Is Bariatric Wheelchair 24 Inch Seat The Best Thing There Ever Was?

Bariatric Wheelchair Seat Width

Seat Width

Having the proper seat width is essential to wheelchair users who invest longer periods in their chairs. Too narrow a seat will cause pressure on the hips and thighs which might cause sores or pressure points. Having too wide a seat can likewise make it difficult for the user to reach the hand rims to move themselves or maneuver in small areas.

To measure the correct seat width a person would sit on a chair generally and have their measurement taken throughout their lap at the largest point which is usually their hips. A wheelchair measuring tape can be utilized to measure this, but a yard stick is chosen as it avoids individuals from covering the tape around their hips which would provide an incorrect outcome.

The standard wheelchair seat width is 16" (narrow adult), 18" (standard grownup), and 20" (wide adult). For bariatric patients, a 24" seat is available. This heavy-duty 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 largest point (generally their hips). This was indicated to accommodate extra layers of clothing that may be used during cold weather condition. Nevertheless,  bariatric mobility aids  is becoming less common as wheelchair users are able to invest more time indoors and are not using long coats. This makes the seat depth of a chair lesser when choosing a bariatric wheelchair. However, it is still crucial to pick an alternative that provides appropriate support for bigger users.

The Medline folding additional broad bariatric manual wheelchair features a comfortable 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 must constantly measure from the user's best point which is typically their hips. You will also 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 is in usage it must just be run on level surfaces with the wheel locks totally engaged. This is to avoid the chair from having the ability to move slopes that are 10 degrees or greater. It is also essential to remember that any activity that might move the center of gravity in the chair need to be made with care. This includes reaching for items that need the individual to lean out of their seat or attempting to stand from it.

Whenever you have the chair in use it is suggested that you routinely inspect it for damage and lubricate any locations that are considered required. For example, the casters should be lubed by getting rid of the caster fork and using a multi-purpose grease to use to the caster stem bearings. Also, the foot plates can be adjusted by loosening up the bolt and then moving them to the preferred position. This permits the feet to sit conveniently on the footplate and prevents any pressure points from forming. This can be very uneasy for the user and if left unattended, can cause pressure sores.
Weight Capacity

Bariatric wheelchairs are created to support more weight than basic wheelchairs. This makes them stronger and better equipped to deal with falls. They are likewise usually larger and larger, making them less maneuverable in tight spaces than basic wheelchairs. They require cars with unique ramps and lifts to load them, in addition to chauffeurs who know how to finest transport them from one location to the next.

When selecting a wheelchair, consider its weight capacity as it will be the main determining factor in whether it will accommodate your passenger's needs. The weight capacity of the chair is often noted as a fixed load, indicating that it shows the amount of weight the chair can easily hold while stalling. Nevertheless, some manufacturers also note an active load that is based on a drop test and can imitate the effect of somebody taking a seat in the chair. This may be a more dependable measurement of the weight limit, depending on your requirements.

If you prepare to carry out activities that shift your center of mass in the seat (such as reaching for objects), make sure to have front casters pointed in a forward instructions and wheel locks engaged so the chair will not topple. Likewise, examine that casters are lubed routinely to prevent extreme wear and abrasions. The lubrication procedure includes eliminating the fork, separating the caster from the wheel, and greasing the caster stem bearings with high-quality multi-purpose grease.