Choosing Bariatric Aids and Equipment: What Really Needs to Be Considered

Bariatric needs are broader than a simple weight number. Height, build, weight distribution, mobility level, breathlessness, joint pain and skin care concerns can all change what will work well.

That is why professional assessment is often worth considering before equipment is selected, especially when there are transfer risks or multiple carers involved.

Even the right equipment can be hard to use in the wrong environment. Door widths, turning space, bathroom size, storage, steps and stairs can all affect what is practical.

• Rooms need enough space for equipment and carers to move safely.
• Standard bathrooms and toilets may be too small for larger equipment.
• Multi-level homes can create significant access issues.
• For very heavy setups, structural or floor-loading concerns may also need attention.

The bedroom setup may include a strengthened bed, a suitable mattress, transfer aids and pressure care support. Specially strengthened beds can be essential at higher weight ranges, and adjustable height and profiling functions can be particularly important for transfer and positioning.

Pressure care surfaces, transfer boards, sliding sheets, bed poles and leg lifters may also have a role depending on the person’s needs.

Transfers are often the hardest part of day-to-day care. Mobile hoists can be used, but they need space to manoeuvre and trained carers to operate them safely. For longer-term care, overhead hoist systems can sometimes be preferable where the environment allows.

Sling choice also matters, particularly when weight distribution, skin condition or positioning needs are more complex.

Bathroom support may include bedside commodes, mobile commode chairs, shower chairs, shower stools, heavy-duty transfer benches and other toilet or bathing aids. In smaller bathrooms, practical access can be the biggest challenge.

In some cases, a combination shower commode can reduce the number of different items needed and simplify transfers.

Bariatric seating needs to suit the person’s size, shape, sitting time and the activities they need to do throughout the day. Some chairs may need to be custom built. Where standing from sitting is difficult, a bariatric lift recline chair or lifting device may help.

Bariatric mobility aids include rollators, wheelchairs and walking aids built with stronger materials and higher capacities than standard equipment.

Because bariatric equipment can be costly and difficult to resell, hire may be a sensible pathway in some situations, especially when needs are still changing or the equipment is only needed for a limited period.

For more information, visit bariatric equipment or contact our team.