Bariatric Wheelchair Seat Width

Seat Width

Having the right seat width is necessary to wheelchair users who spend 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 large a seat can also make it difficult for the user to reach the hand rims to propel themselves or maneuver in little areas.

To measure the appropriate seat width a person would sit on a chair typically and have their measurement taken throughout their lap at the best point which is usually their hips. A wheelchair determining tape can be used to determine this, but a lawn stick is preferred as it avoids individuals from wrapping the tape around their hips which would provide an inaccurate outcome.

The standard wheelchair seat width is 16" (narrow adult), 18" (basic grownup), and 20" (wide adult). For bariatric patients, a 24" seat is offered. This durable extra wide 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 widest point (generally their hips). This was meant to accommodate additional layers of clothes that might be used during cold weather condition. Nevertheless, this practice is ending up being less common as wheelchair users are able 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 essential to pick an option that offers adequate support for larger users.

The Medline folding additional broad bariatric manual wheelchair includes a comfortable 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 concerns determining the appropriate wheelchair seat width you must always determine from the user's best point which is usually their hips. You will likewise require to consider whether the user is going to be using a winter coat as this may include 2" to the width needed.

When a wheelchair is in usage it must only be operated on level surface areas with the wheel locks fully engaged. This is to avoid the chair from being able to move slopes that are 10 degrees or higher. It is also essential to keep in mind that any activity that might shift the center of gravity in the chair ought to be finished with care. This includes grabbing items that need the individual to lean out of their seat or attempting to stand up from it.

Whenever you have the chair in usage it is advised that you regularly inspect it for damage and lube any areas that are considered needed. For instance, the casters ought to be oiled by eliminating the caster fork and utilizing a multi-purpose grease to use to the caster stem bearings. Also, the foot plates can be changed by loosening the bolt and after that moving them to the wanted position. This enables the feet to sit easily on the footplate and avoids any pressure points from forming. This can be extremely unpleasant for the user and if left unattended, can lead to press sores.
Weight Capacity

Bariatric wheelchairs are created 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 larger, making them less maneuverable in tight spaces than basic wheelchairs. They need cars with unique ramps and lifts to pack them, along with chauffeurs who know how to best transport them from one location to the next.


When choosing a cool way to improve , 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 typically listed as a fixed load, suggesting that it suggests the amount of weight the chair can easily hold while standing still. However, some manufacturers also note an active load that is based upon a drop test and can simulate the effect of somebody sitting down in the chair. This might be a more reliable measurement of the weight limit, depending upon your requirements.

If you prepare to carry out activities that shift your center of gravity in the seat (such as reaching for objects), make certain to have front casters pointed in a forward instructions and wheel locks engaged so the chair will not topple. Likewise, check that casters are lubricated frequently to prevent extreme wear and abrasions. The lubrication treatment involves eliminating the fork, separating the caster from the wheel, and greasing the caster stem bearings with high-quality multi-purpose grease.