The Influence of Rollators with Forearm Support on Walking Speed, Endurance and Dynamic Balance

[Purpose] The purpose of this study was to measure the effect of structural components on walking ability by conducting tests using subjects who used combined rollator-wheelchairs and walking aids in their daily lives. [Subjects] Ten residents living in a health care facility for the elderly who required walking aids participated in this study. [Methods] We measured maximum walking speed (MWS), step length, cadence and conducted the shuttle stamina walk test (SSTw), and the timed up-and-go test (TUG) under three conditions (rollator with forearm support, rollator with handgrip and cart). [Results] There were significant differences among the conditions with forearm support providing the best results in terms of MWS, step length, cadence, SSTw and TUG, showing in improved walking abilities of walking speed, endurance and dynamic balance. [Conclusion] These results show that therapists should advocate using rollators with forearm support as a safe method of expanding the range of walking activities for elderly who use walking aids or rollator-wheelchairs in their daily lives.