Our experiences in Bad Mergentheim and valuable insights into rollator use
During our conversations with rollator users when testing the Romiro model, many of them talked about their daily worries. This knowledge can help other sufferers and their families enormously. We have therefore created a concise checklist to empathically understand the challenges and select the right rollator. This checklist is intended to make the purchase decision easier.
Our experiences in Bad Mergentheim
In Bad Mergentheim, we gained valuable insights by interviewing around 200 to 300 people. This gave us a comprehensive overview of the needs and challenges of rollator users.
Diverse needs
Many users own several rollators because a single one often does not meet all requirements. This shows how individual the needs are.
Missing accessories
Practical accessories such as trays are often missing, even though they could make a big difference in everyday life. Stiftung Warentest has repeatedly criticized this problem.
Modern rollators and their importance
Modern rollators significantly improve mobility and safety, allowing many affected people to leave the house again.
Conclusion
Continuous improvement of rollators is crucial. Our checklist is designed to help those affected make the right choice and improve their quality of life. With Romiro, we try to respond to user feedback and develop appropriate solutions.
Romiro: Innovative rollator with electric wheelchair function
When developing Romiro, we spoke to older people, relatives and experts. Many older people are embarrassed to use a rollator. A tried and tested approach is to simply put the rollator in the home. Empathy and conversation with those affected are important. It often helps to bring the rollator as an appreciative gift.
Rollators: Independence and comfort for all ages
Many older people feel stigmatized by using rollators. In fact, they are practical tools that provide comfort and independence, similar to shopping trolleys or e-bikes. A rollator with a seat function can be particularly useful in cities without adequate seating. Rollators should be seen as a sign of independence and comfort, not a symbol of old age.
Checklist: What are the minimum requirements a rollator should meet?
- Upholstery: For seat, backrest and armrests.
- Height-adjustable handles: Promotes ergonomic posture.
- Simple handling: Easy-to-use adjustment mechanisms.
- Material: Lightweight aluminum or carbon.
- Handbrake: Must be easy to release.
- Stable construction: ensures safety.
- Simple one-hand folding mechanism: for transport and storage.
- Large wheels: Better handling on uneven terrain.
- Regular maintenance: Handbrakes must be tightened regularly.
- Puncture-proof tires: Increase safety.
- Reflectors or LED lights: For better visibility.
- Ergonomic handles: Reduce strain on your hands.
- Design and aesthetics: stylish look and different colors.
- Integrated shopping bag: practical and easily accessible.
- Stick holder: For walking stick or crutches.
- Tray: For safe transport of objects.
- Rain cover: Protects against rain.
- Gloves: For cold weather.
- Emergency thermal blanket: For longer distances.
- Thermos flask: Keeps drinks warm or cool.
- Reflectors and luminous stickers: Increase visibility.
- Bell: Enables safe progress.
- Lighting: For night walks.
Closing words
Many useful products are now affordable and can make the lives of older people much easier. It is important to support specialist retailers, but ordering online can also be an option. However, if you have special requirements, you should go to a specialist retailer.
