My name is Dianne and I have recently purchased a byACRE Carbon Ultralight Compact rollator from Assist Mobility. This choice was made after considerable research, helped by my physiotherapist daughter's advice on criteria. I have named it Olaf, as it is of Danish design and manufacture. Such was my reluctance to start using a rollator that, rather than seeing it as an inanimate object to which I had to adapt, I thought it might help to see it as more of a friend. This has happened very quickly!
A Smart and Remarkably Lightweight Design
As well as having a very smart appearance — Olaf has been much admired — the rollator is very strong and durable, being made of carbon fibre, which is five times as strong as steel. Consequently, it is amazingly light, weighing only 10 lbs. Even at 88 years old, I am able to fold it up and lift it into my little VW Polo quite easily. It folds so flat that it is stored behind my bedroom door, so it is never in the way at home.
Finding the Right Fit: The Compact Model
As I am quite short now — 5' 3" — having lost several inches in height due to osteoarthritis in my spine, I realised, looking through all the byACRE models, that the only one which would enable the handles to be at the right height and to which a backrest could be fitted was the Compact. This model has a slightly narrower seat, so when wearing bulky winter clothing I find I have to approach the seat sideways until I have passed between the handles, then manoeuvre around to sit. I am then quite comfortable, as the seat itself is quite wide enough — in the summer, sitting will be easier. I mention this as one area where byACRE could look into a possible improvement: making the Compact model's seat the same width as that of the medium model.
Exceptional Handle Design for Better Posture
The handles are another wonderful feature of byACRE rollators. They face backwards, thus enabling the walker to stand right between the back wheels, completely upright, rather than stooping forward. Much better for the posture!
A New Lease of Life: Freedom to Explore
Olaf has given me a new lease of life, inasmuch as I am no longer restricted as to how far I can walk outside. I can only walk a short distance before needing to sit to take the weight off my spine and so relieve pain. If there is no seat or bench nearby, I am stuck. Consequently, I had to choose very carefully where I could walk — unknown territory was out of bounds. Now that I have my own seat always available, I can venture forth into so many places. Olaf can tackle fairly rough paths, small gravel, grass, even firm damp sand on a beach, and pretty steep slopes, as his brakes are very efficient in controlling one's speed. Using a small lift is no problem, as he can make a 360-degree turn with ease. Getting up a short flight of steps — three or four — is manageable too, as one can simply fold him up and carry him, still having a hand free to hold a handrail.
Freedom on Holiday and Beyond
I am delighted with my new friend. I know I can take the rollator on holiday and be able to walk outside in a completely unfamiliar area, on many different terrains, and not have to worry about whether any seats are available. I can walk for much longer periods than I thought possible, owing to the support he provides.
Having been a long-distance walker, mountain walker, and climber, and with being out and about in nature being the breath of life to me, you can imagine how frustrating life was becoming. No more!
Thank You
Thank you byACRE, and thank you Assist Mobility, for your wonderful service in enabling the smooth distribution of such a smart, innovative piece of kit to so many grateful customers.
Learn More About Olaf
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