| A seat cushion or cooling wheel chair pad is an | | | | inflated to adjust to the wheelchair user's comfort |
| important accessory for those who spend | | | | and sensitive areas. While lightweight and |
| extended time in a mobility chair. Sitting for long | | | | waterproof, they are subject to leaks and |
| periods puts people at risk for developing | | | | punctures, and should be checked regularly. |
| pressure sores and bruises. In addition, vibration | | | | COOLING WHEEL CHAIR PADS |
| and heat can cause additional pain and discomfort. | | | | Cooling wheel chair pads are similar to cooling |
| Following is an overview of the seating pads and | | | | cushions people use on car seats and office chairs. |
| cushions available to wheel chair users. | | | | They are specifically designed to reduce heat |
| FOAM CUSHIONS | | | | build-up and moisture from underneath the legs |
| These standard seat cushions are lightweight and | | | | and buttocks that occur from extensive sitting. |
| inexpensive. They come in a variety of densities | | | | Cooling wheel chair pads offer pain relief and |
| and sizes to accommodate the wheel chair seat. | | | | provide comfort for a number of hours, based on |
| Yet, foam cushions typically last no longer than six | | | | pad design and construction. |
| to 12 months and should be checked regularly to | | | | HYBRID AND OTHER TYPES OF CUSHIONS |
| ensure they are providing comfort and pressure | | | | Some manufacturers make cushions by combining |
| relief. | | | | materials like foam and gel. Others have |
| GEL CUSHIONS | | | | developed new materials for their cushions and |
| Gel cushions are heavy, distribute weight evenly, | | | | pads such as composite foam to enhance air |
| and provide good seating protection. While they | | | | circulation and moisture prevention. |
| are extremely durable, it is important to sure that | | | | Before deciding on a cushion, ask your health care |
| gel cushions maintain their shape and the | | | | professional which type is best for you. Then try |
| wheelchair user isn't "bottoming out" on the pad. If | | | | different cushions and pads for yourself to see |
| so, it needs to be replaced. | | | | which you like the best and gives you the most |
| AIR CUSHIONS | | | | comfort. |
| These cushions have air chambers and can be | | | | |