Bariatric Wheelchair Seat Width

Seat Width

Having the right seat width is very important to wheelchair users who invest longer durations in their chairs. Too narrow a seat will cause pressure on the hips and thighs which could lead to sores or pressure points. Having too wide a seat can also make it tough for the user to reach the hand rims to propel themselves or maneuver in small spaces.

To determine the appropriate seat width an individual would sit on a chair generally and have their measurement taken throughout their lap at the largest point which is typically their hips. A wheelchair measuring tape can be utilized to determine this, however a yard stick is chosen as it prevents individuals from wrapping the tape around their hips which would provide an inaccurate outcome.

The standard wheelchair seat width is 16" (narrow grownup), 18" (basic adult), and 20" (large adult). For bariatric clients, a 24" seat is available. bariatric wheelchair 22 inch 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

Traditionally, 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 indicated to accommodate additional layers of clothing that may be used throughout winter. Nevertheless, this practice is becoming less typical as wheelchair users have the ability to spend more time indoors and are not using long coats. This makes the seat depth of a chair less important when selecting a bariatric wheelchair. Nevertheless, it is still crucial to pick an alternative that offers appropriate support for bigger users.


The Medline folding additional broad bariatric manual wheelchair features a comfy 24" seat width and a sturdy slide tube silver vein frame. It likewise has an adjustable axle and tool-free elevating legrests.
Seat Height

When it pertains to identifying the appropriate wheelchair seat width you need to always measure from the user's best point which is normally their hips. You will likewise require to think about whether the user is going to be wearing a winter season coat as this may include 2" to the width required.

When a wheelchair is in usage it must only be run on level surfaces with the wheel locks fully engaged. This is to prevent the chair from having the ability to move slopes that are 10 degrees or higher. It is also important to bear in mind that any activity that might shift the center of mass in the chair need to be finished with care. This includes reaching for products that require the individual to lean out of their seat or trying to stand up from it.

Whenever you have the chair in usage it is recommended that you routinely examine it for damage and lube any locations that are considered essential. For instance, the casters ought to be oiled by eliminating the caster fork and using a multi-purpose grease to apply to the caster stem bearings. Likewise, the foot plates can be adjusted by loosening the bolt and after that moving them to the preferred position. This permits the feet to sit easily on the footplate and avoids any pressure points from forming. This can be really uneasy for the user and if left ignored, can result in press sores.
Weight Capacity

Bariatric wheelchairs are developed to support more weight than basic wheelchairs. This makes them stronger and much better geared up to handle falls. They are likewise usually larger and larger, making them less maneuverable in tight areas than basic wheelchairs. They require automobiles with unique ramps and lifts to load them, along with drivers who understand how to best transport them from one location to the next.

When selecting a wheelchair, consider its weight capacity as it will be the main determining consider whether it will accommodate your traveler's needs. The weight capacity of the chair is often noted as a static load, indicating that it suggests the amount of weight the chair can conveniently hold while stalling. Nevertheless, some producers also list an active load that is based on a drop test and can imitate the effect of someone taking a seat in the chair. This might be a more reliable measurement of the weight limit, depending on your requirements.

If you prepare to carry out activities that shift your center of mass in the seat (such as grabbing objects), make certain to have front casters pointed in a forward direction and wheel locks engaged so the chair will not topple. Likewise, inspect that casters are oiled routinely to prevent extreme wear and abrasions. The lubrication procedure involves eliminating the fork, separating the caster from the wheel, and greasing the caster stem bearings with premium multi-purpose grease.