Bariatric Mobility Aids

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Walking aids
Wheelchairs
Mobility scooters
Managing stairs

Walking Frames & Rollators

Extra wide walking frames are available in different heights, to accommodate bariatric users from short to tall. A simple non-wheeled frame made from aluminium is strong enough for a user weight of 47 stone (300 kg), while still being light and easy to manoeuvre.

Accessories such as glide brakes enable the frame to slide easily across the floor, yet hold it securely in place when weight is applied to the frame.

Heavy-duty rollators have four legs for maximum stability, and are available with either two wheels and two fixed legs, or four sets of wheels. Height adjustments allow the walker to suit the user, and it is possible to get models that fold down for easier storage and transportation. A seat for occasional rests when walking about is a feature of the walker shown here, which is suitable for users weighing up to about 40 stone (255 kg).

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Wheelchairs for Bariatric Users

Wheelchairs that have been constructed for use by the heaviest individuals have built-in strengthening and bracing of the frame, to reduce the possibility of it twisting or buckling in use.

Available in transit (carer assist) models and self-propelling, the latter providing greater independence, if the user is able to propel themselves. A folding chair, such as the one shown here, is easier to transport and store when not in use. It also has armrests which can be removed to make side transfers easier.

We frequently receive enquiries about add-on power packs, which provide motor power when required for a manual wheelchair. You can imagine that such assistance is particularly welcome for a carer pushing a very heavy user in their chair, as much to prevent the chair running away when going downhill as for tackling uphill slopes. It is possible to buy or rent a power pack suitable for controlling a wheelchair with a user weighing up to 42 stone (266 kg).

If power assistance is required at all times, then a heavy duty powerchair is the solution. The model shown here has twin mid-wheel drive motors with 16 inch pneumatic drive wheels, providing stability. It also has four pneumatic castors, front and back, and anti-tip wheels at the rear for added security. Suitable for users weighing up to 46 stone (295 kg), it has a reinforced frame, and is powered by two 70 amp hour batteries, to give a range of 15 miles (24 km) per charge.

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Heavy-duty Mobility Scooters

There are two major factors to consider in choosing a mobility scooter for a bariatric user: the strength of the frame - suspension, springing, seat, etc - and the power of the battery.

Features such as adjustable seat position, width adjustable armrests, adjustable driving tiller, all contribute to a more comfortable ride.

The mobility scooter shown here is suitable for users weighing up to 45 stone (286 kg) and has also been constructed for off-road use, meaning that its powerful motor and good ground clearance will take you pretty well anywhere you fancy going, including rough terrain and steep hills.

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Managing Stairs

A heavy duty stairlift can accommodate users weighing up to 30 stone, and has a robust yet simple and discreet rail which takes up little room on a staircase. A generously padded seat with adjustable arms and extra large footplate enable large users to travel with confidence. Amongst the additional features you can select, a powered swivel which will turn the seat if necessary at the top or bottom of the staircase.

One alternative solution to stairs for individuals who use a wheelchair is a powered stairclimber, which is compatible with most manual chairs, and saves the user from transferring out of their chair. There is a heavy duty version, the C-max U2 powered stairclimber, which has a maximum user weight of 25 stone (160 kg), and enables one person to assist the user going up or down stairs, without the need for manual handling or additional help. It can be used safely on any type of floor covering.

And another possibility, which facilitates total independence for a wheelchair user, or an ambulant individual who is too obese to manage stairs, is one of the new generation of heavy duty through-floor vertical lifts. The lift shown here has a weight limit of 39 stone (250 kg), and can be installed in just a few days, with minimal disruption. Click here to read about how Terry Lifts assisted a bariatric client to regain access to his home.

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