The last time I tried to count how many wheelchair cushions were available, I stopped at one hundred! Like finding the perfect pair of jeans, choosing the right cushion can be tricky. So where do you start?
Cushions are as individual as your needs and goals. With so many options, it is important to find one that will suit you.
Seating Goals and Priorities Matter
To narrow down your options, work with your prescribing therapist to prioritise these three key areas:
Cushions are designed with different goals in mind, so identifying your top priorities helps you shortlist effectively.
Key tip: Share your cushion goals with your therapist and supplier at the start of your appointment.
Maintenance – Know What’s Required
Every cushion needs some level of upkeep. It’s important to understand what you (or your support team) are comfortable managing daily, weekly, or monthly. Even the best cushion won’t perform well if it’s not maintained properly.
Ask your supplier and/or therapist to show you what is involved. Maintenance may include:
Key tip: Choose a cushion you can maintain as recommended. If it’s too complex to manage, it’s not the right fit.
Ask “Why” and “How”
With so many cushions available, it’s important to ask:
Therapists and suppliers should explain the cushion’s design and purpose. Some may even provide independent test results including ISO Standards (more on that in a future blog).
Key tip: Always trial the cushion in your wheelchair. Lab results are helpful, but your experience matters most.
Mobility – Does the Cushion Support It?
Your cushion is a key part of your seating system. It should support, not hinder, your mobility. That’s why cushion selection should be considered alongside your wheelchair setup.
Changes in cushion height can affect:
Increased height:
Decreased height:
Key tip: If you're changing cushions, talk to your therapist and supplier about how you may be able to adjust your chair to accommodate differences in height or materials. Some wheelchairs are limited in their adjustability, so it is important to check first.
Comfort Really Matters
Therapists, suppliers, and manufacturers can offer guidance, but your comfort is key. If you're not comfortable, you're less likely to use your chair consistently, which can affect your daily life.
Even if a cushion isn’t your therapist’s top pick, if it meets your goals and you understand the risks and benefits, your comfort is an important priority.
Key tip: Understand how your cushion affects pressure relief and long-term positioning, and make sure it feels right for you.
The Importance of Skin Protection
Some people are at higher risk of pressure injuries, and cushions play a major role in prevention. While comfort is crucial, skin protection is very important; it’s easier to prevent pressure injuries than to recover from them.
If you're unsure of your risk level, ask your therapist to complete a pressure injury assessment.
Key tip: Learn how to do effective weight shifts that suit your body and needs, as recommended by your therapist.
Final Thoughts
Choosing a cushion isn’t always straightforward. But by focusing on your priorities (skin protection, stability, and positioning), understanding the cushion’s design, and ensuring it’s comfortable and functional, you’ll be well on your way to finding the right fit.
Stay connected
Got a story, tip, or question of your own? We’d love to hear from you!
Want more user-first tips, lived experience stories, and helpful resources sent straight to your inbox?
Sign up here: https://bit.ly/4kyNx2T
Useful information, created with and for wheelchair users.
Disclaimer
The content in this blog is intended to be informative and empowering, sharing general insights and experiences around life with assistive technology. It reflects the views of the author and is not a substitute for personalised medical, clinical, or professional advice.
Everyone’s needs, goals, and health circumstances are unique. If you’re considering any changes to your equipment, routines, or support, we always recommend speaking with your Occupational Therapist, healthcare team, or another qualified professional.