Bariatric Wheelchair Seat Width
Seat Width
Having the right seat width is very important to wheelchair users who invest longer periods 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 areas.
To determine the right seat width a person would sit on a chair normally and have their measurement taken throughout their lap at the best point which is usually their hips. A wheelchair determining tape can be utilized to measure this, however a backyard stick is preferred as it avoids people from covering the tape around their hips which would offer an inaccurate outcome.
The basic wheelchair seat width is 16" (narrow grownup), 18" (basic grownup), and 20" (large grownup). For bariatric clients, a 24" seat is available. This sturdy additional large 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
Generally, the seat depth of a bariatric wheelchair was added 2" to the measurement taken at the user's widest point (generally their hips). bariatric self propelled wheelchair was suggested to accommodate additional layers of clothes that may be used during winter. However, this practice is becoming less typical as wheelchair users have the ability to spend more time inside your home and are not wearing long coats. This makes the seat depth of a chair lesser when choosing a bariatric wheelchair. Nevertheless, it is still essential to select an alternative that uses adequate support for larger users.
The Medline folding additional large bariatric manual wheelchair includes a comfortable 24" seat width and a sturdy slide tube silver vein frame. It also has an adjustable axle and tool-free raising legrests.
Seat Height
When it concerns determining the appropriate wheelchair seat width you must constantly determine from the user's largest point which is usually their hips. You will also need to consider whether the user is going to be wearing a winter season coat as this might include 2" to the width needed.
When a wheelchair remains in use it need to just be run on level surface areas with the wheel locks completely engaged. This is to prevent the chair from having the ability to move inclines that are 10 degrees or higher. It is likewise important to bear in mind that any activity that may move the center of gravity in the chair need to be finished with care. This consists of grabbing products that need the individual to lean out of their seat or trying to stand up from it.
Whenever you have the chair in use it is suggested that you routinely examine it for damage and lube any locations that are deemed required. For example, the casters must be lubed by getting rid of the caster fork and using a multi-purpose grease to apply to the caster stem bearings. Likewise, the foot plates can be adjusted by loosening the bolt and then moving them to the wanted position. This enables the feet to sit conveniently on the footplate and avoids any pressure points from forming. This can be really unpleasant for the user and if left ignored, can result in press sores.
Weight Capacity
Bariatric wheelchairs are created to support more weight than basic wheelchairs. This makes them stronger and better geared up to handle falls. They are also generally larger and wider, making them less maneuverable in tight spaces than standard wheelchairs. They require vehicles with special ramps and lifts to fill them, along with drivers who know how to best transport them from one area to the next.
When choosing a wheelchair, 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 often listed as a fixed load, suggesting that it indicates the quantity of weight the chair can conveniently hold while standing still. Nevertheless, some manufacturers also list an active load that is based upon a drop test and can mimic the effect of someone sitting down in the chair. This might be a more reputable measurement of the weight limit, depending on your needs.
If you plan to perform activities that move your center of mass in the seat (such as grabbing things), be sure to have front casters pointed in a forward instructions and wheel locks engaged so the chair will not tip over. Also, check that casters are lubricated regularly to prevent excessive wear and abrasions. The lubrication treatment includes getting rid of the fork, separating the caster from the wheel, and greasing the caster stem bearings with top quality multi-purpose grease.