How To Apply for a Rollator Walker in Ireland – Free & Paid Options

As Ireland’s population gets older and more people look for ways to stay active, safe and independent, demand for mobility aids like rollators is steadily increasing. Whether you’re recovering from surgery, managing a long-term condition, or simply finding walking more difficult, a rollator can offer much-needed support.

The good news is that there are two main routes to getting one: applying for a free rollator through the HSE or purchasing one privately. In this guide, we’ll explain who qualifies, how to apply, and what to consider when choosing between public and private options.

HSE Rollator Support

The Health Service Executive (HSE) offers mobility aid support through local community health services. Rollators are included under walking aids, but they aren’t handed out on request – they’re provided based on clinical need, which is determined by a qualified healthcare professional.

While this route can offer full funding, it isn’t automatic. The HSE prioritises people who need mobility support in day-to-day life and are living at home. If you only need a rollator temporarily or for peace of mind when travelling, this might not be the right path.

Rollators available through the HSE are often basic models, and depending on stock availability, may be refurbished units that have been serviced for reuse. While reliable, they may not suit everyone’s preferences or lifestyle.

Who Can Apply?

You may be eligible for a free rollator through the HSE if:

• You have a medical card
• You have a mobility-limiting condition or disability that affects your ability to walk safely
• You require a rollator to function independently at home or in the community
• You are not already in full-time residential care
• Your need is supported by a clinical assessment, typically by an Occupational Therapist (OT) or Physiotherapist

It’s not just about having a diagnosis – the deciding factor is how your condition affects your daily mobility. For instance, someone with osteoarthritis who experiences regular joint stiffness may be recommended a four wheel rollator walker to reduce fall risk and improve confidence while moving around the house.

Where Do You Start?

Most people begin the process by speaking with their GP, public health nurse, or an Occupational Therapist. If you are already attending hospital clinics, a physiotherapist there can also assess your needs and begin the referral.

This first step involves a brief review of your current mobility, living situation, and any recent falls or injuries. If it seems that a walking aid could help, a referral will be made for a mobility assessment, which is the next stage of the process.

How to Get a Free Rollator in Ireland

The HSE process typically involves three key steps:

Step 1: Referral

Your GP, public health nurse, or therapist sends a referral to the local HSE health office, recommending that your mobility be formally assessed. The referral includes:

• Your medical background
• Functional limitations
• Reasons why a walking aid, such as a rollator, is being considered

Step 2: Assessment

A mobility assessment is carried out by a qualified OT or physiotherapist. They’ll visit your home or assess you in a clinic setting. During this visit, they’ll consider:

• How well you walk unaided
• Balance and fall risk
• Strength and stamina
• Indoors vs outdoors mobility
• Any environmental issues like tight hallways, steps, or uneven ground

They’ll then recommend a suitable aid. If a rollator is best, they’ll advise whether an indoor rollator or more robust outdoor rollator is appropriate. In some cases, a 3 wheel rollator might be suggested for tighter spaces or ease of folding.

Step 3: Approval & Provision

If approved, the HSE will provide a rollator either from stock or via an external supplier contracted by the service. In many cases, this is a basic unit without add-ons or colour options. Some may be refurbished and checked for safety.

You won’t typically get to choose the exact model, but the aim is to provide something that suits your basic needs.

Waiting Times

Waiting times are one of the biggest hurdles. Depending on your local area, it can take from several weeks to a few months to complete the entire process – especially if assessments are delayed due to staffing shortages or high demand.

We often meet customers who’ve been approved for a rollator but are still waiting weeks to receive it. In these cases, many turn to a private purchase as a short-term solution.

At Medpoint, a mobility shop in Dublin, Ireland, we regularly help customers who are in-between steps – whether they’re waiting for approval, in recovery from surgery, or have had a recent fall and need something immediately.

Shop Rollators in Ireland – Find 3 and 4 wheel options to suit yours or your loved ones lifestyle.

When Buying a Rollator Privately Makes More Sense

While the public system works for many people, it’s not always the best fit – especially if you:

• Need support immediately
• Want more choice of models, colours, or features
• Aren’t eligible for HSE support
• Want lightweight or premium models not supplied by the HSE
• Plan to use your rollator for longer outdoor walks, holidays, or errands

In these cases, a private purchase gives you more control. You can test different types, find the best fit, and walk out with the product the same day.

We often recommend that people try models in person if they’re unsure. For example, a tri wheel rollator is great if you need something compact and easy to fold, but someone who needs to stop and rest frequently would be better suited to a 4 wheel rollator walker with a seat.

VAT Relief & Reimbursement Options

If you decide to buy privately, there are a few ways to reduce the cost:

VAT Exemption

If you’re buying the rollator for personal use and you have a qualifying condition, you can reclaim the VAT. Most mobility aids, including rollators, are eligible under the VAT 61A scheme.

The process involves submitting a form to Revenue – at Medpoint, we can guide you through this and help you fill it out correctly.

Medical Card Reimbursement

In some cases, even if you’ve purchased privately, your local HSE office may offer partial reimbursement. This depends on funding, eligibility, and clinical recommendation, so it’s best to contact your local health office directly.

Local Grants or Charity Support

There are local councils and charities that offer mobility aid grants or support for older people. These aren’t guaranteed, but it’s worth checking with Age Action Ireland, your local Citizens Information Centre, or community health team.

Choosing the Right Type of Rollator

Not all rollators are created equal — and what works for one person might not work for another. Here’s a quick guide:

• Indoor rollator: Narrow and agile for use around the house, especially in apartments or care homes.
• Outdoor rollator: Built for rougher ground, these have larger wheels, better brakes, and shock absorption.
• 3 wheel rollator: Lightweight, folds easily, and ideal for quick errands or tight spaces.
• 4 wheel rollator walker: Offers the most support, comes with a seat, brakes, and storage basket — ideal for people who get fatigued.
• Hybrid options: Some rollators double as transport chairs, which can be handy if you need to sit and be pushed occasionally.

When in doubt, try before you buy. Our team at Medpoint can guide you through options and help you test models that suit your size, strength, and mobility level.

Conclusion

In Ireland, rollators are available through both public and private routes. If you qualify, the HSE can supply one free of charge – but it may take time, and you might not have much say in the model.

If you’re not eligible, don’t want to wait, or would prefer a lightweight or stylish option, private purchase offers a faster, more flexible solution.

At Medpoint, we’ve supported thousands of customers with tailored advice, proper fittings, and ongoing support. Whether you need a basic indoor model or a feature-rich outdoor rollator, our expert team is here to help.

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