A wheelchair seat cushion provides support for people who spend long periods of time in a wheelchair. It can protect against the pain, sores, and posture problems associated with prolonged sitting, while making these essential mobility products much easier and more comfortable to use.
Benefits of Using Wheelchair Seat Cushions
A good fitting, well-made wheelchair seat cushion provides all the following benefits:
- Comfort: If you’re spending a lot of time using a wheelchair, you’ll want one that is comfortable and inviting. You’ll be more inclined to use it, which could encourage mobility.
- Posture Correction: If the cushion isn’t comfortable and supportive, a wheelchair user will make slight and almost imperceptible posture corrections. In the short-term, it makes them more comfortable, but in the long-term, it could lead to posture problems and chronic pain.
- Skin Protection: A breathable cushion reduces the risk of dry skin, rubbing, and other issues, allowing all moisture to fade away.
- Reduced Pressure Sores: Pressure sores result from prolonged sitting. They are common with wheelchair users and people who spend a lot of time in bed. They cause bruises and open wounds and need to be washed and treated regularly. A proper wheelchair seat cushion may prevent these sores.
What to Consider When Buying a Wheelchair Seat Cushion
The above benefits are only relevant if you buy the right cushion. With that said, let’s look at the features to look out for when making your choice.
Shape
Cushions are available in many different shapes, from flat and round to U-shaped and more. The one that works best for you will depend on your needs, size, and the wheelchair for which it is intended. For instance, some are designed to assist with lower back pain in particular, while others help users to maintain an upright posture by encouraging them to sit in a certain way.
Size
Will the cushion actually fit your wheelchair? Look at the dimensions and compare these to your wheelchair. It’s crucial to get a cushion that fits snugly. If it’s too big or small, it may slip and cause injury.
Non-Slip
To prevent those slips, look for a non-slip base. The risk of the cushion slipping off the chair is pretty slim, but even if it slides a few inches, it could cause discomfort and render itself useless.
Water-Resistant and Washable
Is the cushion washable, can it be wiped clean, and does it come with a water-resistant cover? This is important for preventing stains from spills and incontinence.
The Best Wheelchair Seat Cushions
We have taken into account all of the above features and benefits to find the very best wheelchair seat cushions for elderly users. You can purchase these from major retailers like Amazon. Just remember to check those specifications, read the user reviews, and make sure you’re getting good value for money.
Viva – Gel Seat Cushion for Wheelchairs
Vive makes regular appearances on our list of the best mobility products, and that’s not an accident. This manufacturer has one of the widest product selections and some pretty high standards, as exemplified by this wheelchair cushion.
It combines 4 layers, including a removable cover, a waterproof layer, a liquid gel core, and premium foam. At $40, it’s not cheap, but you get a lot of value for your money. It’s waterproof, washable, comfortable, and designed to fit most wheelchairs and office chairs.
To cap it off, it’s soft and luxurious to the touch, while the foam ensures it doesn’t easily flatten and will stay firm and strong for years to come.
Drive Medical “E” Wheelchair Cushion
A supportive frame sits inside a washable and waterproof cover. It can be used by people weighing up to 275 lbs., and there is a larger option that can withstand up to 500 lbs. The actual cushion is portable, spanning 20 inches for the smaller one and 22 inches for the larger, and it only weighs three-quarters of a pound.
Everlasting Comfort Pure Memory Foam Cushion
One of the most popular options in the Amazon store, this cushion has over 2,000 reviews, most of which are positive. The company has produced many similar products and we have recommended some of them in the past.
Its striking blue-on-black design looks great, and it features gel-infused memory foam for maximum comfort and support.
NOVA Gel and Memory Foam Wheelchair Cushion
NOVA is another big brand that never fails to produce a quality product. It’s the most expensive option on this list, but only just, and it is available in a multitude of sizes and styles.
It has a water-resistant and removable cover, a gel-infused interior, and a non-slip surface to ensure it stays put.