Bariatric products are designed to carter for overweight patients that suffer from arthritis, have suffered a stroke or have limited mobility due to their weight. These products offer these people an opportunity to maintain their independence and leave and a health lifestyle.
Similar to traditional mobility aids, bariatric products feature increased heavy duty supports, weight capacities, and wider widths to fit an overweight persons needs. Today, there are various types of bariatric products available on the market that serve a range of purposes and assist overweight people perform everyday tasks.
Wheelchairs
Wheelchairs designed for bariatric users feature built-in strengthening and bracing on the frame to reduce the chances of it buckling or twisting in use. Front and back seat supports come with telescopic guides to ensure the seated area is guided to its support and a couple of moving parts make them user-friendly. Available in self-propelling and transit models, this equipment only provides independence if the user is able to propel themselves.
Mobility Scooters
Those unable to propel themselves should consider a mobility scooter. Mobility scooters usually come with powerful motors and good ground clearance, meaning they can take a person pretty much anywhere they want, including rough terrain and steep hills. When choosing a mobility scooter for a bariatric user that two major factors to consider: the power of the battery and the strength of the frame -seat, suspension, springing, etc. Features such as adjustable armrests, seat position, and driving tiller, all contribute to a more comfortable ride.
Walking Frames and Rollators
Extra wide walking frames with different heights are also available to accommodate bariatric users of different sizes. A simple non-wheeled frame made from aluminum is strong enough to support a user of up 300 kg, while still being light and easy to manoeuvre. Accessories like glide brakes allow the frame to slide easily across the floor yet hold it securely in place when weight is applied to the frame.For maximum stability, there are heavy-duty rollators with four legs, which can be either fixed or come with wheels. Height adjustments allow the equipment to suit the user and some models can be fold down for easier storage.
Before you buy a bariatric mobility aid it is important that you understand that due to the size of the equipment, more space will be required. This means that hallways, doorways and turning spaces will need to be larger than standard. The load capacity of the floor should also be considered as it will need to support the combined weight the bariatric person, equipment and the carers.