By kbeveridge
With 35 years of experience, Carex is one of the most trusted brands for rollators and other mobility aids. If you’ve been searching for a new rolling walker, you may have come across their product line. So what makes their rollators different from the competition?
The Carex Steel Rolling Walker is a budget-friendly bariatric rollator. It can support up to 350 pounds (159kg) and has a classic four-wheel design. The rollator has an adjustable height and a comfortable seat. However, it is heavy and unsuitable for tall people.
In this Carex steel rolling walker review guide, we look at the model’s features, pros, and cons. We also assess it relative to the competition and help you decide if this is the correct rollator for you.
Specifications of the Carex Steel Rolling Walker
Video Overview of Carex Steel Rolling Walker
Pros and Cons of the Carex Steel Rolling Walker
There are both advantages and disadvantages to the Carex rollator. You should consider both sides when making your buying decision.
PROS
CONS
Features of the Carex Steel Rolling Walker
Comfort
The Carex rollator has a padded seat that measures 12 inches (30.5cm) in width. It has ample padding for comfort and resting, but the width could be limiting. Especially considering that the walker can support 350 pounds (159kg), people at this weight may not fit comfortably.
The handles also have a ridged, ergonomic design that is gentle on the hands. The texture allows you to grip without slipping and could reduce the likelihood of accidents.
Safety Features
The Carex rolling walker includes dual locking handbrakes. You can turn on the lock when seated to prevent the chair from moving. It also has a padded backrest that keeps your spine in place and prevents you from falling out of the chair.
Overall, the safety features are simple but effective. However, you should always double-check that all parts are functioning correctly before you use the walker.
Durability
It uses a heavy-duty steel frame, which can resist ongoing use and small impacts. Because it’s a bariatric walker, it uses more robust materials to support the extra weight. Consequently, the rollator is heavier than other models, weighing in at 16.5 pounds (7.5kg).
Adjustability
You can adjust the handles’ height to suit anyone ranging from 5’0” to 6’1” (1.5 to 1.85m). This adjustment is simple and uses a straightforward sliding mechanism.
However, very tall people may find that even the highest position is too short. Therefore, they should opt for a different model, so they don’t have to bend forwards and ruin their posture.
Versatility
The Carex steel rolling walker is not the most versatile option. The wheels are suitable for a variety of indoor surfaces, including floorboards and tiles. However, they do not fare well on grass or dirt. If you need to travel outside a lot, it may not be the best option.
Portability
The rollator has a collapsible folding design that makes it easier to transport. However, because of its higher weight, it isn’t the most portable option. Seniors may need a family member or carer to lift the device in and out of their vehicle.
Extra Features
It has a storage compartment underneath the seat. This space is handy for carrying valuables, shopping, or any other essential items. Because the container is in front of the user, they can keep their things secure while in transit.
Who Should Buy the Carex Steel Rolling Walker?
People Who Need Extra Balance
Studies have found that using a rollator can improve your balance. It can also reduce your plantar pressure, thus improving your gait. Therefore, a rolling walker can be helpful if you are worried about falling when you walk.
If you live with a disease like Parkinson’s or multiple sclerosis, this can be doubly important. People with these conditions may struggle to balance and or walk without falling.
While a rollator isn’t suitable for leaning your weight on, it can help people with balance conditions to walk further and faster. A Carex rolling walker can thus increase independence.
People Who Need to Take Breaks While Walking
One of the best features of the Carex steel rolling walker is its comfortable, padded seat. Because of its positioning, you can stop and sit down on the rollator whenever you need a break.
This feature is essential for people who struggle with general fatigue. It is also suitable for those with conditions like heart failure or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
COPD affects the lungs and can make it harder to breathe, forcing you to take more frequent rests. Using a rollator can improve the quality of life for people with COPD by allowing them to travel further and longer. The seat also allows them to catch their breath as needed.
People with Moderate Strength
Rollators can be dangerous if you don’t have the strength to stop the device by yourself. The Carex steel rolling walker has handbrakes, but these mostly slow the rollator while it is in motion. If you cannot stop yourself, then you could fall or have another accident.
People Who Need Extra Support
The Carex steel rolling walker is a bariatric roller, meaning that it can support more than the standard 250 pounds (114kg). Therefore, it is a suitable option for people who weigh more than another rollator’s weight limits.
People on a Budget
Many rollators can set you back $100-200 or even more. Thankfully, the Carex rolling walker is significantly cheaper. Therefore, it could be a viable option if you have limited funding and need a mobility aid.
If you live in the US, you can also check out if Medicare can cover the rollator. If you meet specific criteria, the fund can subsidize the cost of the walker. Check with your doctor or another healthcare provider to see your options.
Carex Steel Rolling Walker Vs. Medline B079PG3BR3 Rollator Walker
The Carex steel rolling walker and the Medline B079PG3BR3 Rollator Walker have a similar price. Let’s see how the rollators compare based on their features:
The Verdict:
The Medline walker is bulkier and has greater restrictions on height. However, it can support outdoor use. Both rollators are excellent, depending on your needs.
Carex Steel Rolling Walker Review Conclusion
In conclusion, the Carex Steel Rolling Walker is a budget-friendly rollator that works well indoors. It has a comfortable seat and adjustable height to fit your dimensions. It also supports up to 350 pounds (159kg), making it an excellent bariatric option.
However, this rollator is limited in its use. The wheels do not navigate well in outdoor environments, so you may be restricted in where you can travel. The frame is also too short and narrow for people who are very wide or tall.
Compared to the Medline B079PG3BR3 Rollator Walker, the Carex steel rolling walker is more lightweight and suitable for taller people. However, the Medline walker works better outside. You should consider which model best suits your needs.
Overall, the Carex steel rolling walker is a suitable option if you need a little extra balance and support while you walk. The padded seat also allows you to rest when needed. If you’re looking for an affordable rollator, it could be an excellent choice for you.
Sources:
About Us - Carex Health Brands
The Effect of a Rollator on Plantar Pressure and Foot Balance during Gait in old-aged Adults
What Is MS? | National Multiple Sclerosis
COPD: Stages, Causes, Treatment and More
Effect of Rollator Use on Health-Related Quality of Life in Individuals With COPD
