Bariatric Wheelchair Seat Width
Seat Width
Having the correct seat width is crucial to wheelchair users who spend longer durations in their chairs. Too narrow a seat will cause pressure on the hips and thighs which could result in sores or pressure points. Having too wide a seat can also make it challenging for the user to reach the hand rims to move themselves or maneuver in small areas.
To measure the appropriate seat width an individual would sit on a chair normally and have their measurement taken across their lap at the best point which is normally their hips. A wheelchair measuring tape can be used to measure this, but a yard stick is preferred as it avoids individuals from covering the tape around their hips which would offer an unreliable outcome.
The standard wheelchair seat width is 16" (narrow grownup), 18" (basic adult), and 20" (wide adult). For bariatric clients, a 24" seat is available. This durable additional 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 included 2" to the measurement taken at the user's widest point (normally their hips). This was suggested to accommodate additional layers of clothing that may be worn during winter. However, this practice is ending up being less typical as wheelchair users have the ability to invest more time inside and are not wearing long coats. This makes the seat depth of a chair less essential when picking a bariatric wheelchair. Nevertheless, it is still essential to pick an option that uses sufficient support for larger users.
The Medline folding extra large bariatric manual wheelchair features a comfy 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 comes to identifying the appropriate wheelchair seat width you should constantly determine from the user's best point which is generally their hips. You will likewise need to consider whether the user is going to be wearing a winter coat as this may add 2" to the width needed.
When a wheelchair remains in use it should just be run on level surfaces with the wheel locks totally engaged. This is to prevent the chair from having the ability to move slopes that are 10 degrees or greater. It is also important to bear in mind that any activity that might move the center of gravity in the chair ought to be done 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 advised that you regularly examine it for damage and lube any locations that are considered required. For instance, the casters ought to be lubed by removing the caster fork and using a multi-purpose grease to apply to the caster stem bearings. Likewise, the foot plates can be changed by loosening up the bolt and then moving them to the desired position. This enables the feet to sit comfortably on the footplate and prevents any pressure points from forming. This can be very unpleasant for the user and if left unattended, can result in push sores.
Weight Capacity
Bariatric wheelchairs are designed to support more weight than standard wheelchairs. This makes them tougher and much better geared up to manage falls. They are also generally larger and larger, making them less maneuverable in tight areas than standard wheelchairs. They require cars with special ramps and lifts to load them, as well as chauffeurs who know how to finest transport them from one area to the next.
When choosing a wheelchair, consider its weight capacity as it will be the primary determining element in whether it will accommodate your traveler's needs. The weight capacity of the chair is often listed as a static load, implying that it indicates the amount of weight the chair can comfortably hold while standing still. Nevertheless, some makers likewise note an active load that is based on a drop test and can replicate the impact of somebody sitting down in the chair. This might be a more dependable measurement of the weight limit, depending upon your needs.
If bariatric mobility aids prepare to carry out activities that shift your center of mass in the seat (such as grabbing objects), be sure to have front casters pointed in a forward instructions and wheel locks engaged so the chair will not tip over. Likewise, examine that casters are lubricated frequently to prevent extreme wear and abrasions. The lubrication procedure involves removing the fork, separating the caster from the wheel, and greasing the caster stem bearings with premium multi-purpose grease.