rollator or a grocery cart to help me stand up. Like you were standing after rolling down the hill. so I am at risk for what you warned about.
Thanks for sharing. Some people need to lean forward due to spinal stenosis or back pain to relieve some of their pain. While it does place someone more at risk of tripping, as long as the person is aware of it, they can be more alert and not be taken off guard.
Do you have any advice on getting in and out of a bathtub? I have a strong bar around the back and inside and a movable bar that clamps on to the outside but they are not enough for me. The tub is too narrow to turn around to get on my knees, so I don't dare take a bath.
Thanks for the question. I'll see if I can do a video here about getting in and out of a bathtub. Just some preliminary suggestions here though: Have you ever looked into a bathbench? Bathbenches are different than shower chairs in that 2 legs stay out of the tub and 2 legs stay inside. That way, you can sit down on it and slide into the tub while sitting. Another way that some people feel a little bit more at ease is holding onto a vertical grab bar that is at the entrance to the tub, with 2 hands, and then the person side steps into (and out of) the tub instead of going forward. I'll see what I can do to put some together soon. Bathrooms are one of the primary places falls occur. Stay safe and independent 🙂
Great video -- what if you have to go up/down more than 2 steps and have your walker? Any tips for when you're not using the walker, and there is no handrail to hold onto when using steps? Appreciate any advice.
Thank you for your encouragement. Steps and walkers are very challenging. If you have a regular 2-wheeled rolling walker without the seat, it's a little bit more manageable (but still hard). You can find my video on getting up and down stairs using that kind of walker here: ua-cam.com/video/lJbUJrmXq3U/v-deo.html But as for Rollators, because they often don't fold up the same, it can be very challenging. The best case is obviously if you have another person to help bring the walker down or up the stairs and then use either a railing, cane, or another person's arm or a combination of them, to get safely up and down steps. But as you said, there's not always a railing, a cane, or even another person to help. And each step is different because of the height and depth and it's always best to have a physical therapist or other healthcare worker help you navigate those specific steps. When there's no handrail to hold onto, that makes it even more difficult. This is where a cane or two can be also very helpful. I know some people even put a "cane holder" or two on their walkers. And if you're using a hurrycane, that one can actually fold up and fit underneath the rollator seat. I'd be curious to hear from others in regards to this scenario. Ultimately though, a local physical therapist would be great to help navigate that scenario.
I have a rollator, which is great. However, my main problem is that people keep trying to grab it, or even do grab it by the front bar in attempt to pull me, particularly when I am getting on or off a bus. I protest. They almost invariably say they are trying to help. I have had a bus driver get extremely angry at me when he had already grabbed it and I said No! I was getting off the bus the other day and a complete stranger grabbed the walking stick which was clipped to the side, and pulled it by that. The walking stick detached in his hands., fortunately, as if he had pulled on the walker from the side he would have tipped it as I was getting off. I didn't see him coming, or expect it, as it was getting dark, and he was to my right, not in front of me. It is rare for people to ask me first, to say, May I help you? I have been asked only once.. They usually attempt to grab without saying anything. I am a woman, 5'3" and not overweight. I don't think they do it to bigger people. It is a huge problem to me, that I am not sure how to deal with. Does anyone have any ideas on how I can successfully deal with this?
Um...attach an airhorn, like fans blow at sports events! To shock em into stopping? Put a signal orange tape sign across your bar that says DO NOT TOUCH! ???
@@janetpschwartz8991 Thank you for your thoughtful reply. It usually happens when I am trying to do something complex like tipping it back to get onto the bus step, or getting across the road before the light changes. I do not have the time to sound an air horn before they grab it. Regarding the sign, I tried that. They seem to believe it doesn't apply to them. The sign is completely ignored. I took it off because I did not like using a sign and there was zero benefit. It happened regardless of the sign. It seems that nothing can be done. Now that I am disabled I have lost agency even of things I can do. It is a bigger challenge to me than being disabled itself is.
I have been using a xtra large rollator for the past 9 months. At 6'4", even with the XL I am at the limit for handlebar extension and find that this puts me in a stooping stand rather than upright. Another issue is that living in an older semi rural environment the roads are sealed but rough and the footpaths are non-existent. Does anyone make larger wheen conversion kits? Easy enough to substitute on the back wheels, although I suspect the brakes would no longer function, but the front wheels sit inside the caster fork and would not readily accept a larger wheel.
If no one is around to help keep it from sliding back, try to make sure the back of your legs don't push the seat when standing. Also, when pressing on the handles, make sure to press straight down and not down and back. This will help it not slide so much.
Excellent suggestion. Here is my video on going down only 1 step with a rollator but I'll need to look into doing 2 steps. ua-cam.com/video/9Nc07F0XO2A/v-deo.html. Thank you again for the suggestion.
This is an excellent question. There are a couple of options but none of them are great. The first option requires you to have someone else with you to help you bring the rollator up and down the steps. The second option is to have 2 rollators with one used at the top and one down at the bottom which stays there. Unfortunately, both of these options aren't going to work for most people but stairs aren't really safe with a rollator. The standard two-wheeled rolling walker can be managed better on the stairs but the rollator is far more challenging due to it's weight, it's wheels, and the fact that they "open" or unfold when you don't want them to. I've asked many additional therapists their thoughts and opinions on navigating the stairs and their consensus is the same as above. If other people however, have any other ideas that have worked for them, I'd love to hear their thoughts.
Ramps and slopes can definitely be an issue for sure. Hopefully, the ramps are built to ADA code standards which helps navigate the area but slopes themselves don't abide by codes. 🙂 My video on slopes may help some navigate those slopes and ramps in certain circumstances: ua-cam.com/video/iZ5mBVvdxBY/v-deo.html But you're right, sometimes those slopes are too steep for some. A second person helping would be best in those circumstances if the ramp is unavoidable.
I only need mine for outside use. If you're walking down my street there's no place to push it against to stop it. It's a half mile on sidewalks to the closest destination.
I once worked in a casino and it was a common site to see some push someone backwards in a Rollator, didn't think of the falling hazard but this was all inside.
Unfortunately it's a common occurrence. It's worth mentioning that people can still fall over inside on even surfaces, even while just going straight backward. It's less likely but still happens. Thanks for sharing. 🙂
The handle bars are too high for me to try and get up, I have to grab down lower on the frame and push, also no comfortable place to rest your arms, the grips and brake handles are not very comfortable to rest your arms on. The wheels need to be farther apart front to back.
These are great questions. Stairs and hills/slopes can be hard for sure. I'm not sure if you were able to view my video on slopes/hills using a rollator here: ua-cam.com/video/iZ5mBVvdxBY/v-deo.html While the slopes I talk about (especially here in flat Florida) aren't as steep or huge, the concepts and principles remain. If it's too steep/large, I would be very hesitant in trying to conquer them alone because someone could get tired on them either going down or going up.
If you have things in the holder under the seat, you shouldn't go head first down a step. It's too easy for the rollator to get away from you. It's better to turn around and back up to the edge of the step. Put the brakes on and step down. Then, release the brakes and roll the wheels down the step as you walk backward. When all 4 wheels are on the ground, then you can turn the rollator around and proceed forward.
RE: Pushing in a rollator. Exception. If you have a Drive Nitro Duet that is designed to be converted to a transport chair: flip the backrest over and sit FACING FORWARD. Make sure the pusher knows how to use the brakes. When going down a slope, the pusher should be downhill and walking backward and applying the brakes to maintain control.
Thanks for sharing. The Drive Nitro Duet is an excellent tool that is designed to be a hybrid between the rollator and transport chair. It's a great tool. Thanks for sharing. 🙂
Nice video. Someone needs to adjust the brakes on that walker. When you've got the brake levers in the locked position, the rear wheels shouldn't roll. Those look like they're rolling pretty easily when in the locked position.
I do not understand how a rollator can roll with the brakes locked, I can't get mine to move. When the locking bar/s digs into the tire/s, that wheel/s is locked. Ron W4BIN
The reason it can still roll even with the brakes locked is due to the weight of the machine and the grip on the tire. If you think of it like a kitchen chair (without wheels) that weighs say 15 pounds, it can still be moved with force pushed from the sides. If the force is pushed straight down, it's fine. When people are standing up from a rollator, their legs can tend to push backward on the rollator which pushes the 15 or so pound rollator, still locked, backward. If someone's legs aren't pushing back against it, it's also very common for someone to push downward but also backward as they are standing. This again forces the rollator backward. I think of it like a semi truck versus a motorcycle. The semi (us) will win over the motorcycle (rollator) just from a shear force aspect. Now while this is very common to occur, someone can still stand up safely from the rollator without it being pushed against something if they ensure they are pushing straight down (and not down and back) and also that their legs aren't pushing against it. It's just safer to lock it up against an immovable surface to help ensure safety. Thanks for the opportunity to clarify a little bit more of the reasoning here.
Yes, it's one of the disadvantages of the rollator. It's a great device but getting them in and out of the car during travel can be very hard due to its weight on many of them.
I have a Drive F-22. It is the greatest. I ordered a smaller 3-wheeled model that I carry in the car. It is lighter and easy to get in & out. Yes, I know 3-wheelers can be trouble, but I am careful, it's better than not having something.
I do like the drive rollators. And you're right - the 3-wheelers can be tricky because they are less sturdy, but as you say, it's better than not having something. Thanks for sharing.
This is an excellent question. Both steps with and without rails using a rollator is very difficult. There are a couple of options but none of them are great. The first option requires you to have someone else with you to help you bring the rollator up and down the steps. The second option is to have 2 rollators with one used at the top and one down at the bottom which stays there. Unfortunately, both of these options aren't going to work for most people but stairs aren't really safe with a rollator. The standard two-wheeled rolling walker can be managed better on the stairs but the rollator is far more challenging due to it's weight, it's wheels, and the fact that they "open" or unfold when you don't want them to. I've asked many additional therapists their thoughts and opinions on navigating the stairs and their consensus is the same as above. If other people however, have any other ideas that have worked for them, I'd love to hear their thoughts.
I have a different problem with a rollator: getting one that fits me. I am 4'11" and about 225lb. With a regulator rollator, the wheels are BIG making the seat high and my feet are off the ground. With a shorter rollator [pediatric], it was short enough, but could not handle my weight nor adult hips. It took my insurance company several months to get one the proper size. PLEASE remind manufacturers that people are not "one size fits all" and the rollators need to allow for this. The rollator they finally found for me had shorter wheels, about 5" instead of 8". Is there any way to get manufacturers to put some tread on the wheels? If these were on cars, they would be called BALD! I would think that some tread would increase the patient's control. BTW - thanks for the great video. It [and your other ones on using a rollator] should be required viewing for everyone at their dr. office when the 'script is written. And for all caregivers.
Thank you for your suggestions. I do believe manufacturers look into feedback on their site and also likely on comments on other platforms such as UA-cam as well. Let's hope they see this one 🙂. So thank you for sharing your input. As you mentioned, it can be difficult to find various sizes. Also, I'm so glad the Rollator videos have been helpful to you so far! I feel honored by your comment on "required viewing" 🙂. I do think it would help out many people and hopefully reduce the prevalence of falls. Thank you again for spreading the word. I hope you stay safe and independent! 🙂
Speaking of Samaritan Terrorists, I think it would be great if you had a video (suitable for showing at work) on dealing with people who insist on "helping," refuse to take no for an answer, and do everything the wrong way much much too quickly. (Yes, I do think that the vast majority of STs also tailgate when driving, but, that's another video...)
Now that I think of it, the rules for "helping" a person with a disability are exactly the same as for a sexual encounter: 1) ask permission, 2) take no for an answer and 3) slow down! (Of course, pointing that out in an instructional video against Samaritan Terrorism might put it in the NSFW category.)
I’d say, don’t rush. It’s too easy to think since you have a Rollator, you can move faster than you would with a standard Zimmer Frame walker. Rushing can lead to carelessness. Another thing, I would not store anything of great value in the Rollator seat. If a thief thinks there’s something of value there, they most likely would run off with it. Keep a sweater in there, maybe a snack or drink, but keep your ID and wallet on you.
I have a rollator and I love it. However... I keep rolling over my own TOES! If I'm wearing shoes, that's cool... but when I'm barefoot ore in socks, YEOWTCH!
It's a piece of junk done feel 2 time it folded up withe me and it the bolts keep coming loose and my insurance sent it to my was at my home it a piece of junk
Thank you so much for these videos! I am on my 4th Rollator, am very small, and have fallen many times because nobody cared enough to teach me how to use them. I appreciate all you do for us!
I'm so glad you are learning. Thanks for your encouragement. Stay safe and independent. 🙂
@@yourPTguyk
@@janmclain6301 I’m so sorry no one was willing to show you how to use your rollator. People nowadays just don’t know how to give good customer service nowadays. It’s just a job and they could care less
A PT guy came to my house today to " assess" me, 3 weeks out of ostomy surgery and on oxygen, after they discovered my o2 saturation was 83% before surgery. I showed him that i can't roll my rollator thru my house AND wheel my oxygen tank on a cart at the same time. I dont have enough hands to control both at once.
His calluous reply stunned me, for its dangerousness: " oh, just pick your tank up out of its cart and lay it across the top of your rollator, sideways"
!!!!!!!!!
First, who said i can lift my tank? Not bloody likely, kid!
Second, the tank is too long to fit safely across my rollator to go down my hall and thru a 28 inch 1957 doorway.
Third, most impossibly and unsafely, there's nothing to anchor the tank to the frame! On a slope, a step, a curb, or a tilt, it'll either slide right off ---heavily--or its weight, even with brakes on, will send the rollator moving away, uncontrolled!
And finally,
how am i supposed to sit on the seat to rest, with a tank of oxygen resting- unsecured- across the x framing, and obstructing my seat?????
!!!!!!
If i was a lawyer, i'd sue his employer, for dispensing such flippant, dangerous, irresponsible advice !
I'm pressing medicare to let me have a portable o2 concentrator i can wear on a crossbody belt, Hands free, so i can operate my rollator as its designed to be used.
I slowed my rollater down by wrapping layers of rubber electrical tape around the brake pieces that press against the back wheels. The friction slows the whole device, giving me resistance, so it doesnt fly away from me as i walk. The brakes still work as designed, but closing the gap between the tire and the contact is far safer for me, so i dont zing forward, uncontrolled.
Your demonstration of points #4 about not pushing someone sitting in the rollator is spot on to show what can happen. But it must have really hurt just to demonstrate that point when you fell.
Yes! Now I know why people in the movies have stunt doubles. But my hope is that it helps prevent serious falls for others. 🙂
I learned the hard way that the rollator casters can move under the seat a long way and severely change the center of gravity which makes them tip over that way very easily. Knowing about what happened to me, I'd rather have them fixed and not pivot around. I am willing to scooch the thing side ways to navigate it, rather than have the wheels caster around and change the center of gravity like they do. Also Too: When it goes over, it goes quickly. Out at my mailbox at the end of my driveway, I left my rollator and got my mail out of the box. Then I backed into the rollator and sat down but didn't realize the casters had pivoted inward so far under me. With just the little incline my driveway has towards the street and the casters pivoting under me it changed the center of gravity and tipped over backward like it was meant to. I have an issue with Vestibular neuritis or labyrinthitis which makes me dizzy and I've been trying to relearn balance for 10yrs. When I sat down onto the rollator, it just tipped right over backward. I couldn't tell it was even going anywhere due to my lack of sense of balance. I momentarily thought it was rolling a little, but within a millisecond I went all the way over and smacked my head on the pavement. REALLY HARD. I only bled a little but it was lightly raining so what blood there was ran all over the place quickly. I'm lucky none of my neighbors were looking because I'm sure they would have called 911. And it took me about 5 minutes to figure out what happened, gain some sense of balance and figure out how to get up. I had blood running down my face and neck so I really looked bad. I thanked God for giving me such a strong skull, and keeping me alive. I was more angry about the stupidity of the fall than I was about the severe headache. I will say it knocked enough sense into my head that I will never ever make that mistake again. Not the best way to learn, but very impactful. (pun intended) Whenever I sit on that thing, it gets all of my "undivided" attention. Thanks for the vid and I hope my story will lend a hand to your viewers. Rollators are great and they help tremendously, but they are far more dangerous than the directions warn about. ben/ michigan
Ben, Thank you for taking the time to share your story. I hope that your balance is improving some. Vestibular is one of my favorite fields of study and practice but as you know, it's hard work and takes a long time to retrain the brain in it's balance centers. Keep working at it and stay safe and independent 🙂
This may have already been mention but if not....
When I got my Rollator the sales person went through all of the things you mentioned but also took me out to the sidewalk use a sidewalk ramp cutout. This might be standard practice but it was the part that impressed me most both because I will be using the cutouts and it gave me a good idea how quickly the rollator can speed up even on slight slope.
That's great that you got to experience how quick they can take off with someone close by with you. I wish that could be the case for many more people. Thank you for sharing 🙂
Hand on the BRAKES Always.
H
@@jimshoe402
Great video! I had figured out some of your tips on my own, but I get complacent, so this video is a good reminder of the need to be mindful.
I especially appreciated your guidelines for getting up a step. One problem I encounter frequently is having two steps into a building, especially with no railings. I just had to maneuver that recently and it was scary. I had my daughter with me and I decided that I would never tackle 2 steps by myself.
Anyway, thanks for all your videos. They've been a tremendous help for me and have given me a lot more confidence in getting around with my rollator.
Thank you for your encouragement. The 2 steps is an issue for sure, especially if the first step isn't deep enough to put the rollator on. A second person is the safest option for sure here. Stay safe and independent 🙂
I have the Drive F-22 that I got from the VA. This is my second Rollator. I need a new one again. I wear the brakes out after several years. I use mine only in the house. I use my service dog when I go out. No one from the VA gave me lessons on using it. They simply just gave it to me.
I like the Drive F-22. That's a great point about checking the brakes. Loose brakes can be a sure way to end up falling if they are needed and not in good working order. Thank you for sharing and I'm glad you're able to hopefully learn some helpful tips and lessons here. Have a great day and stay safe and independent. 🙂
Thank you for this informative video! It should be required viewing for anyone using a rollator.
Thanks! I'm glad you found it helpful. Stay safe and independent.🙂
I have an issue with a point you made. When you put the Rollator partly on the garden soil, I was aghast. If the soil is moist your weight could cause it to sink into that soil and tip you over. I've recently had knee replacement surgery being nearly wheelchair bound for 3 years prior. While using the wheelchair I have grounded out when detouring off a cement walking path to avoid a group of people (Don't ya just hate persons oblivious to their surroundings?). If the soil is too damp it will cause wheels to bog down into it. Likewise, a Rollator that is positioned onto damp soil will be unforgiving. Sinky, tippy, you go oopppsie BOWWG. I really appreciate all your videos. As I transition back to a walker again, I'm finding them invaluable, thank you.
Yes you are correct. If the soil is moist and not packed, it can certainly sink down in, tipping the walker forward. That's a great clarification. Thank you for sharing. 🙂
@@yourPTguy THANK YOU
I just BT my $200 roller 5* just made it MDW > BNA and Booked 3 trips. HOME for 2.3 years .
You saved my life un happy FOREVER..
THANK YOU 🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰
Hello fro nYc. I am educating myself as I think about transitioning. I am using shopping cart(weighted) and cane for years.
Condition 77f, OPM's 35+ yrs
😊
Ok
Thanks for your helpful video. I upgraded from a pair of offset handled small base quad canes to a rolling walker several years ago. I still use the canes sometimes, mostly in tight spaces. Regarding bending or leaning too far over while using the walker, it's most often caused by using a walker that is to narrow for the user and/or having the handles set too low. If your walker is too narrow for you to walk BETWEEN the legs of the walker, or you have the handles set too low, you will end up bending over to maintain your grip on the handles. This position is bad for your body. It also reduces your control of the walker, putting you at risk of a fall, and the walker is at risk of taking off without you. When using a walker, do your homework! I did. I bought the only model I could find at the time that was sized for short, wide people. It's a Nova Mini Mack, and it has been a big help to me. ❤ I like reverse humor, so I named it Warp 9. 😂 if you absolutely must sit down on a slope, put at least 2 wheels of the walker on the grass, and also park sideways, with the wheels also turned sideways to the slope. However, you are best off getting off the slope before sitting down, and don't forget to back the walker up to something before you lock the brakes and sit down. I call the locking brakes parking brakes. I call the non locking, pressure brakes intermittent brakes.
My upright rollator is named Nellie after Nellie Bly, because we go on adventures together!
Excellent tips. Thank you for sharing your tips and suggestion on the walker. I'm glad you found the Warp 9!
Thank you all of your tips were great because I have been using a Rollator for about two years but I never thought about putting it up against a solid like wall or something along that line or going up and down the stairs and locking the brakes so thank you very much
I'm glad you found it helpful. Stay safe and independent 🙂
My worst problem is getting mine into my SUV. Just lifting it up. I'm trying to stay independent. Thank you.
SUV's are definitely more challenging to get them into than cars for sure. The height of the frame of the SUV usually requires more lifting. One thing that may be helpful though to assist with it not opening up on you when you try to get it in the SUV is a Velcro strap that you can keep the walker together when it's folded. I show how that helps in my other walker video on how to get walkers into cars easier here: ua-cam.com/video/j0gMncSlX2Y/v-deo.html
While the video can show you that Velcro strap tip, there's no way around the fact that SUV's usually will require a little bit more lifting than the cars unfortunately. But the best thing about SUVs is that they're often easier to get our bodies in and out of than lower cars 🙂 Keep striving to stay safe and independent! 🙂
Buy a lightweight one AT your size. I bt one for 7 foot and I could've BT a smaller one but $200 17 Lbs. Next one.
I have 2 walkers. 1 is a wide body model made of steel and weighs 34 lbs. I use it around my apartment building, the park next door, and going to the senior center that is on the other side of the park. It never gets folded up. The second one is a Drive Nitro Duet that is made if aluminum and weighs just 17 lbs. It folds side to side and has a catch to help keep it folded (it does NOT lock closed). I pick it up rotating it 90 degrees so the back wheels roll right in on the back seat.
I have the same issue. I have a scooter lift on my 4 Runner. There is a bar between me and the bumper that sticks out several inches. I have to lift it over the bar to get it in. Most of my spine is fused which is a challenge in and of its self. I wish Rollators were just a few lbs lighter.
Well...I didn't know that the brakes lock. Just tried mine. Mine locks. Thank You for the big tip.
Yes! I'm so glad the video helped. Also, as the years go on, be sure to check how tight or loose the brakes are. They tend to loosen up some over the months and years. Stay safe and independent 🙂
@@yourPTguy I'll have the brakes checked. Thank You.
Thank you for the tips. What I would do getting up a step is hold the pillar or some other stable point with one hand and lift, swing the rollator over with the other hand
Thanks for sharing and for your encouragement. Stay safe and independent. 🙂
My tip, not only for people using rollators but also people using canes or crutches -- if you're going through a door with a push bar and there are people around you, do not lean over the top of your Walker or cane and walking forward push the bar to open the door. This puts you at the mercy of Samaritan Terrorists, who as we know are always in a hurry and want you to move faster. Someone might reach from behind you and push the door open over your shoulder while you are leaning against the door opening it. Their sudden push opening the door is more than enough to make you fall. It's much safer to back into the door, pushing it open with your backside. You might still encounter STs trying to "help" you rush through the door unsafely, but they won't be able to reach over you and suddenly push the door open. There's a small chance an ST might with no warning pull the door open from behind, but in that case you'll still have most of your body weight centered over your assistive device.
That's a helpful tip. Thank you for sharing. 🙂
Speaking from repeated personal experience in one of the world's most hostile office buildings...
,m @@yourPTguy .m.mnm
Always lock rollator when sitting down on bench to prevent runaway on gradients by wind.!
I am trying like crazy to avoid getting wc. ( have ms 35+ yrs) I have been using small shopping cart pushed with one hand, cane in other hand. Of course own a 3 wheel rollator and also now defunct( battery) mobile device. Which I just kept chgd for over 5 yrs. Now battery apparently done.
Reason I find shopping cart so useful..can do laundry, shop and it can hold most anything. Which a rollator Basket cannot.
Any suggestions? Ty
Video very helpful , I was in a hospital parking.g lot and the road was straight and then a sharp inclineafter a pathway , my front wheels got stuck and I almost went right over the walker , very scary !
I'm glad you didn't fall! Phew.
@@yourPTguyThanks. I’m a PT too. I think your video is great. I have recently trying to explain limitations of brakes on rollator. Video is better than talk any day. There is a perception the brakes are not working 1. on steep slopes and 2. when brakes are “locked “ on transit bus as bus driver slams on brakes & walker takes off perhaps you could demo that one too (could be used for transit bus driver training as well) 😮 sadly in vancouver BC people don’t clear sidewalks in snow so rollators are not safe when we have snow, ice. 😢
I just got mine a week ago. Thank you for the tips and tricks
I was watching your video about using a Rollator on steps. I learned the hard way. While going to my son's house on Christmas day 2022, I attempted to go up a step walking on a homemade ramp my son made, that unknown to me was slippery (double trouble). Needless to say, I fell backwards fracturing my neck and my back, not bad enough to require surgery, but painful nonetheless. To this day (2 years later) I am still suffering from that fall. Wish I had seen your videos back then. Hindsight is always 20/20.
Oh no!! Wow! I'm so glad you are on the mend after those scary fractures! I hope you continue to improve. Stay safe and independent. 🙂
Great tips. I especially liked tge one about going up a step: putting the front wheels up, stepping closer to the step, braking, and lifting the back wheels before stepping up. (I presume going down works the same, but requires more care.) I have a friend wh does the 4-wheel lift with no braking and it freaks me out every time she does it! Useful with the simplest to fanciest walker.
I'm glad you found the information helpful. 🙂
I've been using my rollator for a few weeks now and it is great fgor giving me back my independence as long as I maintain
Nice! I love this! I'm so glad you are regaining your independence. 🙂
New to using a rollator. Thank you for your tips. I definitely will keep these safety points.
Me TOO 3 weeks NOW a Cane 1 hr a Day LIFE 🥰🥰🥰🥰
Going up a curb or single step I walk it up. I bring it to the curb and lift up one wheel then the other then push forward, brake and step up and on my way
Thanks for sharing. 🙂
Thanks for all of the tips, I agree. I have a Drive F-22 provided to me by the VA. I have fallen several times before getting mine. Anytime I am outside, I always have my Life Alert 'go anywhere' with me. If alone my wife is unable to help me up so she just pushed the button and the EMT's are on the way to help. The biggest problem for me was not keeping my elbows next to me. Thanks, JB
The Drive F-22 is nice. Excellent idea for the Life Alert go anywhere. They can be a lifesaver for sure. If anyone is ever looking into these safety and fall alert systems, I always try to recommend the ones that have GPS and also fall detection which alerts EMTs if a fall has occurred and the person is unable to hit the button for any reason (a broken bone or is unconscious). Many times someone won't be able to actually press the button so that's why it's such a valuable tool. Thank you for sharing your tips. 🙂
Thank you sir I have one just like that I fell getting up from like that and I fell on the flòorlearned my lesson .
Oh no! I'm sorry to hear that you fell! I hope you were okay.
I use a walker but thought this tip may be helpful. I go to a place several times/week where there’s an incline between the bldg and the parking lot. If I take it slow and zigzag back and forth it keeps me from speeding up.
I used a rollover was walking in a park with no sidewalks in a nearby town was hard pushing and several ditches had to walk through.i didn't know how to use the breaks or step up on a porch locking the brakes and walking up onto second step and on to porch .thank you for video. My mom went to a wedding reception and brother,sister in law pulled her by the back bar in grass while keeping her on the walker .it was hard but made it to the side walk .was a outside wedding . Ty for the videos . Nexttime will know how to do the ways to best get these tips to get the job done in walking with rollator. Bobbie Dietrich.
13:03 I have a walker just like the one in your video. I rely on public transport buses to get around my neighbourhood. What is the correct way to get on and off the bus with a walker?
Ask for the wheelchair ramp to be lowered for you, both embarking and debarking. If they balk, ask if they want a class action lawsuit for violating the FEDERAL ADA( americans w disabilities act)?.
I'm trying to do a few of my own designs, using platforms I modify or use for parts. I think lack of public seating, public benches, seating in retail stores, COVID, has caused more people to bring their own seat with them. And people may get a false sense of security from rollators or wheeled walkers. Promotional blogs posing as informative articals may mislead the public. The medical literature has at leeast a few articles which say the engineering and quality of manufacture of the devices needs to be improved. I think manufacturing standards should be established which include a minimum diameter and type for wheels, breaks that are effective at preventing roll, wheel chucks, and cables should be close to the frame to prevent entanglements.
Many people sit on the wleeled walkers and look over their shoulder, sometimes, as they propel themselves backward with their feet using their quadriceps.This is obviously a dangerous risk of the device tipping and the person geting a dead, neck or back injury. It would be good if manufacters built for people who will also need the option to safely use the wheeled walker as a transport seat, which is most everyone using them. Making the backrest reeversable and adding footrests, or a seat which could be shifted could help and enable the weight distribution to be safer. It would be good to know more about exactly why people are using these devices. For convienant seating, balance, off loading weight, injury rehab, stroke rehab, cardiac rehab or post myocardial infarction, neurological disorders, or other reasons. I'm guessing much of it is due to a lack of public seating since municipalities have been removing public benches on streets and parks for years. The fatigue people experiance and DIY bring your own seating is bad for public health and presents thousands of wheeled walker related falls in emergency departments.
That's one reason I stay home, thank God for Uber.
Now theres a million dollar idea. Make a safer one and you'll eclipse whats out there. Pursue it and get it made.
I have my rollator set REALLY high. I know the handlebars should come about wrist height. But I slump. The exact thing my doctor warned me of before kyphoplasty. By setting the rollator at about the height of the bottom of my rib cage…I stand up and I don’t get nearly as tired.
I won’t swear that it’ll work for everyone. It works for me.
Oh my God when he fell out of that it was so dramatic
Thank you for all of your suggestions on the Rollator I have one and I’d like to know how it would be the easiest way to go up stairs three of them I’m outside
My tip: When you come to a standstill at a door sill or pavement crack-any minor impediment, really-do a little side jiggle to get one front wheel over, then straighten to get the other front wheel over. The Elenkers (like the tall one in your videos) even have a little foot jack in back to give added leverage. Much easier than fighting both stubborn wheels at once.
Excellent tips! Thank you for sharing.
The back wheels is the brakes, live along, my granddaughter bought one but I put it together... its works. 😮
I would like you to show us how to go up multiple steps. My apartment has a porch and six-steps to go up or down. Thank you!!!
Thanks so much for the tips.
I'll be 90 in a few days and I've had my rollator duet combination Walker and wheelchair for 2 years and I've never had a problem and I never was instructed how to use it I just use common sense. The thing I like about it it turns on a dime in my narrow hallway going to the bathroom I can go straight on down the hallway and when I'm ready to go back I can turn it around it's just swivels around in a very small space or other walkers cannot do that and if I need a wheelchair put the pedals down and my daughter pushes me.
Happy almost 90th birthday!! 🎉🎉 🙂 I'm glad that the wheelchair/walker combo is working nicely. I'm sure your daughter is very happy to be able to celebrate with you such an achievement. Stay safe and enjoy that birthday! There's lots of wisdom in those 90 years I'm sure.
Continuing From Below my daughter pushes me then if it's a short distance and she's tired then I get up put the pedals back up and I walk again and so on and so forth back and forth .
Thank you I'm much safer than in a car can't drive anymore I do the use all your safety tips and always feel better when I use my Walker the right way thanks again
I have had problems with the edge of the road! My street has a high crown to and both my walkers roll so easily I need to pay attention to the grass on the side of the road!
Could you please comment on how to adjust the right height of the rollator handles as I am 5 ft 11iches tall.
Excellent question! I'll film a video showing the following, but before that, here's the gist:
When you stand up as tall as you can with one or both arms down at your side, the handle height should come to roughly about the location of your wrist. Then, when you now go to grab the handle, there will be just a slight bend in your elbow (not too straight, not too bent, just slight- when writing this it reminds me of Goldilocks! 🙂)
But how do you get the handle up and down? Each Rollator is a little bit different depending on your make and model but in general, if you look down the bar from the handle, there is usually a knob on the outside that can be twisted to the left to loosen up. This knob has a screw that loosens up when you twist it to the left. Be careful when you begin loosening it up because the there is often a plastic piece (or two) and/or a metal piece on inside that the knob and screw tightens in to. Once you have the knob and screw and the plastic/metal piece out, you can raise or lower the height to where your wrist is.
After you have the right spot, you place the knob and screw through the hole of the Rollator frame and it's handle bar, and then tighten down with the plastic and/or metal piece. Make sure it's good and snug. You can repeat the process on the other side.
With that said however, I do think it's easier to "see" it done rather than read how to do it. Thank you for the suggestion on another helpful video. I'll work on getting this one out soon. If you haven't already, be sure to click "Subscribe" and also the little "Bell" icon that will alert you when future videos come out if you'd like to stay up to date.
Stay safe and independent 🙂
I watched your getting in the car episode.
My problem withe the rollator is its weight. I can’t pick it up.
Very good helpful information. The person who assembled and delivered it made the handle too low, I made it higher but not totally satisfied with the height. What's the proper way to adjust the height, a reply would be much appreciated.
Excellent question. Typically, you want to have just a slight bend at the elbow. When someone is standing upright with the walker close, the handle should come to (or just a bit higher) than the person's wrist with the arm dropped at the side. You can check out my video that shows what I'm talking about here: ua-cam.com/video/Ofq8Vfh-qu0/v-deo.html
The video is for the standard two-wheeled walker but the same concept applies. Bonus - My daughter helped me on this one too which was fun.
@@yourPTguy thank you for yr quick response. I'll check that video out
What about backing up to get onto a step. Keep the roll at or flat, step up then holding onto roll at or lift back wheels then front wheels up onto the step?
Thank you for sharing these tips. Is it possible to carry these rollators on long flights?
Due to a weak back I tend to lean forward. I use my rollator or a grocery cart to help me stand up. Like you were standing after rolling down the hill. so I am at risk for what you warned about.
Thanks for sharing. Some people need to lean forward due to spinal stenosis or back pain to relieve some of their pain. While it does place someone more at risk of tripping, as long as the person is aware of it, they can be more alert and not be taken off guard.
Do you have any advice on getting in and out of a bathtub? I have a strong bar around the back and inside and a movable bar that clamps on to the outside but they are not enough for me. The tub is too narrow to turn around to get on my knees, so I don't dare take a bath.
Thanks for the question. I'll see if I can do a video here about getting in and out of a bathtub. Just some preliminary suggestions here though: Have you ever looked into a bathbench? Bathbenches are different than shower chairs in that 2 legs stay out of the tub and 2 legs stay inside. That way, you can sit down on it and slide into the tub while sitting. Another way that some people feel a little bit more at ease is holding onto a vertical grab bar that is at the entrance to the tub, with 2 hands, and then the person side steps into (and out of) the tub instead of going forward. I'll see what I can do to put some together soon. Bathrooms are one of the primary places falls occur. Stay safe and independent 🙂
Great video -- what if you have to go up/down more than 2 steps and have your walker? Any tips for when you're not using the walker, and there is no handrail to hold onto when using steps? Appreciate any advice.
Thank you for your encouragement. Steps and walkers are very challenging. If you have a regular 2-wheeled rolling walker without the seat, it's a little bit more manageable (but still hard). You can find my video on getting up and down stairs using that kind of walker here:
ua-cam.com/video/lJbUJrmXq3U/v-deo.html
But as for Rollators, because they often don't fold up the same, it can be very challenging. The best case is obviously if you have another person to help bring the walker down or up the stairs and then use either a railing, cane, or another person's arm or a combination of them, to get safely up and down steps. But as you said, there's not always a railing, a cane, or even another person to help. And each step is different because of the height and depth and it's always best to have a physical therapist or other healthcare worker help you navigate those specific steps.
When there's no handrail to hold onto, that makes it even more difficult. This is where a cane or two can be also very helpful. I know some people even put a "cane holder" or two on their walkers. And if you're using a hurrycane, that one can actually fold up and fit underneath the rollator seat. I'd be curious to hear from others in regards to this scenario. Ultimately though, a local physical therapist would be great to help navigate that scenario.
Excellent report. PD patient.
Great Advice...... thanks
You're welcome. I'm glad you found it helpful. Stay safe and independent 🙂
UP with the good led DOWN with weak leg not always a rule?
Up with the good and down with the weak is usually the case, yes indeed. 🙂
What if you have three steps up to your door and only have like a 4x5 slab as a porch and yet you need room for the 36" storm door swing?
Your videos are very helpful. Thank you
I'm glad you find them helpful. Stay safe and independent 🙂
I have a rollator, which is great. However, my main problem is that people keep trying to grab it, or even do grab it by the front bar in attempt to pull me, particularly when I am getting on or off a bus. I protest. They almost invariably say they are trying to help. I have had a bus driver get extremely angry at me when he had already grabbed it and I said No! I was getting off the bus the other day and a complete stranger grabbed the walking stick which was clipped to the side, and pulled it by that. The walking stick detached in his hands., fortunately, as if he had pulled on the walker from the side he would have tipped it as I was getting off. I didn't see him coming, or expect it, as it was getting dark, and he was to my right, not in front of me. It is rare for people to ask me first, to say, May I help you? I have been asked only once.. They usually attempt to grab without saying anything. I am a woman, 5'3" and not overweight. I don't think they do it to bigger people. It is a huge problem to me, that I am not sure how to deal with. Does anyone have any ideas on how I can successfully deal with this?
Um...attach an airhorn, like fans blow at sports events! To shock em into stopping?
Put a signal orange tape sign across your bar that says DO NOT TOUCH!
???
@@janetpschwartz8991 Thank you for your thoughtful reply. It usually happens when I am trying to do something complex like tipping it back to get onto the bus step, or getting across the road before the light changes. I do not have the time to sound an air horn before they grab it. Regarding the sign, I tried that. They seem to believe it doesn't apply to them. The sign is completely ignored. I took it off because I did not like using a sign and there was zero benefit. It happened regardless of the sign.
It seems that nothing can be done. Now that I am disabled I have lost agency even of things I can do. It is a bigger challenge to me than being disabled itself is.
I have been using a xtra large rollator for the past 9 months. At 6'4", even with the XL I am at the limit for handlebar extension and find that this puts me in a stooping stand rather than upright. Another issue is that living in an older semi rural environment the roads are sealed but rough and the footpaths are non-existent. Does anyone make larger wheen conversion kits? Easy enough to substitute on the back wheels, although I suspect the brakes would no longer function, but the front wheels sit inside the caster fork and would not readily accept a larger wheel.
My problem getting up while sitting in a parking lot with no grass edges available. No cars, no curbs.
If no one is around to help keep it from sliding back, try to make sure the back of your legs don't push the seat when standing. Also, when pressing on the handles, make sure to press straight down and not down and back. This will help it not slide so much.
Please talk about how to go DOWN a step or 2, TY
Excellent suggestion. Here is my video on going down only 1 step with a rollator but I'll need to look into doing 2 steps. ua-cam.com/video/9Nc07F0XO2A/v-deo.html.
Thank you again for the suggestion.
How can you use getting walker up and down stairs
This is an excellent question. There are a couple of options but none of them are great. The first option requires you to have someone else with you to help you bring the rollator up and down the steps. The second option is to have 2 rollators with one used at the top and one down at the bottom which stays there. Unfortunately, both of these options aren't going to work for most people but stairs aren't really safe with a rollator. The standard two-wheeled rolling walker can be managed better on the stairs but the rollator is far more challenging due to it's weight, it's wheels, and the fact that they "open" or unfold when you don't want them to.
I've asked many additional therapists their thoughts and opinions on navigating the stairs and their consensus is the same as above.
If other people however, have any other ideas that have worked for them, I'd love to hear their thoughts.
How safe is a 3 wheel rollator?
Problem with going up or down too steep handicap ramp
Ramps and slopes can definitely be an issue for sure. Hopefully, the ramps are built to ADA code standards which helps navigate the area but slopes themselves don't abide by codes. 🙂 My video on slopes may help some navigate those slopes and ramps in certain circumstances: ua-cam.com/video/iZ5mBVvdxBY/v-deo.html
But you're right, sometimes those slopes are too steep for some. A second person helping would be best in those circumstances if the ramp is unavoidable.
Yes I was leaning heavily on my walker bent over and the little bolt broke and down I went so I will never lean over on one again
Excellent - I had no idea.... Thanks so much.
You're welcome. Stay safe and independent 🙂
I only need mine for outside use. If you're walking down my street there's no place to push it against to stop it. It's a half mile on sidewalks to the closest destination.
I once worked in a casino and it was a common site to see some push someone backwards in a Rollator, didn't think of the falling hazard but this was all inside.
Unfortunately it's a common occurrence. It's worth mentioning that people can still fall over inside on even surfaces, even while just going straight backward. It's less likely but still happens. Thanks for sharing. 🙂
Staircase or multiple stairs?
The handle bars are too high for me to try and get up, I have to grab down lower on the frame and push, also no comfortable place to rest your arms, the grips and brake handles are not very comfortable to rest your arms on. The wheels need to be farther apart front to back.
What if the stairs are smaller and more compact. What about the more huge hills going up and down while walking.
These are great questions. Stairs and hills/slopes can be hard for sure. I'm not sure if you were able to view my video on slopes/hills using a rollator here: ua-cam.com/video/iZ5mBVvdxBY/v-deo.html
While the slopes I talk about (especially here in flat Florida) aren't as steep or huge, the concepts and principles remain. If it's too steep/large, I would be very hesitant in trying to conquer them alone because someone could get tired on them either going down or going up.
If you have things in the holder under the seat, you shouldn't go head first down a step. It's too easy for the rollator to get away from you. It's better to turn around and back up to the edge of the step. Put the brakes on and step down. Then, release the brakes and roll the wheels down the step as you walk backward. When all 4 wheels are on the ground, then you can turn the rollator around and proceed forward.
That's an excellent tip! Great point. Thank you for sharing. Extra weight can definitely play a factor for sure.
RE: Pushing in a rollator. Exception. If you have a Drive Nitro Duet that is designed to be converted to a transport chair: flip the backrest over and sit FACING FORWARD. Make sure the pusher knows how to use the brakes. When going down a slope, the pusher should be downhill and walking backward and applying the brakes to maintain control.
Thanks for sharing. The Drive Nitro Duet is an excellent tool that is designed to be a hybrid between the rollator and transport chair. It's a great tool. Thanks for sharing. 🙂
My mom has tried to sit....and use her heels to move backward. I advised her this is VERY DANGEROUS
Nice video. Someone needs to adjust the brakes on that walker. When you've got the brake levers in the locked position, the rear wheels shouldn't roll. Those look like they're rolling pretty easily when in the locked position.
Thank you
Thank you!
You're welcome! 🙂
I do not understand how a rollator can roll with the brakes locked, I can't get mine to move.
When the locking bar/s digs into the tire/s, that wheel/s is locked. Ron W4BIN
The reason it can still roll even with the brakes locked is due to the weight of the machine and the grip on the tire. If you think of it like a kitchen chair (without wheels) that weighs say 15 pounds, it can still be moved with force pushed from the sides. If the force is pushed straight down, it's fine. When people are standing up from a rollator, their legs can tend to push backward on the rollator which pushes the 15 or so pound rollator, still locked, backward. If someone's legs aren't pushing back against it, it's also very common for someone to push downward but also backward as they are standing. This again forces the rollator backward.
I think of it like a semi truck versus a motorcycle. The semi (us) will win over the motorcycle (rollator) just from a shear force aspect.
Now while this is very common to occur, someone can still stand up safely from the rollator without it being pushed against something if they ensure they are pushing straight down (and not down and back) and also that their legs aren't pushing against it. It's just safer to lock it up against an immovable surface to help ensure safety.
Thanks for the opportunity to clarify a little bit more of the reasoning here.
Love these too heavy too lift
Yes, it's one of the disadvantages of the rollator. It's a great device but getting them in and out of the car during travel can be very hard due to its weight on many of them.
Does it damage the Rollator to push someone in it?
How about walking down a slope ?
I usually have the brakes slightly applied. There's a slope at the Dr. office and that's how I do it, it's about 50' to 75' long.
What is the name of the plants in front y?
The pineapples?
Not having it adjusted to you. I'm taller and I've had to move things around on mine so I am not leaning over it trying to walk.
Excellent tip. Thank you for sharing! 🙂
Where's the best place to buy new rollers for the rollator?
I have a Drive F-22. It is the greatest. I ordered a smaller 3-wheeled model that I carry in the car. It is lighter and easy to get in & out. Yes, I know 3-wheelers can be trouble, but I am careful, it's better than not having something.
I do like the drive rollators. And you're right - the 3-wheelers can be tricky because they are less sturdy, but as you say, it's better than not having something. Thanks for sharing.
Many people opt to get rollers at a local durable medical equipment store. But beware - they may be pricey when it comes to maintenance or installs.
@yourPTguy I appreciate you taking the time to respond, but pricey or not I need them. Everything cost a bit more these days.
What about steps without rail
This is an excellent question. Both steps with and without rails using a rollator is very difficult. There are a couple of options but none of them are great. The first option requires you to have someone else with you to help you bring the rollator up and down the steps. The second option is to have 2 rollators with one used at the top and one down at the bottom which stays there. Unfortunately, both of these options aren't going to work for most people but stairs aren't really safe with a rollator. The standard two-wheeled rolling walker can be managed better on the stairs but the rollator is far more challenging due to it's weight, it's wheels, and the fact that they "open" or unfold when you don't want them to.
I've asked many additional therapists their thoughts and opinions on navigating the stairs and their consensus is the same as above.
If other people however, have any other ideas that have worked for them, I'd love to hear their thoughts.
I have arthrose Will please me this Goodyear for me or no
I have a different problem with a rollator: getting one that fits me. I am 4'11" and about 225lb. With a regulator rollator, the wheels are BIG making the seat high and my feet are off the ground. With a shorter rollator [pediatric], it was short enough, but could not handle my weight nor adult hips. It took my insurance company several months to get one the proper size. PLEASE remind manufacturers that people are not "one size fits all" and the rollators need to allow for this. The rollator they finally found for me had shorter wheels, about 5" instead of 8". Is there any way to get manufacturers to put some tread on the wheels? If these were on cars, they would be called BALD! I would think that some tread would increase the patient's control.
BTW - thanks for the great video. It [and your other ones on using a rollator] should be required viewing for everyone at their dr. office when the 'script is written. And for all caregivers.
Thank you for your suggestions. I do believe manufacturers look into feedback on their site and also likely on comments on other platforms such as UA-cam as well. Let's hope they see this one 🙂. So thank you for sharing your input. As you mentioned, it can be difficult to find various sizes.
Also, I'm so glad the Rollator videos have been helpful to you so far! I feel honored by your comment on "required viewing" 🙂. I do think it would help out many people and hopefully reduce the prevalence of falls. Thank you again for spreading the word. I hope you stay safe and independent! 🙂
@@yourPTguy I hope so.
How to use it on escalator?
Just don’t.
Speaking of Samaritan Terrorists, I think it would be great if you had a video (suitable for showing at work) on dealing with people who insist on "helping," refuse to take no for an answer, and do everything the wrong way much much too quickly. (Yes, I do think that the vast majority of STs also tailgate when driving, but, that's another video...)
Now that I think of it, the rules for "helping" a person with a disability are exactly the same as for a sexual encounter: 1) ask permission, 2) take no for an answer and 3) slow down! (Of course, pointing that out in an instructional video against Samaritan Terrorism might put it in the NSFW category.)
If you are in a parking lot there may not be can grass 'area'!
True true. Sometimes there are either lights, columns, or parking curbs too to use hopefully.
Not parking it far enough ahead then tripping over wheel
This is an excellent tip. Yes yes. Sometimes those wheels extend out without noticing. Thanks for sharing.
Should a guy that is paralyzed on his right side use one of these no use of the right hand
I’d say, don’t rush. It’s too easy to think since you have a Rollator, you can move faster than you would with a standard Zimmer Frame walker. Rushing can lead to carelessness. Another thing, I would not store anything of great value in the Rollator seat. If a thief thinks there’s something of value there, they most likely would run off with it. Keep a sweater in there, maybe a snack or drink, but keep your ID and wallet on you.
Thank you for sharing such helpful tips! 🙂
Never take your dog fir a walk while on a rollator. Did it twice and fell twice when he moved in front of me.
Oh no! Yes excellent tip. We aren't looking to have husky rollator teams. 🙂 I hope you're okay after those falls. Thank you for sharing.
What do you do if you need to go up several steps using a Rollator?
No.., strike that. One PT was harmed in the production of this video.
"Rollator" huh? I've been referring to it as my "victim cart" because when I have to use it I feel so dependent & vulnerable.
Get a better attitude. These devices help you maintain independence. Being more independent is not exactly a victim activity.
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My device is made to convert into a wheelchair.
Interesting! Which device is it?
I have a rollator and I love it. However... I keep rolling over my own TOES! If I'm wearing shoes, that's cool... but when I'm barefoot ore in socks, YEOWTCH!
Yes ouch ouch. Thanks for sharing this tip just in case. Hopefully we don't need to use steel-toed boots 😊
That little Rollator you have there is very light, I would never buy it .
Yep they make a bunch of different kinds. There are others that are heavy duty as well. Each walker definitely has it's pros and cons.
Turning around too fast.
Yes! So true. Thank you for sharing the tip!
It's a piece of junk done feel 2 time it folded up withe me and it the bolts keep coming loose and my insurance sent it to my was at my home it a piece of junk
This piece of junk is an accident waiting to happen. What senior citizen will remember those tips all the time. Only takes one mistake.