Bariatric Wheelchair Seat Width

Seat Width

Having the right seat width is necessary to wheelchair users who spend longer durations in their chairs. Too narrow a seat will cause pressure on the hips and thighs which might cause sores or pressure points. Having too large a seat can also make it tough for the user to reach the hand rims to move themselves or maneuver in small spaces.

To measure the right seat width an individual would rest on a chair usually and have their measurement taken throughout their lap at the largest point which is usually their hips. A wheelchair determining tape can be utilized to determine this, but a yard stick is chosen as it prevents individuals from covering the tape around their hips which would offer an inaccurate outcome.

The basic wheelchair seat width is 16" (narrow adult), 18" (standard adult), and 20" (broad grownup). For bariatric clients, a 24" seat is available. This heavy-duty additional wide bariatric wheelchair from Medline includes swing-away footrests, a carbon steel frame with rust- and chip-resistant chrome plating, and easy-to-clean vinyl upholstery. It has a weight capacity of 500 pounds.
Seat Depth


Typically, the seat depth of a bariatric wheelchair was included 2" to the measurement taken at the user's widest point (typically their hips). This was suggested to accommodate extra layers of clothes that may be used throughout winter. Nevertheless, this practice is becoming less typical as wheelchair users have the ability to invest more time inside and are not using long coats. This makes the seat depth of a chair lesser when selecting a bariatric wheelchair. However, it is still essential to choose an alternative that provides adequate assistance for bigger users.

The Medline folding extra large bariatric manual wheelchair features a comfy 24" seat width and a heavy-duty slide tube silver vein frame. It also has an adjustable axle and tool-free elevating legrests.
Seat Height

When it comes to identifying the appropriate wheelchair seat width you ought to always determine from the user's widest point which is normally their hips. You will also need to think about whether the user is going to be wearing a winter season coat as this may add 2" to the width required.

When a wheelchair remains in usage it should just be operated on level surface areas with the wheel locks fully engaged. This is to avoid the chair from having the ability to move slopes that are 10 degrees or higher. It is likewise essential to remember that any activity that might shift the center of mass in the chair ought to be done with care. This consists of grabbing products that need the person to lean out of their seat or trying to stand up from it.

Whenever you have the chair in usage it is advised that you frequently inspect it for damage and lubricate any locations that are deemed required. For instance, the casters need to be lubed by removing the caster fork and using a multi-purpose grease to use to the caster stem bearings. Also, the foot plates can be changed by loosening up the bolt and then moving them to the wanted position. This enables the feet to sit easily on the footplate and prevents any pressure points from forming. This can be very unpleasant for the user and if left unattended, can cause push sores.
mymobilityscooters are created to support more weight than basic wheelchairs. This makes them sturdier and better geared up to handle falls. They are likewise normally larger and wider, making them less maneuverable in tight spaces than standard wheelchairs. They require cars with special ramps and lifts to fill them, in addition to drivers who know how to best transport them from one location to the next.

When choosing a wheelchair, consider its weight capacity as it will be the main determining consider whether it will accommodate your guest's needs. The weight capacity of the chair is typically noted as a fixed load, implying that it indicates the quantity of weight the chair can comfortably hold while standing still. Nevertheless, some makers also list an active load that is based on a drop test and can simulate the effect of somebody taking a seat in the chair. This may be a more trustworthy measurement of the weight limit, depending upon your requirements.

If you prepare to carry out activities that move your center of mass in the seat (such as reaching for objects), make certain to have front casters pointed in a forward direction and wheel locks engaged so the chair will not topple. Also, examine that casters are oiled routinely to prevent extreme wear and abrasions. The lubrication treatment includes getting rid of the fork, separating the caster from the wheel, and greasing the caster stem bearings with premium multi-purpose grease.