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I am a 77-year old woman living alone. Although I am very active and walk two to three miles every other day, I have trouble vacuuming my house. After just one room, I am short of breath and have to rest. My doctor suggested buying a self-propelled vacuum. Don’t these models still require pulling the unit towards myself? Will this really solve my problem?

Yes, a self-propelled vacuum moves forward without being pushed, but still must be pulled back. However, the units are lighter in weight and easier to move around. Most women don’t find pulling it back is a problem at all.

A second option is a canister-type model with a power head. This is even lighter than moving an upright self-propelled unit. Both types have been shown in studies to require less energy. With either unit, you can also slow your pace and take frequent breaks. Avoid vacuuming the entire house on one day. Try vacuuming just one room each day.

Reference: 

Joseph F. Norman, et al. Physical Demands of Vacuuming in Women Using Different Models of Vacuum Cleaners. In Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise. February 2003. Vol. 35. No. 2. Pp. 364-369.

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