Choosing the Right Bariatric Wheelchair
Bariatric wheelchairs are designed to support larger weight capacities and offer wider seating choices than basic wheelchairs. They likewise include sturdy frames built with long lasting materials to make sure long-lasting reliability and security.
Understanding how to choose the ideal bariatric wheelchair for your needs is an essential very first action towards enhancing mobility and self-reliance. To assist you in this process, let's check out the essential elements to think about when picking a chair.
Frame
The frame of a bariatric wheelchair is specially engineered to be more resilient and strong to support the weight of heavier users. They also have broader seats and frames to offer higher comfort for users of bigger statures. This makes bariatric wheelchairs ideal for patients with conditions that make walking hard due to discomfort, stiffness, or minimized endurance.
There are several kinds of wheelchair frames, each designed to meet particular requirements for a vast array of customers. Pediatric manual chairs have a narrower frame to accommodate growth and might be repaired or folding depending on the customer's needs. Adult bariatric frames are broader to support the weight of heavier users and include a higher seat-to-floor height for much easier stand pivot transfers. Some frames have a removable cushioned elevating leg rest that is adjustable to offer a comfortable position for the user.
A rigid frame is lighter and more steady than a collapsible chair. It has fewer prospective damage points and can be more energy-efficient as it directs all of the customer's energy towards moving the chair forward. It is often chosen by bariatric clients since it supplies the stability and comfort they require to get through doors and other tight spaces.
A bariatric wheelchair's frame need to be thoroughly preserved to avoid damage and wear. This includes frequently inspecting for loose parts and keeping the upholstery tidy. It's likewise crucial to follow the manufacturer's maintenance standards for the wheelchair. This will assist keep it in great working order for as long as possible so the client can continue to delight in mobility and independence. For instance, the chair needs to be inspected to ensure that the brakes are operating effectively and that they're not used or harmed.
Seat
Selecting the right bariatric wheelchair allows clients to stay mobile without the threats connected with bed rest. This lowers problems, such as muscle atrophy, gastrointestinal issues and depression. It also prevents pressure injuries from establishing that can be both unpleasant and pricey to deal with.
Unlike standard wheelchairs, which have lighter frames and smaller wheel sizes, bariatric chairs are constructed with durable materials that can support larger users with greater convenience. These sturdier chairs usually have wider seat widths and a greater weight capacity than conventional designs. Their size can make them more hard to transport, however BriteLift offers custom cars that are specifically designed for wheelchairs and their guests.
When choosing a bariatric chair, it's essential to consider the weight capacity and dimensions in relation to the user's everyday requirements. A seating evaluation with an occupational therapist or ATP will help ensure that the chair satisfies both the individual's sizing requirements and mobility objectives. The results of this assessment can also be utilized to demonstrate medical need for insurance purposes.
It's likewise important to keep in mind that the weight capacity listed for a chair is normally a fixed load, while the active load is the amount of weight the chair can hold when someone sits in it. To test the real load limit of a chair, it is executed a drop test that imitates the action of someone plopping down into it. This makes the active load measurement a more precise representation of what the chair can actually do.
Armrests
While standard wheelchairs include a variety of standard armrests, bariatric chairs are created to accommodate individuals with different requirements. For example, some offer padded armrests that are a good choice for those with arm weakness or restricted variety of motion. They also feature a range of seating choices that can offer much better support for individuals who are heavier or need additional stability.
Bariatric wheelchairs likewise include enhanced parts that help them endure greater weight capacities without compromising stability and durability. For example, some designs include a reinforced frame at all crucial load-bearing points, while others have large wheels to facilitate higher maneuverability. They might also have more functions that cater to the needs of specific people, such as a commode seat that allows for easy transfer in and out of the chair.
For instance, the Medline Excel Extra-Wide Wheelchair comes with a deluxe nylon upholstered seat that is strong and durable. It includes a chart pocket on the back upholstery and full-length removable padded armrests. Users can choose in between swing away or elevating foot rests that deal personalized height settings. Its 8" sturdy front swivel wheels and strengthened front fork make it simpler to maneuver in numerous indoor and outside environments. Each model includes a hammer tone paint surface to offer an appealing and long-lasting look. This is the ideal wheelchair for bariatric users with a weight capacity approximately 1,000 pounds.
Footrests
Unlike basic wheelchairs, bariatric chairs come equipped with much heavier frames built from enhanced materials like steel and larger-sized wheels. Their larger size assists to distribute weight more evenly for higher stability and maneuverability. These features are highlighted in Medline's folding additional broad bariatric wheelchair, with 2 8" durable front swivel castors and strengthened front forks that offer unrivaled strength and stability in motion. This chair likewise includes padded desk-length armrests and tool-free adjustable footrests. It can support users as much as 500 pounds.
Devices
Bariatric wheelchairs are readily available with a variety of devices designed to increase comfort and functionality. These consist of accessories such as seat covers, armrests, and footrests. They also can be found in a vast array of colors to suit the client's character and design. They are likewise developed to be ADA compliant for ease of use and accessibility. With weight capacities up to 1000 lbs and chair widths that are larger than standard wheelchairs, a bariatric wheelchair is a terrific choice for larger users. Find out if Medicare covers this type of equipment.
For more information on bariatric power wheelchairs, call a medical materials expert at ProHeal. We provide a premium selection of healthcare equipment preferred by nurses, medical professionals, pharmacists, and caregivers.