This week’s technology report is on wheelchair seating products. For those who spend large periods of time in a wheelchair, finding the right seating enhancements that provide both comfort and support is of high importance.

There are a wide selection of seat cushions that take into account everything from moisture resistance to pressure relief. Some products include materials that are lightweight and contoured to fit your body, while others emphasize your degree of activity and how likely your lifestyle is to cause skin breakdown.

Other options to look for are whether or not the manufacturer provides a solid cushion such as those made with gels or foam or a liquid one that prevents bottoming out - a situation that can lead to skin sores. Most companies will take into account your size and shape, fitting you with the best seat for your situation.

Backrests are another important item to consider when shopping for optimal comfort and health. There are an assortment of wheelchair backs that are suited to a variety of lifestyles. For the active person, there are specifications such as flexible positioning systems, removable hardware and lightweight structure. For those with a more sedentary or indoor lifestyle, you can find backs that will align your posture, provide maximal support and easy release.

Backs come in as many different materials as seats do and can be found in either hard shelled form or with an upholstered structure. Some are created for a greater weight bearing ability and others specifically for those who want to travel quick and light.

Consider what sort of life you lead and under what conditions before buying a wheelchair and seating products. These run in a wide price range and it will pay off later to research first!

While we don’t endorse any specific manufacturer, Sunrise Medical may be a good place to start looking as they have over 30 years of experience providing assistive products to those with disabilities.

Don’t let your disability keep you inside this summer! This week’s tech report is on products that will make the beach comfortably accessible.

Beach wheelchairs are a great way to get out and about and enjoy the sunshine and they make accessing any sandy waterfront affordable and fun. The De-Bug by Achievable Concepts is a four wheeled, fixed frame all-terrain wheelchair. It is made with stainless steel tubing, has 21 by 11 inch front tires and 13 by 6 inch rear tires along with padded armrests and sling seating. The rear suspension articulates 20 degrees which allows all four wheels to maintain ground contact, creating stability, while the large front tires are said to make it easier to push.

Another all-terrain chair is the Landeez All-Terrain Wheelchair. This one can not only traverse the sand, but can also maneuver through water, snow or mud. Different in form from the De-Bug, the Landeez’s rear tires are large with a soft PVC plastic pneumatic design that absorbs road shocks. They are also made with stainless steel frames and have a 325 pound weight capacity.

These are just two examples of wheelchairs that provide access to nature’s attractions…we don’t advocate for any in particular as they all have a variety of different features and fits that will appeal to different people. Check them out and find one that fits you!

Here are a couple of sites to get you started on your wheelchair search:

Achievable Concepts

Landeez