Seven Reasons Why Bariatric Wheelchair 24 Inch Seat Is So Important
Bariatric Wheelchair Seat Width
Seat Width
Having the right seat width is essential 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 wide a seat can also make it tough for the user to reach the hand rims to propel themselves or maneuver in small areas.
To measure the right seat width a person would rest on a chair typically and have their measurement taken across their lap at the best point which is usually their hips. A wheelchair determining tape can be utilized to measure this, but a backyard stick is chosen as it avoids people from covering the tape around their hips which would provide an inaccurate result.
The standard wheelchair seat width is 16" (narrow grownup), 18" (standard adult), and 20" (broad adult). For bariatric clients, 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
Traditionally, the seat depth of a bariatric wheelchair was added 2" to the measurement taken at the user's largest point (usually their hips). This was implied to accommodate additional layers of clothes that might be used during cold weather condition. However, this practice is ending up being less common as wheelchair users have the ability to spend more time inside and are not using long coats. This makes the seat depth of a chair less important when choosing a bariatric wheelchair. However, it is still essential to select an option that provides adequate assistance for larger users.
The Medline folding additional large bariatric manual wheelchair features a comfortable 24" seat width and a durable slide tube silver vein frame. It also has an adjustable axle and tool-free elevating legrests.
Seat Height
When it pertains to identifying the right wheelchair seat width you need to always determine from the user's widest 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 add 2" to the width needed.
When bariatric high back wheelchair remains in use it need to only 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 higher. It is likewise essential to remember that any activity that may move the center of mass in the chair must be finished with care. This includes reaching for products that need the individual to lean out of their seat or attempting to stand up from it.
Whenever you have the chair in use it is advised that you routinely inspect it for damage and lube any locations that are considered essential. For instance, the casters must be oiled by removing the caster fork and using a multi-purpose grease to apply to the caster stem bearings. Also, the foot plates can be adjusted by loosening up the bolt and then moving them to the desired position. This allows the feet to sit comfortably on the footplate and prevents any pressure points from forming. This can be extremely unpleasant for the user and if left ignored, can lead to press sores.
Weight Capacity
Bariatric wheelchairs are designed to support more weight than standard wheelchairs. This makes them stronger and better equipped to manage falls. They are also typically bigger and broader, making them less maneuverable in tight areas than standard wheelchairs. They require vehicles with unique ramps and lifts to fill them, in addition to motorists who understand how to finest transport them from one place to the next.
When picking a wheelchair, consider its weight capacity as it will be the primary determining element in whether it will accommodate your passenger's needs. The weight capacity of the chair is frequently listed as a static load, implying that it suggests the amount of weight the chair can conveniently hold while standing still. Nevertheless, some makers also list an active load that is based on a drop test and can replicate the impact of someone sitting down in the chair. This might be a more trustworthy measurement of the weight limit, depending on your needs.

If you plan to perform activities that shift your center of mass in the seat (such as grabbing items), be sure to have front casters pointed in a forward direction and wheel locks engaged so the chair will not tip over. Also, inspect that casters are lubricated frequently to prevent excessive 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 premium multi-purpose grease.