Rollators: lightweight mobility aids with style

They used to have an image problem. But now, rollators or walkers, are anything but boring or stuffy. For many, they are treasured state-of-the-art companions for everyday life and a way to express their personality. That’s because manufacturers have listened carefully to understand the needs of their customers, which resulted in mobility aids that are increasingly lightweight and come with a variety of options and accessories for personalization. They have also become more convenient and comfortable without sacrificing their main function.

Do you prefer carbon or aluminum? Do you need an indoor or outdoor device? Are you more often active in the city or do you like to go off-road? Do you prefer a fold-down version for easy storage and transport or is robust and rugged more your style? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. Many rollator manufacturers offer different models for any terrain or purpose. Safety and function are no longer the only must-haves when it comes to this mobility tool. It's a little like buying a car: modern cars must do more than just get you safely from A to B. They are also the ultimate status symbol.

Not surprisingly, Bischoff & Bischoff, one of the leading manufacturers in the field of medical aids, has collaborated with Porsche Design Studio for its ALEVO series. The result is a state-of-the-art rollator that is on the cutting edge in terms of safety and ease of use and where comfort and design go hand in hand. "Today’s users expect a safe, reliable companion for everyday life that provides mobility support and is something they can proudly show off," says Sascha Bischoff. The company makes active listening to its customers a priority: "Nothing is more important and valuable than honest feedback," emphasizes the chief marketing officer. Everyone’s needs are different, which is why users should always consider how they want to use the rollator before buying it – in other words, they must find the right device for their lifestyle.

Employees at medical supply stores help users to choose the right model. Bischoff & Bischoff are not the only experts who know the importance of local stores as advice centers. TOPRO is a company that also offers workshops and training sessions for specialty retailers, thus guiding them to ask potential clients the right questions. Even though today’s rollators come with detailed instructions that users can listen to or read, the only way to find the right companion with the right features is to try out different models.

"A person who is still active and likes to be outdoors might choose our Olympus ATR all-terrain rollator thanks to its large front wheels. Someone who prefers flexibility and plans to manage most everyday situations with comfort and ease might select the Troja 5G, our 'colorful all-rounder'. Our Troja Neuro is likely the pick of people with neurological conditions. No matter what your ability is, we take care of you at TOPRO," explains the Managing Director TOPRO Germany. Matthias Meskat adds that trade fairs like REHACARE are also an important factor. "We often meet people who are not fully aware of the possibilities and rollator product options. They are grateful for the tips and comprehensive advice they receive at our trade show booth." Trade fair visitors also get the chance to discover the latest trends and innovations.

Thanks to its vast experience, B+B knows that "a lightweight frame and overall ease of use” are paramount. Enter the CAPERO. This aluminum rollator weighs less than six kilos and comes standard with many included extras. The Norwegian manufacturer TOPRO also knows the importance of the right accessories –spiked wheels that provide added safety and traction, especially in winter weather, for example. The company also offers a 7-year warranty, which includes parts that are exposed to natural wear and tear if the device is inspected once a year by a specialty retailer. The benefit: "Users can be certain that their rollator is always safe and well-maintained."

Based in Karlsbad, Baden-Württemberg, B+B built an Innovation Hub in 2019 to ensure safe, reliable products and services and customer satisfaction. The Hub is committed to developing, testing, and shaping the trends of tomorrow.

And speaking of trends – there is a growing level of environmental awareness. Norway-based TOPRO offers a recycling program for rollators. After the warranty period has expired, users can return their device and TOPRO refurbishes the rollators to give them a second chance. The company also relies on Hydro Reduxa, a low-carbon aluminum that helps reduce the carbon footprint of TOPRO’s products.

Whether they are sporty and modern, understated for everyday use, or feature a revolutionary design and eye-catching style – rollators are no longer bulky and boring walking aids. They are trusted companions and match the individuality and style of their users. This symbiosis between function and design results in improved satisfaction, increased self-determination, and an enhanced quality of life of people with disabilities and older adults.