A rollator is a type of walking aid, similar to a walker, and is commonly referred to as a “rollator walker.” Rollators feature three or four wheels and hand brakes. Unlike traditional walkers, rollators are designed to provide continuous rolling support, making mobility smoother and more efficient for users with balance or walking difficulties.
Many people use a rollator alongside a cane—relying on the cane for short trips or tight spaces, while using the rollator for extended mobility, increased stability, and added comfort. There are several types of rollators available. Three-wheel rollators are ideal for maximum maneuverability and compactness, especially indoors. Four-wheel rollators are typically more robust and offer features such as padded seats and backrests, perfect for outdoor use and users who benefit from the ability to rest during longer walks. There are also bariatric rollators, designed for stability and higher weight capacities, plus outdoor or all-terrain models that perform well on rough or uneven surfaces. For those who value elegance, some rollators emphasize sleek, modern styling.
Rollators have rapidly grown in popularity over the past few years, now making them the most common type of walking aid in North America. If you have previously used a standard walker, it quickly becomes apparent why rollators are preferred: rollators eliminate the need to lift the device with each step. Their rolling design allows users to navigate varied terrain with ease and confidence, while hand brakes provide extra safety and control. Many models include convenient accessories, such as storage baskets, cup holders, and smart phone mounts, further increasing their utility and range.
While rollators are usually more expensive than basic walkers, they can significantly improve quality of life by enabling independence, promoting physical activity, and reducing the risk of falls. Their lightweight and portable construction means they’re easy to transport, store, and maneuver for everyday tasks. In summary, rollators offer improved safety, mobility, balance, stability, comfort, and freedom for people of all ages.
Who Uses a Rollator?
The most common use cases for rollators include:
Balance issues and fall prevention: For people with unsteady gait, high fall risk, or dizziness, rollators provide vital support.
Arthritis and joint conditions: Ideal for those with osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis, particularly in the knees, hips, or spine.
Fatigue or low endurance: Beneficial for individuals with heart, lung, or neurological disease, chronic fatigue syndrome, chronic pain, fibromyalgia, or lupus who need frequent rests.
Recovery after surgery or injury: Especially helpful post hip or knee replacement, stroke, or leg/foot trauma.
Chronic neurological disorders: Provides mobility and safety for those with Parkinson’s, multiple sclerosis (MS), or spinal stenosis.
Carrying oxygen or medical gear: A rollator allows users with COPD, congestive heart failure, or pulmonary fibrosis to transport medical supplies and take seated breaks when needed.
To support these diverse needs in and outside the home, rollators have evolved since their invention in the late 1970s. Modern rollators may include ergonomic grips, large wheels, lightweight carbon fiber frames, and innovative add-ons like baskets and phone holders. When choosing a rollator, some of the most important considerations are the weight, size, wheel type, brake system, and ease of transport or foldability.