Signs you may need a Bariatric Mattress

What is a Bariatric Mattress?

These are specially reinforced mattresses that are designed for heavier people. They have greater levels of support for increased body weight and can mitigate pressure sores. They can come in many forms, including foam, alternating air or innovative Noodles Technology. Sometimes even a mixture of all of these. These works to release pressure and shift body weight to ensure there is no sustained pressure on any particular section of the body for prolonged periods of time.

Due to heaviness, a conventional foam or air mattress might sink lower and becomes unable to offer the same levels of pressure support. A heavy duty mattress is designed for all people and are much harder wearing than other healthcare mattresses.

The deeper you sink into a mattress, the warmer it becomes as air is trapped, which could have consequences for developing pressure sores. Having a bariatric mattress allows for greater ventilation between the skin and the mattress surface. This creates a cooling quality that helps airflow. The best mattresses designed by Renray have latex-free fabric covers that are comfortable, durable and are easy to clean.

Vapour permeable mattress covers are able to withstand potential damage. Also, due to these cover qualities heavier set people are protected from skin shear and friction.

Bariatric mattresses utilise different layers of foam and are sectioned, this means heavier people are distributed evenly over the mattress surface and the mattress is protected.

Many mattresses on the market are unable to offer adequate heel support for heavier people. Bariatric mattresses however offer super soft heel sections so that residents don’t develop pain in that area whilst sleeping.

What classifies a bariatric person?

To be categoriesed as bariatric, the World Health Organisation defines bariatric as having a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 40 or weighing at least 45kg over your preferred body weight.

What is the medical definition for being overweight?

There are five categories of weight classification which are defined by BMI:

Normal – BMI 18.5 – 24.9

Overweight – BMI 25 – 29.9

Obese – BMI 30 – 34.9

Severely Obese – BMI 35 – 39.9

Morbidly Obese – BMI 40+

What makes someone bariatric?

Resident who have a BMI of 30 or greater may be classified as bariatric and therefore may be more suited to a bariatric bed.

Which users need a bariatric bed?

If someone weighs greater than 32 stone they will require a bariatric bed and mattress. The Renray Prestige Bariatric Bed has a maximum load weight of 50 stone and therefore would be appropriate for a user of this weight.

If you are concerned that people you care for may need a special bariatric mattress please contact our expert product team today.