Choosing the Right Bariatric Wheelchair
Bariatric wheelchairs are designed to support bigger weight capacities and use wider seating choices than basic wheelchairs. They also include heavy-duty frames built with resilient materials to guarantee long-term dependability and safety.
Comprehending how to choose the best bariatric wheelchair for your needs is a crucial initial step towards enhancing mobility and self-reliance. To assist you in this process, let's explore the essential factors to consider when picking a chair.
Frame
The frame of a bariatric wheelchair is specifically engineered to be more long lasting and strong to support the weight of much heavier users. They likewise have broader seats and frames to offer greater comfort for users of bigger statures. This makes bariatric wheelchairs perfect for patients with conditions that make walking tough due to pain, stiffness, or decreased stamina.
There are various kinds of wheelchair frames, each designed to meet particular needs for a vast array of clients. Pediatric manual chairs have a narrower frame to accommodate growth and might be fixed or folding depending on the client's requirements. Adult bariatric frames are broader to support the weight of much heavier users and feature a higher seat-to-floor height for much easier stand pivot transfers. Some frames have a detachable padded raising leg rest that is adjustable to offer a comfy position for the user.
A rigid frame is lighter and more stable than a folding chair. It has fewer potential damage points and can be more energy-efficient as it directs all of the customer's energy toward moving the chair forward. It is often preferred by bariatric clients since it offers the stability and convenience they need to get through doors and other tight areas.
A bariatric wheelchair's frame must be carefully kept to prevent damage and wear. This includes regularly inspecting for loose parts and keeping the upholstery tidy. It's also essential to follow the producer's maintenance guidelines 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 examined to guarantee that the brakes are operating appropriately and that they're not used or damaged.
Seat
Choosing the right bariatric wheelchair allows patients to stay mobile without the threats related to bed rest. This decreases complications, such as muscle atrophy, digestive concerns and anxiety. It likewise prevents pressure injuries from establishing that can be both painful and pricey to deal with.
Unlike standard wheelchairs, which have lighter frames and smaller sized wheel sizes, bariatric chairs are constructed with heavy-duty materials that can support larger users with greater convenience. These stronger chairs generally have broader seat widths and a higher weight capacity than standard models. Their size can make them more challenging to transport, however BriteLift offers custom vehicles that are particularly created for wheelchairs and their travelers.
When selecting a bariatric chair, it's crucial to consider the weight capacity and dimensions in relation to the user's day-to-day needs. A seating evaluation with an occupational therapist or ATP will help make sure that the chair satisfies both the person's sizing requirements and mobility goals. The results of this evaluation can also be used to demonstrate medical necessity for insurance functions.
It's also crucial to keep in mind that the weight capacity listed for a chair is typically a static load, while the active load is the amount of weight the chair can hold when someone sits in it. To test the actual load limit of a chair, it is executed a drop test that replicates 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 people with different needs. For example, some offer cushioned armrests that are an excellent choice for those with arm weak point or minimal series of movement. bariatric travel wheelchair come with a range of seating alternatives that can supply much better assistance for individuals who are heavier or need additional stability.
Bariatric wheelchairs likewise feature reinforced elements that assist them hold up against greater weight capabilities without compromising stability and toughness. For instance, some models include a reinforced frame at all critical load-bearing points, while others have extra-large wheels to assist in greater maneuverability. They might likewise have more functions that deal with the requirements of specific individuals, such as a commode seat that permits easy transfer in and out of the chair.
For example, 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 detachable cushioned armrests. Users can select in between swing away or raising foot rests that deal customizable height settings. Its 8" sturdy front swivel wheels and strengthened front fork make it simpler to steer in numerous indoor and outdoor environments. Each design features a hammer tone paint finish to offer an appealing and lasting appearance. This is the ideal wheelchair for bariatric users with a weight capacity up to 1,000 pounds.
Footrests
Unlike standard wheelchairs, bariatric chairs come geared up with heavier frames built from enhanced materials like steel and larger-sized wheels. Their larger size helps to distribute weight more equally for higher stability and maneuverability. These features are highlighted in Medline's folding additional wide bariatric wheelchair, with two 8" durable front swivel castors and enhanced front forks that offer unparalleled strength and stability in movement. This chair also consists of cushioned desk-length armrests and tool-free adjustable footrests. It can support users as much as 500 lbs.
Accessories
Bariatric wheelchairs are readily available with a range of devices developed to increase comfort and functionality. These include accessories such as seat covers, armrests, and footrests. They likewise are available in a wide range of colors to suit the client's personality and design. They are likewise designed to be ADA certified for ease of use and accessibility. With weight capabilities up to 1000 pounds and chair widths that are broader than basic wheelchairs, a bariatric wheelchair is a great choice for bigger users. Discover if Medicare covers this kind of equipment.
For more details on bariatric power wheelchairs, get in touch with a medical products specialist at ProHeal. We provide a premium range of health care equipment chosen by nurses, physicians, pharmacists, and caretakers.