Bariatric Wheelchair Seat Width

Seat Width

Having the proper 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 might 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 move themselves or maneuver in small spaces.

To determine bariatric mobility equipment would rest on a chair normally and have their measurement taken across their lap at the largest point which is generally their hips. bariatric mobility equipment determining tape can be utilized to measure this, but a yard stick is chosen as it prevents individuals from covering the tape around their hips which would offer an inaccurate result.

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

Traditionally, the seat depth of a bariatric wheelchair was included 2" to the measurement taken at the user's largest point (usually their hips). This was implied to accommodate extra layers of clothing that might be worn during winter. However, this practice is becoming less typical as wheelchair users have the ability to invest more time indoors 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 select an alternative that uses appropriate support for larger users.

The Medline folding extra wide 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 pertains to figuring out the correct wheelchair seat width you need to always measure from the user's best point which is typically their hips. You will likewise require to think about whether the user is going to be wearing a winter coat as this might add 2" to the width needed.

When a wheelchair remains in usage it ought to just be operated on level surface areas with the wheel locks completely 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 move the center of mass in the chair ought to be done with care. This includes reaching for products 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 frequently inspect it for damage and lubricate any locations that are deemed needed. For example, the casters ought to be oiled by removing the caster fork and utilizing a multi-purpose grease to use to the caster stem bearings. Also, the foot plates can be adjusted by loosening the bolt and after that moving them to the preferred position. This allows the feet to sit comfortably 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 pressure sores.
Weight Capacity

Bariatric wheelchairs are developed to support more weight than standard wheelchairs. This makes them sturdier and much better geared up to deal with falls. They are also usually bigger and wider, making them less maneuverable in tight areas than basic wheelchairs. They require automobiles with special ramps and lifts to load them, along with drivers who know how to finest transport them from one location to the next.

When choosing a wheelchair, consider its weight capacity as it will be the primary determining consider whether it will accommodate your passenger's needs. The weight capacity of the chair is typically listed as a fixed load, implying that it shows the quantity of weight the chair can easily hold while standing still. However, some producers likewise list an active load that is based on a drop test and can imitate the impact of somebody taking a seat in the chair. This may be a more trustworthy measurement of the weight limit, depending on your needs.


If you plan to carry out activities that shift your center of mass in the seat (such as reaching for things), be sure to have front casters pointed in a forward instructions and wheel locks engaged so the chair will not tip over. Likewise, check that casters are oiled regularly to prevent excessive wear and abrasions. The lubrication treatment includes removing the fork, separating the caster from the wheel, and greasing the caster stem bearings with top quality multi-purpose grease.