Abstract
“Ease of comfort” and “functionality” are important factors that have been cited to improve wheelchair seating. The ability to maintain balance and posture while seated in a wheelchair improves stability, comfort, and functionality and is a prerequisite for daily activities. In this study, the authors used a sitting position measuring device to scientifically verify differences in sitting posture, comfort, and functionality depending on the presence or absence of cushions and the type of cushion in elderly individuals who used wheelchairs. Results suggested that a cushion fabricated by a therapist was more useful than a commercially available air cushion. While a commercially available air cushion was the most suitable, the therapist’s self-made cushion could be expected to demonstrate the same or better applicability than an air cushion.
Highlights
Wheelchair seating is a generic term that refers to devices such as wheelchairs [1] [2] [3] [4] and cushion devices [5]-[10] and their proper use and management
Collins [12] reported that the ultimate goal of cushion use, which is important for wheelchair seating, is stability, comfort, and functionality
The purpose of the present study was to scientifically verify differences in comfort and functionality depending on the presence or absence of cushions, and the type of cushions for elderly individuals who use a wheelchair
Summary
Wheelchair seating is a generic term that refers to devices such as wheelchairs [1] [2] [3] [4] and cushion devices [5]-[10] and their proper use and management. Collins [12] reported that the ultimate goal of cushion use, which is important for wheelchair seating, is stability, comfort, and functionality. Measuring the stability of an individual in a wheelchair depends on the researcher and the evaluation method. Previous studies have used sit pressure measuring devices to assess wheelchair differences [15], pelvic limb position differences [16], and foot support height/seat surface height differences [17]. The purpose of the present study was to scientifically verify differences in comfort and functionality depending on the presence or absence of cushions, and the type of cushions for elderly individuals who use a wheelchair. The results are anticipated to facilitate approaches to interventions for wheelchair seating by therapists
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