Bariatric Wheelchair Seat Width

Seat Width

Having the appropriate seat width is important to wheelchair users who invest longer durations 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 broad a seat can also make it challenging for the user to reach the hand rims to propel themselves or maneuver in small spaces.

To measure the correct seat width an individual would rest on a chair typically and have their measurement taken across their lap at the best point which is generally their hips. A wheelchair measuring tape can be used to determine this, but a lawn stick is preferred as it avoids individuals from covering the tape around their hips which would offer an inaccurate outcome.

bariatric heavy duty transport wheelchair is 16" (narrow adult), 18" (basic adult), and 20" (broad adult). For bariatric patients, a 24" seat is offered. This durable extra broad bariatric wheelchair from Medline features 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 largest point (generally their hips). This was meant to accommodate extra layers of clothing that might be worn throughout winter. Nevertheless, this practice is becoming less typical as wheelchair users have the ability to spend more time inside your home and are not using long coats. This makes the seat depth of a chair less crucial when choosing a bariatric wheelchair. Nevertheless, it is still important to pick an option that provides appropriate support for larger users.

The Medline folding additional large bariatric manual wheelchair features a comfortable 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 determining the right 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 include 2" to the width required.

When a wheelchair remains in use it ought to only be operated on level surface areas with the wheel locks totally engaged. This is to prevent the chair from being able to move inclines that are 10 degrees or greater. It is likewise important to bear in mind that any activity that might move the center of mass in the chair must be made with care. This includes reaching for items that require the person to lean out of their seat or attempting to stand up from it.

Whenever you have the chair in use it is advised that you routinely examine it for damage and lube any areas that are deemed required. 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 changed by loosening up the bolt and after that moving them to the desired position. This enables the feet to sit easily on the footplate and avoids any pressure points from forming. This can be very unpleasant for the user and if left ignored, can lead to press sores.

Weight Capacity

Bariatric wheelchairs are developed to support more weight than standard wheelchairs. This makes them tougher and much better equipped to handle falls. They are likewise usually larger and broader, making them less maneuverable in tight spaces than basic wheelchairs. They require automobiles with special ramps and lifts to fill 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 factor in whether it will accommodate your passenger's requirements. The weight capacity of the chair is often listed as a fixed load, indicating that it indicates the quantity of weight the chair can easily hold while standing still. Nevertheless, some producers likewise list an active load that is based upon a drop test and can imitate the result of someone sitting down in the chair. This might 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 items), make sure to have front casters pointed in a forward direction and wheel locks engaged so the chair will not tip over. Likewise, inspect that casters are oiled regularly to prevent excessive wear and abrasions. The lubrication treatment involves eliminating the fork, separating the caster from the wheel, and greasing the caster stem bearings with premium multi-purpose grease.