How do I get a walker if I have a disability in Norway?

1. Who can get help to get a walker?

You may be eligible if you have a long-term and significantly reduced level of function (more than 2 years) that means you need an aid for walking or getting around. 
The aids cover both home use, at the workplace, education and leisure. 

2. What is considered an assistive device, and can a walker be covered?

An assistive device is an object or intervention that makes daily life activities easier as a result of a functional impairment. 
A walker typically falls under mobility aids / walking aids, which can be covered either through loans or support from NAV - the Norwegian Centre for Assistive Devices. nav.no

3. Should I buy the rollator myself or can I borrow it?

In Norway, the main rule is that assistive devices that cover a long-term need are loaned out free of charge through NAV's assistive device centers. 
If an assistive device is not available via loan, in some cases you can get it subsidy for the purchase of assistive devices.

4. How does the application process work?

• Contact your municipality or NAV Assistive Devices Centre for needs assessment and guidance. 

• A professional (for example an occupational therapist/physiotherapist) will assess your need for an assistive device. 

• You submit an application on the correct form via NAV or the municipality, with documentation of disability and needs. 

• NAV / The Norwegian Centre for Assistive Devices processes the case and makes a decision; you will be notified in writing. If the application is rejected, you have the right to appeal. 

5. What must be done? documented in the application?

• The diagnosis or functional impairment that leads to the need for an assistive device.

• That the need is permanent/long-term and that the aid is necessary for maintain/improve activity or participation.

• That other solutions are not sufficient.

• That the rollator is adapted to your needs (indoors, outdoors, terrain, medical requirements).

6. What about cost and payment?

If an assistive device is loaned out via NAV/the municipality, there is normally no deductible for the aid itself. 
If you receive a grant for purchase, there may be a requirement for a deductible or upfront expense, which can later be refunded. This varies.

7. Can I get help with an assistive device that provides access to work or education?

Yes – assistive devices that are necessary for you to be able toget into work or education, may be covered by the scheme.
If the rollator helps you to meet at work or move around the work environment, this should be stated in the application.

8. What happens when you change jobs or move?

If you move to another municipality, or your workplace changes so that your needs change, you should contact the NAV Assistive Devices Centre in the new municipality for a new assessment. The aid will accompany you in temporary situations, but in the event of a permanent move, the scheme must be reassessed.

9. What if I am rejected?

You will receive a written decision with reasons. You have the right to appeal and a deadline (usually 6 weeks) to NAV's appeals body.
It may be useful to ask for a new assessment or get assistance from an occupational therapist or patient organization.

10. Practical tips when choosing a rollator

• Choose a model that suits you (terrain, surface, brakes, height adjustment).

• Get the opportunity for testing via the municipality or the assistance center.

• Ask for guidance on use and maintenance – Correct use provides safety and increased benefit.

• Keep documentation and decisions - you may need this if your needs change later.