As we get older, our bodies become more delicate and require special care. As people sit and lie for longer periods, elderly people are at higher risk of a pressure injury. Many people each year present to hospital with pressure injuries. To help heal the wounds as quickly and effectively as possible, pressure relieving equipment such as high quality cushions can assist as part of a pressure care plan.
In this blog, we’ll talk about how to choose a pressure care cushion for an elderly person, focusing on lightweight, high-quality foam options. It is recommended that you discuss your equipment needs with an occupational therapist to ensure that you have a comprehensive pressure relief plan to assist with wound healing and pressure injury prevention.
When people are encouraged to sit on a cushion to reduce their risk of pressure injuries, they often suggest that they can sit on their lounge chair cushions. However lounge cushions won't have the properties needed to help with preventing or healing a pressure injury.
A pressure care cushion is a special kind of cushion designed to reduce and redistribute pressure to reduce the risk of developing pressure injuries. These cushions work by spreading out a person’s weight evenly, which helps relieve pressure points that can cause skin damage. They are especially helpful for elderly individuals who may not be as mobile as they used to be.
Although it can be tempting to try a low cost foam cushion (i.e. under $100), it may not be cost effective as it is important to purchase a pressure relieving cushion with the design features to reduce the risk of a pressure injury.
When it comes to pressure care cushions, high-quality foam is one key material that many cushions are made from. Here are a few reasons why:
1. Weight Distribution: Good foam helps spread a person’s weight evenly, reducing pressure on sensitive areas like the hips and sit bones. This is key in preventing pressure injuries.
2. Long-lasting: High-quality foam is built to last. It doesn’t lose its shape easily, so it continues to provide support over time, making it a smart investment.
3. Comfort: Comfort is essential. Soft, high-density foam often feels nicer to sit on and can make a big difference in how someone feels throughout the day.
4. Breathability: Many high-quality foams have features that allow air to flow through. This can help keep the skin cool and dry, which is important for skin health.
5. Support: Good foam provides strong support to keep the person stable while seated, which helps prevent slipping or sliding, keeping them safe.
When shopping for a pressure care cushion, keep these important features in mind:
1. Type of Foam: There are a variety of foams and foam-combination options. Here are a few types of foams that you will find in a cushion
- Memory Foam: This foam molds to a person’s body shape, offering excellent comfort and pressure relief. It’s great for absorbing shock.
- High-Density Foam: This is firmer than memory foam but still comfortable and supportive. It’s durable enough for everyday use.
- Gel-Infused Foam: This is a combination of foam and gel, which helps with comfort and keeps the cushion cool.
2. Thickness and Density: The thickness of the cushion usually ranges from 5-10cms. Make sure it’s thick enough to support the person’s weight without feeling uncomfortable. Check how much weight it can hold based on the manufacturer’s guidelines.
3. Covers: The cushion cover should be made from breathable fabric that can wick away sweat. A great bonus is if the cover can be removed and washed easily
4. Shape and Design: Some cushions are made in specific shapes to provide better support. Contoured cushions can help improve posture, while others might be flat.
5. Weight: The cushion shouldn’t be too heavy, making it easy to move around but still sturdy enough to support the user. If it's light enough then it can be used on different seats, and even used in the car if the cushion isn't too high.
If possible, try out the cushion before buying it. It should be comfortable and supportive without sinking too much into the foam. It should also be the right size for the person's body.
Caring for the Cushion
Once you have chosen a high-quality foam cushion, it’s important to take care of it so it lasts a long time. Regularly check for any signs of wear and tear. Clean the cushion according to the instructions provided by the manufacturer, and wash the cover often to keep it fresh and free from germs.
Choosing the right pressure care cushion for an elderly loved one can make a big difference in their comfort and health. By looking for high-quality foam options and considering individual preferences, you can find a cushion that helps prevent pressure injuries and improves overall well-being.
Occupational Therapists can assist you with trialling a variety of pressure care cushions to help you decide if a high quality foam cushion is the best option to help as part of your pressure relieving plan.
By Karen Maurer
