Wheelchair Seat - An Important Component

Speaking from personal experience, the wheelchair seat is probably the most important wheelchair part. Most handicapped people spend 12-16 hours a day on their backsides. Therefore, if the seat fits improperly, or does not provide the correct support, discomfort can make for very long days. Unfortunately, for many handicapped people devoid of proper feeling in the lower extremities, an uncomfortable fit can result in dangerous, and sometimes life-threatening sores. For instance, the American actor Christopher Reeves may have died due to infections from pressure sores. So, finding the proper wheelchair seat is vital.

Rehabilitative therapists may suggest a gel seat, for comfort and prevention of pressure sores. The main structure of the seat is some kind of aerated foam molded in the shape of a bottom. Then, a gel cushion is attached. As the patient moves around in the chair, the gel cushion shifts to accommodate redistribution of weight.

Seats made of memory foam are a comfortable choice. Whether the person’s body structure changes or stays the same, the foam molds to the individual. However, one problem with a foam cushion is breakdown. Unlike the furniture in the average home, disabled people sit all the time. Due to constant use, wheelchair seat cushions with visible signs of wear, should be replaced.

Some wheelchair seats are designed for a specific purpose. For example, the toilet wheelchair seat is made to roll over the top of a regular commode. Once in position, the disabled person shift out of his/her undergarments, then simply eliminates waste. The special chair negates the need for a caregiver to be in the room, allowing the individual privacy and dignity. As a disabled person, the hardest part for the elderly, or handicapped due to illness or accident, is losing independence, privacy, and dignity. Already frustrated by the inability to do the simplest tasks, not being able to privately care for personal hygiene is totally depressing.

Finally, regardless of the type of wheelchair seat, fit is essential. If the seat is too long, circulation can be compromised, not to mention swollen legs and sore backs. Also, if the seat is too narrow, the individual is basically an uncomfortable sardine. In addition, if the seat is too wide, balance is more difficult, and grasping the wheels of a manual chair may be an unnecessary and uncomfortable stretch.

In summary, wheelchair seats are the most important wheelchair component, regardless of whether the chair is manual, electric, or serves a specific purpose. Proper support prevents sores, which can become infected and potentially life threatening; proper support help maintain balance and control of a manual chair; and, proper support simply make a difficult life a little more comfortable.

Next article: Why Do You Need A Wheelchair Scale