Bariatric Wheelchair Seat Width
Seat Width
Having the right seat width is crucial to wheelchair users who invest longer periods in their chairs. Too narrow a seat will trigger pressure on the hips and thighs which might lead to sores or pressure points. Having too broad a seat can likewise make it challenging for the user to reach the hand rims to propel themselves or maneuver in little spaces.
To determine the right seat width a person would sit on a chair typically and have their measurement taken throughout their lap at the widest point which is typically their hips. A wheelchair determining tape can be utilized to measure this, but a lawn stick is chosen as it avoids individuals from covering the tape around their hips which would provide an inaccurate result.
My Mobility Scooters is 16" (narrow grownup), 18" (basic adult), and 20" (wide adult). For bariatric clients, a 24" seat is readily available. This durable additional large 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
Generally, the seat depth of a bariatric wheelchair was included 2" to the measurement taken at the user's widest point (typically their hips). This was meant to accommodate additional layers of clothes that might be worn throughout cold weather condition. However, this practice is ending up being less typical as wheelchair users are able to spend more time inside and are not wearing long coats. This makes the seat depth of a chair less important when choosing a bariatric wheelchair. Nevertheless, it is still crucial to select an alternative that uses appropriate support for larger users.
The Medline folding extra broad bariatric manual wheelchair features a comfortable 24" seat width and a durable slide tube silver vein frame. It likewise has an adjustable axle and tool-free elevating legrests.
Seat Height
When it concerns determining the proper wheelchair seat width you need to constantly measure from the user's widest point which is generally their hips. You will likewise require to consider whether the user is going to be wearing a winter coat as this might add 2" to the width needed.
When a wheelchair remains in usage it must only be run on level surfaces with the wheel locks totally engaged. This is to avoid the chair from being able to move inclines that are 10 degrees or higher. It is also essential to remember that any activity that might shift the center of mass in the chair ought to be done with care. This includes 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 recommended that you routinely inspect it for damage and oil any areas that are deemed required. For example, the casters must be lubed by getting rid of the caster fork and utilizing a multi-purpose grease to apply to the caster stem bearings. Similarly, the foot plates can be changed by loosening up the bolt and after that moving them to the preferred position. This enables the feet to sit conveniently 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 pressure sores.
Weight Capacity
Bariatric wheelchairs are designed to support more weight than basic wheelchairs. This makes them sturdier and much better equipped to deal with falls. They are also generally larger and broader, making them less maneuverable in tight spaces than basic wheelchairs. They need vehicles with unique ramps and lifts to fill them, along with chauffeurs who understand how to best transport them from one location to the next.
When choosing a wheelchair, consider its weight capacity as it will be the main determining element in whether it will accommodate your guest's needs. The weight capacity of the chair is typically listed as a static load, suggesting that it suggests the amount of weight the chair can comfortably hold while standing still. Nevertheless, some manufacturers also list an active load that is based upon a drop test and can mimic the impact of somebody sitting down in the chair. This might be a more trustworthy measurement of the weight limit, depending upon your needs.
If you prepare to perform activities that move your center of mass in the seat (such as grabbing objects), make certain to have front casters pointed in a forward direction and wheel locks engaged so the chair will not tip over. Also, examine that casters are lubricated routinely to avoid extreme wear and abrasions. The lubrication procedure involves getting rid of the fork, separating the caster from the wheel, and greasing the caster stem bearings with high-quality multi-purpose grease.