Study indicates 80 percent of participants with Parkinson’s would benefit from using a rollator

Mobility equipment manufacturer Rollz International has revealed the results of a recent study, showing that auditory, visual and tactile cues can help break the freeze of gait seen in people with Parkinson’s.

It is known that exercise has a positive impact on the physical health of Parkinson’s patients, the manufacturer highlights. A rollator equipped with different cues or triggers can remove obstructive symptoms so that they will walk often and for longer.

The study, conducted by the research group Assistive Technology for Mobility and Sports and Expert Center Human Movement Technology from The Hague University of Applied Sciences, shows that 80 percent of the Parkinson’s patients who participated in the research benefited from using Rollz’ Parkinson’s rollator with different cues.

Rollz Motion Rhythm features a rhythmic sound signal, vibrating handles and a laser line projected on the ground. The rollator is linked to a mobile app, with which the cues can be adjusted and personalised.

Around 90 percent of the participants in the study indicated that they benefited from the sound signal and almost half experienced a positive effect from the vibrations. Both cues indicate the walking rhythm and help the user to stay in the personally set walking rhythm.

The laser line does not appear to be of added value for every Parkinson’s patient, but it can help to get moving from a standstill.

The research revealed: “Which cue works best in supporting the gait pattern in Parkinson’s patients differs from person to person and depends on the severity of the disease.

“Because the Rollz Motion Rhythm has three types of cues, the frequency and intensity of which can be set via the accompanying app, the Rollz Motion Rhythm can offer help to a large group of patients: 80 percent of the participants indicated that they would benefit from the use of the Rollz Motion Rhythm.”

The study included Parkinson’s patients who use a walker in daily life. Using the Rollz Motion Rhythm, these participants had to complete an obstacle course twice (including bends, narrowings, a slalom, and coming to a stop and walking away again).

Earlier this year, Rollz launched the Rollz Flex 2 rollator, which promises to offer “unmatched” comfort, stability and style for elderly and disabled clients. Built upon client feedback, the rollator supports an active lifestyle and is lightweight for travelling and shopping.