How to Use a Rollator Walker on Stairs Safely
A rollator walker can provide valuable support when moving around the home or outdoors, but stairs present a very different challenge from flat ground. Rollators have wheels and are designed to remain in contact with a stable surface. Manufacturer safety instructions commonly warn users not to use them to climb stairs because doing so can cause the walker to roll, tip or become unstable. Medline, for example, specifically instructs users not to use a rollator to climb stairs and warns of a serious risk of falls or injury.
That does not necessarily mean someone who uses a rollator cannot use stairs. Instead, the person needs a safe method of navigating the staircase without using the rollator as their support on the steps. This guide explains the safest options, what to do with your rollator when you reach stairs and how to deal with smaller changes in level such as kerbs and single steps.
Can You Use a Rollator Walker on Stairs?
No. A conventional rollator walker should not be rolled, pushed or used as your walking support while climbing a flight of stairs.
Most rollators have three or four wheels. Those wheels make the device easy to move across level surfaces but unsuitable for staircase use.
Manufacturer guidance for several rollator models explicitly states that the devices should not be used on stairs or escalators. Medline also specifies that all wheels and tips should remain in contact with the floor or ground during normal use.
Trying to lift the front wheels onto each stair while leaning on the handles could cause:
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The rollator to roll backwards
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The frame to tip towards you
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The wheels to slip from the edge of the stair
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Your body weight to move outside the rollator's stable base
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You to lose your balance
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The rollator to fall down the staircase
For this reason, the correct answer to how to use a rollator walker on stairs is generally: do not use the rollator itself while walking on the stairs.
Why Are Rollators Unsafe on Stairs?
A rollator is designed for continuous contact with a relatively firm walking surface.
On stairs, that support disappears.
The Wheels Can Roll
Even if a rollator has brakes, the wheels are not designed to act as fixed stair supports.
A sudden movement could cause the walker to roll away from you.
The Rollator Can Tip
When only two wheels are positioned on a step, the rollator's normal base of support changes dramatically.
Pulling upwards on the handles can also cause the frame to tip backwards.
Oxford Health NHS guidance warns users not to pull themselves up using a rollator because the device may tip backwards and cause injury.
You May Have to Lift the Rollator
Standard rollators can weigh several kilograms. Trying to lift one while simultaneously balancing on stairs may place you at significant risk of falling.
Staircases Provide Limited Space
Rollators are considerably wider than walking sticks or crutches.
On narrow stairs, there may not even be enough room to position the walker safely.
What Should You Do With Your Rollator When You Reach Stairs?
The safest solution depends on why you use a rollator and how independently you can manage stairs.
Possible options include:
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Using a handrail while the rollator remains downstairs
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Keeping a second walking aid upstairs
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Keeping a second rollator on another floor
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Having another person carry the folded rollator
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Using a lift instead of the stairs
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Installing a stairlift when stairs are a regular mobility barrier
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Asking a physiotherapist or occupational therapist to assess your stair technique
Local authority falls-prevention guidance recommends having a walking aid at both the top and bottom of stairs when necessary rather than attempting to take the same aid up the staircase.
Using a Handrail Instead of the Rollator
If you are physically able to climb stairs and your healthcare professional has confirmed that it is safe, a secure handrail may provide support while the rollator remains on the other floor.
Before using the stairs:
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Position the rollator somewhere stable
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Apply the parking brakes
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Make sure it cannot obstruct the staircase
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Hold the stair rail securely
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Take one step at a time
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Avoid carrying bags or other objects
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Keep the staircase well lit
Falls-prevention guidance recommends good lighting, clear steps and secure handrails to reduce the risk of falls on staircases.
If you cannot safely use the stairs without the rollator, you should not attempt them independently.
Keeping a Rollator Upstairs and Downstairs
For someone who regularly uses a rollator around the home, one practical solution is to keep one mobility aid on each floor.
For example:
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Rollator downstairs
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Second rollator or walking frame upstairs
You can then use the handrail or another prescribed walking aid for the staircase itself.
Once you reach the landing, the second rollator is available for normal walking.
This also avoids having to transport a relatively heavy rollator up and down the stairs repeatedly.
Could You Use a Walking Stick on the Stairs Instead?
Some people who use a rollator on flat surfaces are able to use a walking stick and handrail when climbing stairs.
However, this depends entirely on your balance and mobility.
A walking stick provides much less support than a rollator.
Do not switch to a stick simply because it fits more easily on stairs if you cannot walk safely with it.
A physiotherapist can assess whether this is appropriate.
Can You Use Crutches Instead?
Crutches may sometimes be prescribed for stair use, particularly during recovery from surgery or an injury.
They require considerably more coordination and upper-body strength than a rollator.
If crutches are appropriate, a healthcare professional should show you the correct stair technique based on whether you are:
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Fully weight-bearing
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Weight-bearing as tolerated
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Partial weight-bearing
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Non-weight-bearing
Do not substitute crutches for your rollator without professional advice if you normally depend heavily on the rollator for balance.
What About a Stairlift?
If stairs are a permanent or frequent mobility problem, a stairlift may offer a safer long-term solution.
A stairlift allows the person to remain seated while travelling between floors.
A second rollator or walking aid can then be kept at each end of the staircase.
An occupational therapist may be able to assess your home and suggest adaptations based on your mobility.
How to Use a Rollator Around a Single Step
A single shallow step or kerb is different from a full staircase, but it still requires caution.
Importantly, you should first check the instructions for your specific rollator.
Some manufacturers advise avoiding kerbs and obstacles entirely. Medline, for example, warns users to avoid kerbs because they may create a serious fall risk.
Other rollators include a kerb climber or step pedal designed to help raise the front wheels over small obstacles.
If your rollator has one, follow the manufacturer's instructions.
Do not assume that because your walker can negotiate a small kerb it can safely negotiate stairs.
What Is a Kerb Climber?
A kerb climber is a small pedal or lever positioned near one of the rear wheels.
The user can place a foot on the pedal to help tilt the rollator slightly backwards, raising the front wheels over a small kerb.
It is intended for relatively small changes in level.
It is not a stair-climbing mechanism.
Never attempt to repeat this technique one stair at a time up a staircase.
How to Approach Ramps With a Rollator
Whenever possible, choose a ramp or lift rather than stairs.
A gradual accessible ramp allows the rollator's wheels to remain in contact with the surface.
However, slopes require additional care.
When using a ramp:
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Keep both hands on the handles
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Stay close to the rollator
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Move slowly
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Use the brakes gradually if necessary
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Avoid steep slopes
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Never sit on the rollator while it is positioned on an incline
Manufacturer instructions commonly warn that rollators require additional caution on slopes and uneven surfaces.
How to Use a Rollator Safely on Normal Surfaces
Safe everyday technique can also reduce your overall risk of falls.
Keep the Rollator Close
Walk within the frame rather than pushing the rollator far ahead of you.
Medline's instructions recommend maintaining good posture, staying close to the handles and taking small steps.
Keep Both Hands on the Handles
Avoid walking while carrying objects in your hands.
Use the rollator basket or bag when appropriate and within its stated weight limit.
Check the Brakes
Test the brakes regularly and before relying on the rollator.
Check the Wheels
Make sure the wheels:
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Rotate properly
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Are securely attached
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Are not excessively worn
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Do not wobble
NHS walking-frame guidance recommends regularly checking walking aids for loose joints and avoiding hazardous or uneven surfaces.
Adjust the Handles Correctly
The handles should allow you to walk upright with a slight bend at the elbows rather than forcing you to lean forward.
Should You Sit on a Rollator Near Stairs?
Never position yourself on a rollator seat close to the edge of a staircase.
If you need to rest:
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Move to a flat area away from the stairs.
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Apply both parking brakes.
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Make sure the rollator is stable.
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Turn carefully.
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Sit down slowly.
Manufacturer guidance warns against sitting on a rollator on an incline and against moving the device while someone is seated.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Trying to Roll the Walker Up One Step at a Time
The wheels and frame are not designed to support you in this position.
Pulling the Rollator Up Behind You
You could lose your balance or cause the walker to fall backwards.
Carrying the Rollator While Climbing
Unless you can independently use stairs without a mobility aid and can safely transport equipment, another person should generally move the rollator.
Relying on the Brakes to Make the Rollator Stationary
Brakes can reduce wheel movement, but they do not turn a rollator into a fixed walking frame suitable for stairs.
Using a Kerb Climber on a Staircase
A kerb climber is intended for small obstacles, not flights of stairs.
Holding Bags While Climbing
Keep your hands available for the handrail or prescribed stair aid.
Attempting Stairs When Tired
Fatigue can reduce balance and leg strength. Rest before using the staircase if necessary.
Are There Rollators Designed for Stairs?
Standard rollators are not stair-climbing devices. Some specialist mobility products may be designed to assist with stairs, but they are fundamentally different from ordinary four-wheel rollators. Do not assume that an "all-terrain" rollator is suitable for stairs either. Guidance for at least one all-terrain rollator specifically states that it must not be used on stairs.
Always read the manufacturer's manual for the exact mobility aid you use.
Find the Right Rollator for Everyday Mobility
A properly fitted rollator can provide additional stability and confidence when walking on appropriate surfaces. Explore our range of rollators and walking aids to find an option suited to your mobility, comfort and everyday support needs.
This article provides general information and is not a substitute for individual medical, physiotherapy or occupational therapy advice.