How To Maintain Rollators

Following from our previous blog about keeping clients safe while using their rollators, this week we’ll talk about how to best maintain their rollators so that it’ll stay with them for years to come. Like all mobility equipment rollators also need to be maintained since if it’s not maintained well then it could break down when you least expect it, which could cause distress.

For example the wheels can either be made of hard plastic wrapped in rubber or come with wheels that you see on a car or bike; meaning that it’s an inflatable tube within a durable rubber tyre. Now if you have a rollator that is in the latter category than you might want to occasionally have the client exam and fill up the wheels to keep it going.

Another handy tip is to wipe the frame down at least once a week to remove any dust and dirt. Similarly if their rollator has gotten wet due to rain then it’s best to dry it off as soon as possible to prevent rust from building up. Additionally if their rollator has a seat, like some of our rollators do, then they should also inspect the seat for wear and tear.

Similar to bikes it’s important to check the brakes and ensure that they’re in proper working order. If your clients are unsure how to make the adjustments they can give us a call on 02 9649 2111 or email to our repairs team.

As rollators often give support it’s important to ensure that all the hand and height adjustments are secure before using it. Additionally prevent injuries from occurring by making sure that the locking mechanisms are in place and engaged before putting any weight on it.

The grips are another part of the rollator that needs to be regularly maintained because weather/humidity and usage can cause the grips to become loose and move. Clients should give care to make sure that the grips are snug and secure to prevent accidental slipping, which can result in wrist or fall injuries.

Wheels are perhaps the most important thing that needs checking. Other than ensuring that the wheels are inflated it’s also important that the front swivel wheels are inspected for wear and tear and if they’re easily moveable. If not then contact our repairs team to have it serviced as soon as possible.

One thing to always remember: if any of the rollator’s parts aren’t moving or doing what it’s designed to do then don’t use the rollator. Also all wheels must be in contact with the floor at all times, if it isn’t then the rollator isn’t balance and clients run the risk of falling.

Hopefully this brief guide will show your clients how to properly take care of their rollator to ensure that it stays with them for a long time. If your client’s rollator, or any of their equipment, is showing signs of wear and tear or doesn’t work as it should then our service team is always ready to help. Get in touch with them and we can help get your client up and moving once more.