Going outside with a walker for the first time is a big step, both mentally and physically. Knowing how to do it correctly and safely makes the learning process less complicated. It is important to stay active despite a walking disability.
Outdoor rollator driving lessons
"Moving sufficiently within your means is extremely important to stay fit. So - especially then! - when you can walk less well. Your walker will support you in this. Make sure to learn how to walk with your walker and also have the courage to do so."
Mental Overcoming - a mental threshold to risk
The hardest part is the first step: to accept that you need a walking aid.
In this regard, the Rollz physiotherapist Anne-Wil Siegmund says: "Do you want to continue doing your shopping by yourself? Or go outside and take a walk? Stay fit? Your rollator makes that possible again. See it as something positive: Thanks to my rollator, I can continue to do all these things."
"Try to go outside with your walker every day if possible. I will explain to you here how you can do this as safely as possible. I also advise you to practice walking with your walker under the guidance and supervision of your physiotherapist or occupational therapist. He or she can provide you with instructions tailored to your personal situation. This will help you feel safe and know exactly how to use your walker safely under all possible circumstances."
Rollator Theory Instruction
To confidently go outside with a walker, you should learn how to handle your walker comfortably and safely. After all, you don't want to bump into a shin or trip when the sidewalk has a big hole or an uneven surface.
"Getting on and off a high sidewalk also requires some practice. How do you tilt the walker back correctly, when do you press the brake? Here we teach you the theory in our Rollz-Rollator driving lessons."
"Take the time to teach yourself," recommends Anne-Wil Siegmund.
"We assure you: This is not rocket science! You will definitely succeed in using your walker correctly! Focus on the goal you want to achieve with it. The only thing that has changed a little is the way to get there."
Prevent falls with a walker
"Unfortunately, it happens that people fall with their walker. Someone who has poor balance falls with a walker less often than without one. A walker always provides support. According to a report by the independent Dutch foundation VeiligheidNL, people walk more often with their walker and train their muscles, making them less prone to falls."
Accidents from falls with a walker usually occur when users do not know how to use their walker. Therefore, it is important that you learn how to move safely with your walker, and that is what this is about.
"Safe outdoors with the walker"
The Rollz physiotherapist Anne-Wil Siegmund says: "We will practice outside. Please ask someone who can help you safely try out the different driving exercises. Also, ask your physiotherapist for two, three, or four driving lessons with a rollator."
So much? - "In this way, you have the opportunity to practice well and under supervision. Over time, it will imprint in your 'muscle memory' and the new movements will occur more or less automatically. Then you won't have to think about it anymore."
