Bariatric Wheelchair Seat Width

Seat Width

Having the right seat width is important to wheelchair users who spend longer durations in their chairs. Too narrow a seat will trigger pressure on the hips and thighs which might result in sores or pressure points. Having too wide a seat can likewise make it challenging for the user to reach the hand rims to propel themselves or maneuver in little spaces.

To measure the appropriate seat width a person would sit on a chair usually and have their measurement taken throughout their lap at the widest point which is generally their hips. A wheelchair determining tape can be utilized to determine this, however a lawn stick is preferred as it prevents people from wrapping the tape around their hips which would give an inaccurate outcome.

The standard wheelchair seat width is 16" (narrow grownup), 18" (basic grownup), and 20" (broad grownup). For bariatric clients, a 24" seat is readily available. This sturdy extra broad 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

Traditionally, the seat depth of a bariatric wheelchair was added 2" to the measurement taken at the user's widest point (usually their hips). This was implied to accommodate extra layers of clothes that might be worn during cold weather condition. However, this practice is becoming less typical as wheelchair users are able to spend more time indoors and are not wearing long coats. This makes the seat depth of a chair less important when selecting a bariatric wheelchair. Nevertheless, it is still important to choose an alternative that provides appropriate support for larger users.

The Medline folding extra wide 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 raising legrests.
Seat Height

When it comes to figuring out the correct wheelchair seat width you ought to always determine from the user's widest point which is normally their hips. You will likewise require to consider whether the user is going to be wearing a winter season coat as this might include 2" to the width required.

When a wheelchair is in usage it must just be operated on level surface areas with the wheel locks totally engaged. This is to prevent the chair from having the ability to move slopes that are 10 degrees or greater. It is likewise important to keep in mind that any activity that may shift the center of mass in the chair ought to be made with care. This includes reaching for items that need the individual to lean out of their seat or attempting to stand up from it.

Whenever you have the chair in use it is recommended that you frequently inspect it for damage and lube any areas that are considered essential. For example, the casters need to be lubed by eliminating the caster fork and utilizing a multi-purpose grease to apply to the caster stem bearings. Similarly, the foot plates can be adjusted by loosening up the bolt and then moving them to the wanted position. This permits the feet to sit easily on the footplate and prevents any pressure points from forming. This can be extremely uneasy for the user and if left ignored, can lead to push sores.
Weight Capacity

Bariatric wheelchairs are created to support more weight than standard wheelchairs. This makes them tougher and much better equipped to handle falls. They are likewise normally larger and broader, making them less maneuverable in tight spaces than standard wheelchairs. They need lorries with unique ramps and lifts to fill them, as well as chauffeurs who understand how to finest transport them from one place to the next.

When choosing a wheelchair, consider its weight capacity as it will be the primary determining factor in whether it will accommodate your passenger's requirements. The weight capacity of the chair is often listed as a fixed load, meaning that it shows the amount of weight the chair can comfortably hold while stalling. Nevertheless, some manufacturers likewise list an active load that is based upon a drop test and can replicate the impact of someone taking a seat in the chair. My Mobility Scooters might be a more reputable measurement of the weight limit, depending on your requirements.

If you prepare to perform activities that shift your center of mass in the seat (such as reaching for items), make sure to have front casters pointed in a forward direction and wheel locks engaged so the chair will not tip over. Also, check that casters are lubricated regularly 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.