My sister is using one that was my mother's so I can't give you price or name. I think they are easier to use and it has the seat you can use to rest.

My mother had several walkers and her favorite was a 3-wheel push walker with "brakes" on the handles like a bike brake.

I got it at Walgreens for under $100 for her

I just looked:

http://www.walgreens.com/store/c/walkers-and-rollators/ID=360591-tier2general

but they dont seem to have it any more, but do have the 4 wheel one(s). Hers did not have a seat (which my be convenient) but did have a basket which she found she wanted to bring things with her when going out from one room to the other. I can understand how a heavy walker that had to be lifted would not be condusive to convenience use!

Happy to answer any other questions I can for you, if I have the answers!

valal111, You hit the jackpot there. I have already scanned through some of those, but there were some that I hadn't seen before also. One question I have is about the difference between 6 inch and 8 inch wheels; which is preferable and why?
Sue

Hi Sue,

I have to say that I dont honestly know, but my guess would be that the larger wheels provide more stability.

I googled and came up with this consumer review:

This Nova rollator is narrow enough at 23 inches wide to fit through bathroom doors, yet has a wider padded seat than most walkers. The 8-inch wheels provide smooth maneuverability on all surfaces, including grass, gravel and even snow. Braking is smooth and easy, even for users with small hands. The curved, padded backrest flips up, and the whole walker is easy to fold to a 10-inch depth once the front shopping basket is removed. Assembly is tool-free. Many accessories are available, and Nova earns high marks for superior customer service and a strong warranty -- important since all walkers have parts that wear.

Here's the link where I found the review:

http://www.consumersearch.com/walkers

Based on the review, I might guess that the 8" wheels also handle different terrains better, which could be important.

You might check this consumer site out when you choose a model and see what they say, or google the model with "reviews" and see what comes up.

Best!
val

I do have one I have had it for a while now it's a Hugo which is one of the best brands. I use my wheelchair and scooter mostly these days. If I were buying one now I would get the one that is reversible so you can actually sit down in it and propel yourself similar to a wheelchair. The regular ones have2 fixed wheels and 2 swivel wheels so you can't really sit down and propel because you can't steer it. The new one has the back rest flips around to the front to put you in the proper direction to be able to use the swivel wheels to steer.

I will try to find a link it's definitely worth the money because it's much more useful and usable.

The bigger wheels equals more stability and better terrain use. I would not go with small wheels. Look at the Hugo, how it's built and the type of materials used, there's a huge difference in some of these. Cheap =cheaply made and can be dangerous. Go for one of the higher quality models.

Here's the dual duty navigator.

Hugo dual duty

I have been using a 4 wheel walker for 10+ years....many different ones and sizes but not the one raven linked to. It does look sturdy and the convertibility interesting. I find the larger wheels make the walker heavier... as it is the smaller one with the 'cheaper' appearance IS lighter and it does make a difference when putting it into the car.... and I usually have help with it, but hear the complaints. Yes, DH is old too! and, maybe our Civic SUV is small. So much depends on how much you NEED it. The NOVA one that you can get at Costco is my favorite and is usually less than $100. ($20. coupon many months)I think it weighs 13 to 15 lbs and I am able to sit on the seat when my back gives out. I often sit in it at restaurants because it is difficult to get up out of low, armless chairs.I think my 'trust' level is very low, as I would not be comfy being pushed in the one I have, but can,,,if browsing fabrics or cards...sit and push myself backwards along a display. I have visited many museums and museum-like places and been very successful using the walker...pushing and sitting in it. Today I have been using my scooter more than usual and can tell you that sitting on the walker seat is preferable to being so below everyone's eye level on the scooter. I have a walker in the house, in the garden and in the car always. Good luck in your search.

I'm sure you didn't mean that the way it sounded, chisue.

Gold Violin. Independent Living is a catalog we use. I just sawa rollator with a back rest that can be a transport and walker. Pricey, around $250.00 but I will consider it if my sister's ability to walk does not improve. Also, I have a great reading light from there.

I have narrowed my search down to at least knowing what I want. That would be large reversible wheels. even though they are heavier; I like the idea of being able to turn around, to get around in "rough terrain" in which case I would be with family and they can do the "heavy lifting." I want a cushion seat, not metal, and I don't need or want a basket. So far I have narrowed the list down to Hugo or Nova. I have found two local stores where they have some on the floor so I can "see and sit." My DD is coming on Monday to take me to see them, and help me decide. I realize I may yet have to order rather than buy off the floor. You all have been a big help with all your info and suggestions. Thank yo kindly.
Sue

Coming late to the party I know but a few comments to ponder. The therapists at the hospital truly disliked the "roller" type walkers since they're a lot less safe and having used one and watching people use them now, I totally understand why they dislike them.

I bought one off Craigslist for $35. It's a good, heavy unit, I believe it's a Nova, but would have to double check. I have the conventional walkers too (and of course canes) but seldom use the roller walker. I find it useful at the buffet. Can set the plate on the seat and do my thing then go sit down. It's nice to have the option to sit down when you're out. However the problems with them shouldn't be overlooked.

First problem, people don't use them properly. I notice women especially refuse to put their hands on the brakes. The therapists' concerns and I can see it and feel it when I use it, if you aren't paying attention, and stumble the least little bit, the walker can easily roll away from you and you go down. A conventional walker doesn't have this issue unless you put 4 wheels on them.

The second problem is when people use the brakes, they often don't use them correctly and wear them out which in itself isn't the big problem but people won't repair them. I looked at several roller type walkers and many were without brakes. That's downright dangerous.

If you're having trouble getting through doors with a conventional walker then you'll have trouble with a roller type too, maybe moreso. And my roller walker is far heavier than any of my regular walkers. I like the standard one better because when you get into a tight place, you fold it and still have the wheels to use as sort of a roller cane, then flip it back out and go on your way. I have one that is a very heavy duty walker. It's extra wide and has dual wheels on each side. Yes, obviously it's heavier than the standard walker but not as heavy as the roller.

I generally use the canes when I can. The back specialist and the ortho surgeon both prefer I use a walker (and not a roller). When I'm extra tired, I use the walker.

I'd suggest you watch Freecycle or Craigslist and look for a deal on one if you really want to go with a roller. You might find a different style walker you like better and for the price you can try them out and donate or resell it/them if you don't like. Just be sure the brakes work right and that the unit is in good shape.

Good luck finding one that is just right for you, Sue. My mother uses a Rollator. We have to help her get over thresholds but it's OK because she doesn't motivate at all unescorted. Her wheels are pretty small. At least we're able to get her moving and get her a little exercise and it's easier on us and our backs if she can walk a little.

Still debating. I think the Hugo dual duty is a good practical choice, looking forward. Problem is it is not available, and it is unknown if it will ever be. I like the idea of reversible wheels but can't find any like that. So the search goes on. I will mostly use one when the weather is good for walking around the community just for the exercise and to visit other residents. For Dr. visits, etc. my DD still takes me and I only use a cane on those trips. If it is meant to be, it will be.

Sue

there are several companies that now make the dual purpose units. Google search for rollator/transport chair comes up with several good options like these. The benefit to this type is that sitting in the transport chair side you can use your feet to propel your self around as if in a wheelchair, in the rollator side you use it as a walker. Having good brakes is essential and using them always is essential and locking them is essential. It is a learning experience. The ones with the flip able back are fine they are just a simpler device. All should fold up easily for carrying in the trunk.
carex

lumex hybrid very nice unit

drive duet

medline

I have a 4 wheel roller walker. It has a place that I can sit if I need to and a lid that lifts if I want to store something there. It also has brakes. I have another push walker that I walk behind for short distances. I use a cane most of the time. I use what I call my roller stroller when we travel because of the seat and most places the seats are too low for me to get out of. I love mine. It is hard to fold up. Mary

The larger diameter wheel rolls more easily over uneven surfaces. Small wheels stub on sidewalk cracks, holes, debris and small ledges.

Wheel locks or the ability to lock the brakes when the walker is intended to be stationary is a plus, especially one with a seat. There is less chance of an accident when sitting or rising from the seat if the walker is locked. Also, wheel locks/brakes can prevent a walker from inadvertently rolling away.