Virtually all mobility products have a specification indicating the maximum weight capacity of the item. A common question we receive is how to interpret this spec. Let us point out a few things to keep in mind when choosing a rollator or wheelchair.

The weight capacity includes the total weight exerted or placed on the product. If a person siting in a transport chair weighs 200 pounds and is wearing a winter coat weighing 8 pounds, the total weight exerted is 208 lbs.

In addition to clothing, one must consider the possibility that they will sometimes carry packages with them. This alone can add 30+ pounds to the overall weight exerted on the wheelchair.

When it comes to walking aids such as walkers and rollators there is another factor to determine as well. It is possible for person weighing 125 pounds to exert more strain on a walker than another person weighing 175 lbs. It depends on how much pressure that person exerts on the walker when they push it.

One more point that I would like to mention is that a wheelchair or rollator operating at its limits can easily be damaged should it hit a really bad rut or crack. The total strain exerted at that moment would be much greater than during normal use.

So the short answer is that the listed weight capacity is not to be taken as a literal figure, but an approximation. My recommendation to customers is to purchase a product with a maximum capacity considerably higher than the intended usage. Someone who weighs 275 pounds, for example, should probably be purchasing a bariatric wheelchair or rollator, even if the standard version lists 300 pounds as its capacity.

A common question that customers ask is what the difference is between all the different rollators that we carry. Why are some more expensive than others? What features should they be looking for? Let us point out some of the basic differences between the different model rollators that we carry.

We shall begin by pointing out a few things that all rollators have in common. A rollator by definition is a mobility aid that has four wheels and a flip down seat. A rollator also must have squeeze hand brakes (or push down brakes) to prevent the wheels from rolling. This is in contrast to a traditional walker which may have two wheels or none at all. Regular walkers also don't usually have a seat, although some do or it can be purchased as an optional accessory. The advantage of a rollator over a walker is that it is inherently easier to push. It must be determined, however, if the user has the stability to use such a walking device.

The first and foremost question that has to be answered when choosing a rollator is what form factor the customer is looking for. There are basically two types of rollators. There is the standard rollator which has handles that resemble those on a baby stroller. Examples of this are the Drive Medical R6, Invacare 65650 and Lumex RJ4300. A variation on this design is the 3 wheel rollator (ex. Drive Medical 10218). The second type is one pioneered by Invacare called the Rollite Rollator, which is available in various configurations and colors (65100, 68100, etc.). It resembles a traditional walker with its upside down "U" frame, with the addition of wheels and a seat. Drive Medical also makes a rollator of this type called the 10230 Clever Lite Walker. Besides for personal preference, a determining factor in choosing between these two types is doorway clearance, as the Rollite and its cousins are wider than most other rollators.

As with any mobility aid, the dimensions, product weight and max weight capacity must be carefully studied. Heavier people must select a bariatric model. Shorter people may have to get a junior model. Doorways must be measured to make sure the rollator will fit through the opening. Handle height is usually adjustable. Seat height is not adjustable, with the Rollite family being an exception to this rule. If product weight is of concern, aluminum rollators weigh considerably less than their steel counterparts.

In addition to the physical dimensions, rolaltors are available with various wheel sizes. The most common size is 5 to 6 inches. 8 inches wheels provide a noticeable advantage when being used on uneven terrain.

Last and least (but not to some) is the color option. The most popular rollator colors are blue and red, but some models come in other colors as well, such as the Drive Medical LBPS. There are even rollators that offer designer colors.

This is by no means an exhaustive checklist of options and features to consider when purchasing a new rollator. But it should help as a starting point. As always, we are more than happy to answer any additional product questions you may have. Feel free to call us at 800-292-1129.

A customer called requesting to return a transport chair he had purchased from us. He explained that the reason he purchased the transport chair was because he wanted something to hold on to as he walked around the house. He did not want a walker as walkers do not have 4 wheels. Being that the transport wheelchair has handles, he thought it to be ideal for this. He specifically ordered our most lightweight transport chair, the Drive Medical DFL19.

Well the problem was that the transport wheelchair was tipping backwards as he pushed it around the house with the seat vacant, using the chair as a support.

Of course we took the item back as it was within 30 days of purchase. I recommended that he purchase the Drive Medical LBPS Aluminum Rollator. He is very happy with the product.