Bariatric Wheelchair Seat Width
Seat Width
Having the correct seat width is essential to wheelchair users who spend longer durations in their chairs. Too narrow a seat will cause pressure on the hips and thighs which might lead to sores or pressure points. Having too large a seat can likewise make it tough for the user to reach the hand rims to move themselves or maneuver in small areas.
To determine the correct seat width a person would sit on a chair usually and have their measurement taken throughout their lap at the widest point which is typically their hips. A wheelchair measuring tape can be utilized to determine this, however a yard stick is chosen as it prevents individuals from wrapping the tape around their hips which would provide an unreliable result.
The basic wheelchair seat width is 16" (narrow adult), 18" (standard grownup), and 20" (large adult). For bariatric patients, a 24" seat is readily available. This sturdy extra 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
Generally, the seat depth of a bariatric wheelchair was added 2" to the measurement taken at the user's widest point (normally their hips). This was indicated to accommodate extra layers of clothing that may be used during cold weather. However, bariatric wheelchairs My Mobility Scooters is ending up being less common as wheelchair users are able to invest more time inside your home and are not wearing long coats. This makes the seat depth of a chair less crucial when selecting a bariatric wheelchair. However, it is still crucial to pick an alternative that offers adequate support for bigger users.
The Medline folding extra wide bariatric manual wheelchair includes a comfortable 24" seat width and a heavy-duty slide tube silver vein frame. It likewise has an adjustable axle and tool-free raising legrests.
Seat Height
When it pertains to determining the appropriate wheelchair seat width you ought to always determine from the user's widest point which is generally their hips. You will likewise need to consider whether the user is going to be using a winter coat as this may include 2" to the width needed.
When a wheelchair is in usage it must just be operated 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 likewise essential to keep in mind that any activity that might shift the center of gravity in the chair should be done with care. This includes grabbing items that need the person to lean out of their seat or attempting to stand up from it.
Whenever you have the chair in use it is suggested that you frequently examine it for damage and oil any locations that are considered needed. For example, the casters ought to be lubed by removing 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 preferred position. This allows the feet to sit comfortably on the footplate and prevents any pressure points from forming. This can be very uneasy for the user and if left unattended, can cause press sores.
Weight Capacity
Bariatric wheelchairs are created to support more weight than standard wheelchairs. This makes them sturdier and better geared up to handle falls. They are also usually larger and broader, making them less maneuverable in tight spaces than standard wheelchairs. They require cars with unique ramps and lifts to fill them, as well as drivers who understand how to finest transport them from one area to the next.
When choosing a wheelchair, consider its weight capacity as it will be the main determining aspect in whether it will accommodate your passenger's needs. The weight capacity of the chair is typically noted as a fixed load, meaning that it indicates the quantity of weight the chair can conveniently hold while standing still. However, some makers likewise list an active load that is based on a drop test and can imitate the result of somebody sitting down in the chair. This might be a more reliable measurement of the weight limit, depending upon your requirements.
If you plan to carry out activities that move your center of mass in the seat (such as reaching for objects), make sure to have front casters pointed in a forward direction and wheel locks engaged so the chair will not topple. Also, check that casters are lubed regularly to prevent excessive wear and abrasions. The lubrication procedure involves eliminating the fork, separating the caster from the wheel, and greasing the caster stem bearings with high-quality multi-purpose grease.