Both walkers and rollators can be incredible, affordable mobility tools for users who struggle to walk around independently. Whether you’re recovering from a surgery, illness, or simply need some extra support, these tools can help users safely maintain an active lifestyle.
However, there are some key differences between the two: it’s important that you select the right product for your individual needs. In this blog, we’ll go over the differences between walkers and rollators to help guide you to a confident purchase.
Walkers
Walkers have four legs which all stay firmly planted on the ground to support a user’s weight. In order to move forward, users need to physically lift the walker off the ground, then place it back down again one step ahead.
Walkers are great for individuals who need extra balance assistance. Because all four legs touch the ground at all times when bearing weight, they are a stable tool to partially support your body weight.
However, keep in mind that walkers rarely include a place to sit down. If you will struggle to lift a walker off the ground or need frequent rests, you may prefer a rollator.
Pros: A great tool to support balance and body weight
Cons: Requires arm strength to lift the walker for each step, does not include a seat to rest
The main difference between a walker and a rollator are wheels attached to the ends of the rollator legs. There’s no need to physically pick up a rollator each time you need to take a step– simply roll it forward. A rollator’s swiveled wheels are easy to maneuver, making it easy to quickly walk to your next destination.
Rollators include a brake system to safely come to a stop. They also often have a seat installed in the frame, giving you a place to sit and rest whenever a break is needed. As an added benefit, many rollators also include underseat storage to carry your bags and personal belongings on the go.
While rollators require less arm strength than a traditional walkers, they are not useful tools for supporting body weight or balance while in motion. Curbs and bumps may be difficult to navigate with large wheels.
Pros: Faster and easier to maneuver than traditional walkers include a seat to rest
Cons: Do not fully support body weight/balance, some terrain may be difficult to navigate
How do I choose what option is best for me?
Does the user have sufficient arm strength to lift a walker?
Does the user require balance/weight-bearing support?
Is it important that the user have a seat to rest on?
How important are storage compartments to the user?
In what terrain will the user be using the walker/rollator? Around the house? On sidewalks? Gravel?
The answers to these questions will be a great indicator of which mobility solution is best for you or a loved one. However, if you need any extra guidance we recommend you get in touch with our team of highly-qualified product experts! Armed with decades of experience, they’d be happy to guide you in finding the right walker or rollator for your specific needs.
Mobility scooters can be a great option for anyone needing an extra bit of support and independence to live an active lifestyle. By finding the right scooter for your needs, you won’t miss a beat in accomplishing daily errands, excursions, or even international travel.
When to purchase a mobility scooter
Do you or a loved one ever avoid going out because of the required walking or other fatigue the trip would create? Do you struggle to “keep up” with others? A mobility scooter can instantly make your life more comfortable, giving you the energy to accomplish more in your day.
Elderly users often benefit from mobility scooters, as well as those with a handicap or illness that impacts their mobility. Scooters can also be a great fit for individuals recovering from surgery, allowing them to get back to their busy lives as soon as possible.
Benefits of a mobility scooter
Greater Independence
Forget being limited to smooth pathways– the right mobility scooter can take you just about anywhere. With varying degrees of clearance, incline ratings, large wheels, and shock absorbers, scooters can handle all sorts of terrain: from grass to gravel, dirt, and more. Go wherever you need to with greater independence and comfort.
Many scooters can quickly become your most trusted travel companion! Portable scooters fold or disassemble into parts convenient to store in the back of a vehicle or plane overhead compartment.
Keep Up With Your Busy Schedule
Get more done in your day without losing energy. Electric mobility scooters don’t require manual force to move, meaning you or a caretaker won’t tire from pushing a chair. Incredibly, these scooters often travel from 5-20 miles on a single charge, keeping up with your most action-packed days.
Increased Comfort
Mobility scooters are designed for comfort, helping you accomplish all your tasks without strain. Sit back, relax, and cruise through grocery store aisles or shopping malls as fast as you’d like.
Most electric scooters also have storage baskets and compartments to store your bags and personal belongings without added strain.
Which Mobility Scooter is Right for Me?
These days, electric mobility scooters come in a wide range of models for your specific needs and lifestyle: from a simple travel folding chair to an all-terrain power scooter that can tackle snow and steep curbs.
The first thing to consider when choosing a mobility scooter is the number of wheels (really!).
3-Wheel vs. 4-Wheel Scooters
Both scooters are great options but have different benefits according to your lifestyle preferences.
A 4-wheel scooter is a great mobility option for those who live active, outdoor lives. They typically come equipped with a sturdier wheelbase, greater clearance heights, larger tires, and higher incline ratings. These scooters generally boast higher speeds and greater battery mileage, limiting the times you’ll need to stop and recharge.
On the other hand, 3-wheel scooters have tight turn radiuses and are better for maneuvering in narrow spaces. If you primarily use your scooter indoors, a 3-wheel scooter may be a better option. The triangular design also gives users more legroom to stretch out and relax. If you travel often, 3-wheel scooters are often lighter and more compact.
There are, of course, exceptions to every rule. Some 4-wheel models are designed for travel, while certain 3-wheel scooters can easily handle outdoor terrain. Every scooter model will have a unique set of benefits, so be sure to read the description of each.
In addition to the number of wheels, here are some other items to consider:
Weight Limit: What weight requirements would you like your scooter to accommodate? If you need extra support, consider a heavy-duty scooter with weight limits of up to 600lbs.
Range: How long do you need your scooter to travel on a single charge?
Incline Rating: Do you live on a steep driveway or regularly encounter hills? You may need a scooter with a larger climbing angle.
Portability: Consider where you’ll be taking your scooter. If you’re a frequent traveler, find a model that can easily fold or disassemble.
Storage: Scooters come equipped with a variety of storage compartments and baskets. If you’d like to use your scooter for regular errands, select a model with your desired storage space.
Style: Make sure to choose a color and scooter model that you love. Many models come in multiple colors, making it easy to match your personal style.
Add-ons: Consider any add-ons which are important to your ideal comfort and functionality. Such as safety lights, USB charging, LCD displays, cupholder, and more.
Our Bestsellers
While we stand by every mobility scooter in our carefully-selected catalog, a few of our bestsellers are a great place to start your search.
EW-72 Recreational All-Terrain Scooter
Looking for peak performance alongside a smooth ride? The EW-72 is at the top of its class. With a long-lasting 43-mile charge and a record-breaking 15mph top speed, the EW-72 mobility scooter is built for outdoor adventures. This stunning 4-wheel scooter has full suspension, extra-large tires, and a 6” ground clearance to tackle just about any terrain.
Pride Go-Go Elite Traveller 3-Wheel Scooter
Small but mighty! This 3-wheel Pride scooter is built with easy travel in mind. It easily disassembles into 5 lightweight pieces, connected by a front-to-rear cable, to pack up and take to your next destination. A unique wrap-around ergonomic tiller allows users to smoothly navigate around tight corners without strain.
Buzzaround EX Extreme 4-Wheel
A stable, comfortable scooter perfect for long-distance rides and travel. The Buzzaround EX Extreme 4-Wheel can travel up to 18 miles on a single charge with a top speed of 5mph. It’s packed with extra details and add-ons: from a plush stadium-style seat, to extra foot room and a super bright LED headlight.
Revo 2.0 3-Wheel Scooter
This 3-Wheel scooter effortlessly combines durability and versatility. This scooter can travel up to 12 miles on a single battery charge, and its generous 400-pound weight capacity makes it a great choice for a variety of users. The 40” turning radius and flat-free tires mean this scooter can adapt to many different environments, and an ultra heavy-duty drivetrain provides all the power you need. Traveling? Quickly disassemble the scooter into 4 portable pieces.
Need some extra assistance finding the perfect scooter for you or a loved one? Contact our team of product specialists, and we’d be happy to help you find the best pick for your needs and lifestyle.
If there’s one thing that everyone should look forward to at the end of a long day, it’s a comfortable place to rest. While traditional recliners and beds are comfortable, they aren’t always a safe solution for those with impaired mobility. If you or a loved one struggles with transitioning from a seated to standing position, lift recliners are a perfect solution.
While they may look like ordinary reclining chairs at first glance, lift chairs come equipped with powerful motorized systems to gently lift users from a seated to standing position with the press of a button. They’re perfect for those struggling with chronic illness, recovering from surgery, or anyone in need of an extra helping hand.
If you’re shopping for a lift chair for you or a loved one, the choices can seem overwhelming. How many motors do you need? What size lift chair? What add-ons or additional features should you consider?
With over 30 years of experience finding the perfect mobility solutions for our customers, we know a thing or two about what makes a quality lift chair. Here, we’ve put together a comprehensive list of the five top lift chairs in the United States available for purchase. Each of these solutions are top-ranked in terms of comfort, functionality, and add-ons.
1. Cloud MaxiComfort Power Lift Recliner
There’s a reason the Cloud MaxiComfort is one of our bestselling power chairs: overstuffed arms and very forgiving flex foam give incredible comfort and alleviate aches and pains. Dual motors allow for infinite positioning, and a patented scissor-box mechanism conforms the seat precisely to your measurements. The Cloud Maxicomfort comes in a variety of colors and sizes to fit your needs.
2. Viva Radiance
If you’re looking for an elegant, contemporary-looking chair that’s packed with features, look no further. Designed with infinite positioning functionality, you can charge your phone with the built-in wireless phone charger while you find your perfect position. This chair also features a state-of-the-art heating system: relieve muscle tightness with three heating pads in the lumbar, shoulder, and seat areas. This chair may also be a great selection for bariatric patients, as it accommodates up to 400lbs.
3. Cloud Twilight
The Cloud Twilight Maxicomfort is a unique lift chair that provides the ultimate zero-gravity experience. The chair base, armrest, and back all recline to eliminate pressure on your spine and maximize relaxation. Complete with a contoured seat, power headrest, and power lumbar, it will be difficult to ever want to leave the comfort of this chair. Select from 22 fabrics to perfectly match your style.
4. Aura Luxe Power Lift Recliner
Need a top-tier lift recliner that won’t break the bank? Consider the Aura Luxe Power Lift Recliner. This all-in-one lift chair grants incredible rest and relaxation at an affordable price. Quickly change to any position using the ergonomic hand remote and charge your devices with the convenient USB charger. The Aura Luxes includes deluxe fabrics that are incredibly durable and stain-resistant, ensuring it looks like new for years to come.
5. VivaLift! Atlas Recliner
You may not be literally carrying the weight of the world on your shoulders like the Greek god Atlas, but this Atlas lift recliner will effortlessly melt away your aches and pains at the end of a long day. Stylish enough to be the center of attention in any room, this chair is built with a breathable faux level and detailed contrast stitching. The well-padded backrest supports infinite positioning and accommodates users up to 375lbs.
Lift chairs can offer much greater independence for those struggling to transfer from seated to standing positions, but the benefits don’t stop there. Today’s lift chairs are equipped with a wide array of customizable positions, add-ons, dual motors, and more to provide the ultimate relaxation experience. Take a look at the lift chairs above, or browse the Med Mart site for even more options.
Still need some assistance finding the perfect lift chair match for you? Our team of product specialists would love to help– Give us a call anytime and together we’ll find the best-fit chair for you or a loved one.
Some people assume using a mobility scooter to get around means losing their freedom. In fact, the opposite is true. Using a mobility scooter enhances a person’s freedom to move about wherever they want to go. It allows them to be present and participate in activities with others instead of sitting out on the sidelines.
With a mobility scooter, you’re not restricted by the pain and difficulty of walking caused by arthritis, muscular disease, or other painful conditions.
All you need to do is choose the best mobility scooter to buy for your circumstances, take a seat, and off you go!
7 Different Types of Mobility Scooters
There are dozens of different types of mobility scooters on the market, each with its own features and benefits. To simplify the search for you, we’ve grouped them into seven categories (although there will be some overlap).
Don’t let the number of different types of mobility scooters overwhelm you—Med Mart just mentions them here for your information.
First, we will unpack scooters and their wheel counts. If you want to skip that and immediately determine the best mobility scooter for you, scroll down to the next section. Otherwise, keep reading.
1. 3-Wheel Scooters
3-wheel scooters are an excellent option for indoor use because they fit through tighter spaces and can easily maneuver around furniture.
Features and benefits:
The two larger wheels in the back and one smaller front wheel provide a tight turning radius.
There’s a lot of legroom, which is better for people who have knee or leg injuries or ailments.
The lightweight design means these cost less than 4-wheel scooters.
Price Range: $799 to $5,320
2. 4-Wheel Scooters
4-wheel scooters are great for handling general transport situations inside buildings. They’re also the best mobility scooter choice for the outdoors.
Features and benefits:
Two wheels in the back and two in front keep the scooter from tipping over, providing ultimate stability.
The four wheels grip the ground better, so it can easily handle curbs and small hills.
Price Range: $849 to $6,920
3. Folding Scooters
Folding scooters are a great option if you want a scooter on hand for occasional, short-distance use (like when traveling on vacation or to visit the grandkids).
Features and benefits:
The entire scooter folds up for easy storage and transportability.
Some scooters can fold and unfold via remote control.
The scooter’s compact design only weighs about 50 pounds, offering convenient transportability.
Price Range: $1,499 to $3,299
4. Portable Scooters
Portable scooters are perfect for taking on errands, shopping trips, and social events because they’re easy to disassemble to fit into the trunk of a car. No lift is required.
Features and benefits:
Small, lightweight pieces are quick to reassemble on the go.
They're quite affordable at a lower price than larger, heavier-duty models.
They’re easy to operate. You can focus on what’s happening around you without the distraction of too many functions.
Price range: $799 to $2,699
5. Full-Size Scooters
Full-size scooters are sturdy and have a far enough driving distance range to be used as your primary transportation vehicle.
Features and benefits:
There are advanced features for comfort, performance, and safety.
There’s plenty of room for your legs and feet, so you never feel cramped.
An attached hitch lets you connect a range of accessories.
A full suspension provides a smooth ride.
Price range: $1,844 to $6,995
6. All-Terrain Scooters
All-terrain mobility scooters are the best for the outdoors if you’re the type of person who wants to go anywhere without being held back by the rugged terrain often found in nature.
Features and benefits:
The high ground clearance handles dirt roads, grass, gravel, and more.
A sturdy frame, large pneumatic wheels, and a sound suspension offer ultimate comfort.
The canopy or shield option protects you from wind, rain, and other outdoor elements.
Price Range: $2,949 to $6,920
7. Heavy-Duty Scooters
Heavy-duty scooters provide serious riders with maximum performance and ultimate comfort.
Features and benefits:
These are built to carry larger loads with ease.
The seats are wider and more cushioned, so you don’t get sore.
Nicer, bigger wheels let you travel farther, quicker.
Price Range: $1,696 to $6,995
How to Choose the Best Mobility Scooter for You
There are so many options available that choosing the best mobility scooter for you is an easy task, regardless of what you need. Use our list and pick the one that will suit your needs best. If you have questions, Med Mart is here to help!
Indoor vs. Outdoor
If you’re planning to do most of your scootering indoors, you might want a portable 3-wheeler since they can turn tighter. If you’re planning on spending time outside, you’ll probably want a 4-wheeled scooter with bigger wheels, higher clearance, and a more comfortable seat.
How Fast Mobility Scooters Go
How fast a mobility scooter goes should be a significant factor in your decision. Depending on whether you’re riding inside, on sidewalks and pathways, or on the road (preferably in a bike lane), you'll have different requirements.
The speed for mobility scooters ranges from 3.6 miles per hour (perfect for home use) to 8.1 miles per hour (best for driving on smooth surfaces outdoors). Consider the areas where you’ll be driving the most to determine how fast your mobility scooter should go.
Tech Specs
Regarding technical specifications, there’s something for everyone’s body, lifestyle, and personality.
Seat Width: There’s a good fit for all, with sizes ranging from 14 inches to 23 inches across.
Color: Anything from black or white to camouflage or gold are available. You can choose your best mobility scooter hue.
Style: Feeling sleek, rugged, chic, or sporty? It’s up to you—each feature is a possibility, so there’s no need to compromise.
Features: Just a few of the possibilities include: Automatic folding Canopy Dual seat Foot pedal drive Power-elevating seat
Weight Capacity: This ranges from 200 pounds all the way up to 600 pounds, so absolutely anyone can ride.
Drive Range: Some mobility scooter batteries have a maximum range of 20.1 miles or more on a single charge.
Turning Radius: This can be as little as 35 inches.
You’d be surprised at the different styles and types of mobility scooters available for your needs. Check them ou
The most common reason that our customers choose to purchase a patient lift is to reduce the risk of injury to both caretakers and patients during transfers. Helping a loved one from their bed into a wheelchair or helping them up from the floor after a fall may seem perfectly safe. However, when these transfers happen frequently they can cause back problems in caretakers and extreme discomfort for patients.
Pools are a great place to cool off during the hot summer months. Unfortunately, many pools are not accessible to those unable to safely navigate a set of stairs or a ladder. One simple way to make sure your pool is accessible to everyone is to install a pool lift! This helpful type of lift was designed to safely transfer people from a wheelchair into the pool. There are a wide variety of lifts designed specifically for poolside access, so the team at Med Mart is here to help you understand your options.
Online shopping has become the new norm for many, especially during the coronavirus pandemic. Many businesses’ doors remain closed, and even those that are open may pose a risk to elderly or immuno-compromised shoppers. Whether you’re a savvy online shopper or completely new to the idea, we want to share some details about our website that will let you confidently shop online for medical equipment.
Customers often ask us about selling mobility devices that have been replaced or are no longer needed. Questions such as “Where is the best place to sell my medical equipment,” “Can I get a tax write-off for donating my used equipment,” and “Can I trade in my old products for new ones?” are some of the most common among customer inquiries. We want to help you understand all of your options, so the Med Mart team is here to answer all of your questions about selling or responsibly disposing of your old medical equipment.
Have you seen our Top 25 Products? Take a look to see our customers' favorite products from their favorite brands, including Pride, Golden, Med-Mizer, ArjoHuntleigh, and more! If you are looking for a power wheelchair, adjustable bed, patient lift, or another mobility device, this is a great place to start your search. Every product in our Top 25 collection has either a 5 or 4.5 star rating from our customers, so you can be sure that these mobility solutions are top-quality. We’ve highlighted 5 of our favorite products below to show why they’ve made it to the Top 25!
These are the last words that many of us want to hear, but the reality is that you can feel better and get a head start on that New Years resolution if you make a few small changes to your holiday celebrations. There’s no need to cut out all of the fun - enjoy a cup of hot chocolate and a few cookies by the fire, by all means - but there are several ways to make sure you are taking care of yourself this holiday season.
