Active User Wheelchair Seating Options

Following on from my posts about active user wheelchair backrest options and Active User Wheelchair Backrest Settings, I thought the next logical step would be to talk about active user wheelchair seating options. Given that these two areas go hand in hand when considering what you need from your active user wheelchair, it makes sense that they should follow on from one another.

You might be surprised to know that the seating specifications of an active user are a lot more complex than simply choosing a suitable cushion, though this is certainly an important element.

Active User Wheelchair Seating Options: Measurements

Active user wheelchairs are custom make for the individual. This includes the length and width of the seat. As with most other active user wheelchair elements, the majority of manufacturers offer a variety of measurements, within a set range.  They usually increase in increments, rather than being an exact measurement. The amount each increment goes up by varies among manufacturers. So if you need a very specific seat measurement, you may need to check through the order forms for a variety of wheelchairs to find the best fit for you.

For example, the the Kuschall K-Series, seat width measurements start at 320mm and go up to 500mm in 20mm increments. The seat depth starts at 350mm and goes up in 25mm increments to 525mm.

It’s worth noting that certain backrest and upholstery options are not available in the extremities of the available seat widths. As a result, those who need a particularly small seat or larger seat, might want to consider a different brand of wheelchair or take a look at what’s possible for an adolescent or bariatric wheelchair, if the backrest and/or upholstery requirements are not available.

Active User Wheelchair Seating Options: Upholstery

Think the only thing you need to think about when it comes to what’s under your bottom is your cushion? Think again! There are also different types of upholstery, helping you to get the right seating support for your needs.

With the Kuschall K-Series, there are three upholstery options available; standard black nylon, black mesh and tension adjustable. Standard is… well… standard. Light mesh can be a good option if you need something breathable. If a little more suspension is required, or you need to be able to tweak or adjust the support you get from your seating, tension adjustable upholstery can be helpful.

Active User Wheelchair Seating Options: Side Guards

The function of side guards is to protect clothing from getting caught in your push wheels. I think it’s fair to say that the majority of people will opt for clothes guards for their active user wheelchair. These are lightweight, subtle in appearance and can be folded when you need to transport your wheelchair.

However, it’s worth knowing that it’s also possible to get mudguards fitted to an active user wheelchair. Mudguards are a great option for someone who spends a lot of time outdoors, particularly in areas where it’s often wet and prone to mud.

Additionally, mud guards might be helpful if you have a baby who you carry in a sling. Particularly if said child is prone to stretching their toes out and scraping them along your wheels as you’re moving. Not that I know of a child who would do such a thing… *face palm*

Active User Wheelchair Seating Options: Cushion

And now we come to the main thing that people usually think of when you mention active user wheelchair seating – the cushion. There are so many wheelchair cushions available, made from different materials and offering different levels of support. Foam options come in contoured and non-contoured options, some with additional gel support and some without. Then there are cushions made from materials that mould to your specific shape.

As there are so many wheelchair cushions available, it’s worth considering what you need from your cushion, in order to narrow down your options. Think about your risk of developing pressure sores and whether/how much you need your cushion to help support your pelvis. The length of time you’ll be using your wheelchair is also an important factor in choosing the right cushion for you – comfort is key!

I know I keep going on about this in my active user wheelchair series, but please make sure that when your wheelchair is ordered, that the height of the cushion is taken into consideration on the order form. Don’t rely on the person measuring getting it right, or you risk end up like me, with just your tiptoes on your footplate and your ankles wobbling around all over the place.

What do you look for in your wheelchair’s seating?

Find me on:

Bloglovin’ | Twitter | Instagram | Pinterest | Facebook | YouTube

You can also check out the Accessibility In Parenting Service Facebook page!