Bariatric Wheelchair Seat Width

Seat Width

Having the right seat width is essential to wheelchair users who invest longer periods in their chairs. Too narrow a seat will trigger pressure on the hips and thighs which could result in sores or pressure points. Having too large a seat can also make it hard for the user to reach the hand rims to propel themselves or maneuver in little areas.


To measure the appropriate seat width an individual would sit on a chair usually and have their measurement taken throughout their lap at the largest point which is normally their hips. A wheelchair determining tape can be used to measure this, but a lawn stick is chosen as it avoids people from covering the tape around their hips which would provide an incorrect result.

The basic wheelchair seat width is 16" (narrow adult), 18" (basic adult), and 20" (large adult). For bariatric patients, a 24" seat is offered. This sturdy extra large 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 added 2" to the measurement taken at the user's largest point (typically their hips). This was implied to accommodate additional layers of clothing that might be worn throughout winter. However, this practice is becoming less typical as wheelchair users are able to invest more time indoors and are not using long coats. This makes the seat depth of a chair less essential when selecting a bariatric wheelchair. However, it is still crucial to pick an alternative that provides sufficient assistance for larger users.

The Medline folding additional wide bariatric manual wheelchair includes 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 concerns figuring out the correct wheelchair seat width you ought to constantly measure from the user's largest point which is normally their hips. You will also need to think about whether the user is going to be using a winter season coat as this may include 2" to the width needed.

When a wheelchair remains in use it need to just be operated on level surfaces with the wheel locks totally engaged. This is to avoid the chair from having the ability to move slopes that are 10 degrees or greater. It is also important to keep in mind that any activity that may shift the center of mass in the chair should be made with care. This consists of reaching for items that need the person to lean out of their seat or attempting to stand from it.

Whenever you have the chair in usage it is recommended that you regularly examine it for damage and lubricate any areas that are considered essential. For instance, the casters need to be lubricated by eliminating the caster fork and using a multi-purpose grease to apply to the caster stem bearings. Similarly, the foot plates can be changed by loosening the bolt and after that moving them to the wanted position. This allows the feet to sit conveniently on the footplate and prevents any pressure points from forming. This can be very unpleasant for the user and if left unattended, can lead to push sores.
Weight Capacity

Bariatric wheelchairs are created to support more weight than standard wheelchairs. This makes them sturdier and much better geared up to manage falls. They are also generally larger and larger, making them less maneuverable in tight spaces than standard wheelchairs. They need vehicles with unique ramps and lifts to fill them, as well as drivers who understand how to best transport them from one area to the next.

When choosing a wheelchair, consider its weight capacity as it will be the main determining consider whether it will accommodate your passenger's requirements. The weight capacity of the chair is often listed as a static load, meaning that it suggests the amount of weight the chair can comfortably hold while stalling. Nevertheless, some manufacturers likewise list an active load that is based on a drop test and can replicate the effect of someone sitting down in the chair. lightweight bariatric transport wheelchair Links to an external site. may be a more trustworthy measurement of the weight limit, depending on your needs.

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