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 might cause sores or pressure points. Having too wide a seat can also make it tough for the user to reach the hand rims to move themselves or maneuver in little areas.
To measure the proper seat width an individual would rest on a chair usually and have their measurement taken across their lap at the widest point which is normally their hips. A wheelchair measuring tape can be used to measure this, but a backyard stick is chosen as it prevents 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 adult), and 20" (large grownup). For bariatric clients, a 24" seat is available. This sturdy additional wide 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
Typically, the seat depth of a bariatric wheelchair was included 2" to the measurement taken at the user's best point (normally their hips). This was meant to accommodate additional layers of clothes that may be used during cold weather. Nevertheless, this practice is ending up being less typical as wheelchair users are able to spend more time inside and are not using long coats. This makes the seat depth of a chair less essential when selecting a bariatric wheelchair. Nevertheless, it is still essential to pick an alternative that provides sufficient support for larger users.
The Medline folding additional large bariatric manual wheelchair features a comfy 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 comes to determining the proper wheelchair seat width you must constantly determine from the user's best point which is typically 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 required.
When a wheelchair remains in use it should just be operated on level surfaces with the wheel locks completely engaged. This is to prevent the chair from being able to move inclines that are 10 degrees or higher. It is also important to remember that any activity that might move the center of gravity in the chair need to be done with care. This includes grabbing items that require the person to lean out of their seat or trying to stand up from it.
Whenever you have the chair in usage it is advised that you regularly check it for damage and lubricate any areas that are deemed essential. For instance, the casters should be oiled by getting rid of 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 up the bolt and then 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 unattended, can lead to press sores.
Weight Capacity
Bariatric wheelchairs are designed to support more weight than standard wheelchairs. This makes them tougher and much better equipped to handle falls. They are also typically larger and wider, making them less maneuverable in tight spaces than basic wheelchairs. My Mobility Scooters need automobiles with special ramps and lifts to pack them, along with motorists who know how to best transport them from one place to the next.
When choosing a wheelchair, consider its weight capacity as it will be the primary determining consider whether it will accommodate your guest's needs. The weight capacity of the chair is often listed as a fixed load, suggesting that it shows the quantity of weight the chair can conveniently hold while standing still. However, some manufacturers likewise note an active load that is based on a drop test and can simulate the result of someone sitting down in the chair. This might be a more trustworthy measurement of the weight limit, depending on your requirements.
If you plan to carry out activities that move your center of mass in the seat (such as reaching for items), be sure to have front casters pointed in a forward direction and wheel locks engaged so the chair will not topple. Also, inspect that casters are oiled frequently to prevent excessive wear and abrasions. The lubrication treatment involves getting rid of the fork, separating the caster from the wheel, and greasing the caster stem bearings with high-quality multi-purpose grease.