Bariatric Wheelchair Seat Width

Seat Width

Having the right seat width is essential to wheelchair users who spend longer periods in their chairs. Too narrow a seat will cause pressure on the hips and thighs which might cause sores or pressure points. Having too large a seat can also make it challenging for the user to reach the hand rims to move themselves or maneuver in small areas.

To determine the right seat width a person would sit on a chair typically and have their measurement taken across their lap at the largest point which is usually their hips. A wheelchair determining tape can be used to determine this, however a backyard stick is preferred as it prevents individuals from covering the tape around their hips which would provide an incorrect result.

The standard wheelchair seat width is 16" (narrow grownup), 18" (standard grownup), and 20" (large grownup). For bariatric clients, a 24" seat is readily available. This sturdy additional 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 (generally their hips). This was meant to accommodate additional layers of clothing that may be worn during cold weather condition. However, this practice is ending up being less common as wheelchair users have the ability to spend more time inside and are not using long coats. This makes the seat depth of a chair less crucial when selecting a bariatric wheelchair. Nevertheless, it is still important to pick an option that provides sufficient support for larger users.

The Medline folding additional wide bariatric manual wheelchair includes a comfortable 24" seat width and a heavy-duty slide tube silver vein frame. It also has an adjustable axle and tool-free raising legrests.
Seat Height

When it comes to determining the correct wheelchair seat width you ought to always measure from the user's best point which is normally their hips. You will also need to consider whether the user is going to be using a winter season coat as this may add 2" to the width needed.

When a wheelchair is in usage it should only be run on level surfaces 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 important to keep in mind that any activity that might shift the center of mass in the chair need to be made with care. This consists of reaching for items that need the individual to lean out of their seat or trying to stand from it.

Whenever you have the chair in usage it is advised that you routinely check it for damage and lube any locations that are considered required. For instance, the casters ought to be lubed by getting rid of the caster fork and utilizing a multi-purpose grease to use to the caster stem bearings. Likewise, the foot plates can be adjusted by loosening up the bolt and after that moving them to the wanted position. This allows the feet to sit easily on the footplate and prevents any pressure points from forming. This can be really uncomfortable 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 stronger and much better geared up to handle falls. They are likewise typically bigger and broader, making them less maneuverable in tight areas than standard wheelchairs. They require vehicles with special ramps and lifts to fill them, in addition to 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 primary determining element in whether it will accommodate your passenger's requirements. The weight capacity of the chair is frequently listed as a fixed load, suggesting that it suggests the amount of weight the chair can comfortably hold while standing still. However, some makers likewise note an active load that is based on a drop test and can mimic the result of someone sitting down in the chair. This may be a more trusted measurement of the weight limit, depending on your requirements.

If you prepare to carry out activities that shift your center of gravity in the seat (such as grabbing objects), make certain 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 lubed regularly to prevent extreme wear and abrasions. The lubrication procedure includes removing the fork, separating the caster from the wheel, and greasing the caster stem bearings with premium multi-purpose grease.