7 Things About Bariatric Wheel Chair You'll Kick Yourself For Not Knowing

· 6 min read
7 Things About Bariatric Wheel Chair You'll Kick Yourself For Not Knowing

How to Properly Care For a Bariatric Wheel Chair

Bariatric wheelchairs are created and safety-tested to support bigger weight capabilities without sacrificing stability or toughness. They include sturdy frames and seat widths that are larger than standard wheelchairs.

Facilities need to consider more than simply the variety of bariatric chairs they contribute to their waiting space. It is likewise important to make sure personnel acknowledges the weight capacity of each chair.
Frame

A bariatric wheelchair has a much more powerful frame to support a greater weight capacity than basic chairs. These frames are typically made from a sturdy metal like steel that will not bend or break under the user's weight, and they are coated to withstand rust from regular usage. This feature is very important since a chair that breaks quickly can be unsafe for the user.

Picking a bariatric wheelchair with a strong, long lasting frame will also help to extend the life of the chair by preventing unnecessary damage from everyday wear and tear. Furthermore, a wheelchair that is constructed from strong materials will be more comfy for the user, as it will be less likely to sag or establish other problems over time.

In addition to a robust framework, a bariatric wheelchair must be geared up with features that enhance comfort and security for the user. For example, a bariatric wheelchair with cushioned footrests can assist to minimize pressure sores by equally distributing the user's weight throughout their feet. In addition, a bariatric wheelchair with an adjustable footplate can be utilized to accommodate a large range of shoe sizes, making it much easier for the patient to get in and out of the chair.

Finally, a bariatric wheelchair needs to have functions that make it simple for caregivers to maneuver and keep the chair. This can consist of functions like a no-lift repositioning function, which is run by a simple foot pump and saves caretakers from straining or injuring themselves during transfers. In addition, a wheelchair with an assisted back recline can assist to improve posture and convenience for the user by carefully alleviating them down into the reclining position using pressurized gas cylinders.
Seat

For individuals with a bigger develop and mobility obstacles, bariatric wheelchairs offer superior support and comfort. They're created and safety-tested to hold more weight without compromising stability or durability.

Numerous bariatric wheelchairs include specialized seating to help avoid painful pressure ulcers and improve overall patient convenience. These seats can also make it easier to move in and out of the chair.

Bariatric wheelchairs frequently include swing-away foot rests, which can be swung out of the method during transfers. This makes transferring simpler for both the individual in the chair and their caregivers.  bariatric high back wheelchair , like the Vanguard, offer a "no-lift" tilt and helped back recline to even more help prevent pressure injuries.

It's likewise important to select a seat that accounts for a larger construct, such as one with extra-wide seats. Some bariatric chairs also have detachable arms to make side transfers simpler. For example, Broda's Sentinel Shower Commode features detachable arm and lateral supports for bariatric clients.

In addition to assisting avoid pressure injuries, bariatric wheelchairs can assist people with obesity stay active in their neighborhoods and homes. They can likewise improve their self-esteem by permitting them to take part in activities they otherwise may not be able to.

When picking a bariatric wheelchair for your facility, it's vital to have an extensive seating assessment completed by a competent health care specialist like an occupational therapist or an ATP. This will help you identify the individual's sizing needs, mobility objectives, and day-to-day functions to make sure the chair is correctly sized. It will also serve as evidence of medical need for insurance coverage purposes. Click to find out more about the advantages of an extensive seating assessment and download our complimentary Bariatric Seating Assessment Form.
Arms

The arms of a bariatric wheelchair are wider and more strengthened than standard wheelchairs. This is to offer a greater amount of assistance and comfort for the user, along with ensure safety throughout transfers. They also use more stability when the user leans on them for help. This makes them ideal for users who have difficulty standing or need extra support to assist them get out of bed.

The reinforced frames of bariatric wheelchairs are likewise developed to offer a better experience for the user, which can be especially important for people with larger builds who might experience discomfort in basic wheelchairs. This can cause a range of issues, including pressure ulcers and other health complications. A bariatric chair with cushioned arm and lateral supports, like the Broda Advantage Wheelchair, can assist to avoid these types of problems by supplying ample space for a comfortable fit and rearranging pressure to decrease friction.

A bariatric wheelchair can likewise provide the user a greater sense of independence and liberty to move about, which can be extremely beneficial for their mental and emotion. It enables them to go outdoors and carry out errands or see pals without stressing about their weight or whether they can securely use a standard wheelchair. The capability to move around can also help improve social interaction and enhance quality of life. For these reasons, a bariatric wheelchair is often thought about a need instead of an optional tool for those who need it. This consists of anybody with a body mass index (BMI) of over 30.
Weight Capacity

While standard wheelchairs can usually support approximately 250 lbs, bariatric chairs can easily hold up to 1000 pounds. With tougher building and construction and larger measurements, these wheelchairs assist bigger individuals preserve their self-reliance. For included security, much of these chairs also use features like no-lift repositioning to lower caregiver strain and offer more dignified care.

Adding bariatric seating to your medical center is an essential investment for clients with large frames. With a bariatric chair, your visitors can comfortably enjoy time outdoors and in social settings without stressing about being uncomfortable or compromising their safety. This mobility helps to cultivate a more favorable mood, which in turn results in better health results.


To select the ideal bariatric wheelchair, accurate measurement is key. Taking seat-to-shoulder, hip-to-heel, and armrest-to-armrest measurements can help to ensure that the chair fits properly. Then, you can measure for a bariatric footplate that will accommodate your special feet and guarantee that they are fully supported.

In addition to offering a safe, steady, and comfy ride, bariatric wheelchairs can likewise come equipped with a range of accessories that improve comfort, function, and design. From back bring pouches to swing-away adjustable foot rests, these devices can make your chair more flexible and functional.

Acquiring a bariatric wheelchair can be a pricey financial investment, however there are various funding alternatives offered to assist you pay for it. Discover more about finding a dealer near you, understanding your search results, and purchasing your wheelchair through insurance.
Care

While it is necessary to have a bariatric wheelchair that will satisfy your requirements, it's equally important that you understand how to properly care for the chair. This will help ensure that it lasts and stays as functional and comfortable for as long as possible. It is also helpful to consider including a couple of crucial bariatric wheelchair devices to boost safety, comfort, and mobility for the user.

Some examples of these include back walking canes and specifically designed positioning belts that provide extra stability to the seat, and avoid pressure injuries. Wheelchair cushions that offer exceptional pressure redistribution, such as the AliMed Bariatric Tri-Foam Cushions, can reduce the threat of pressure ulcers and improve overall health outcomes.

An enhanced durable frame uses sturdiness and stability for a bariatric wheelchair, specifically when carrying heavier people. Reinforcement can be included through crossbars in the frame, or through additional cushioning throughout the chair, consisting of the seat and back.

The right chair will not only lower the risk of injury and illness, but it can permit users to increase self-reliance in everyday activities such as consuming, bathing, and dressing. This can greatly improve quality of life and assist individuals to live separately for longer.

It's suggested that every healthcare facility offers high-weight capacity visitor chairs and overbed tables in its client rooms. This allows clients to be comfortably seated, which can reduce strain on caregivers and make them feel more in your home. In addition, these chairs can help to decrease pressure wounds, which can be both agonizing and expensive. Have a look at our guide on wheelchair specifications for more information about selecting the very best chair for your needs. QUICK TIP: When shopping for bariatric wheelchairs, it is necessary that you read the product descriptions carefully to ensure that the chair will securely accommodate your weight. Some products have a ceiling that varies from brand to brand, so be sure to consult this details when making your selection.