For individuals with physical disabilities receiving care at home, preventing pressure injuries (also known as pressure ulcers or bedsores) is not just important, it’s critical to maintaining health, comfort, and independence.
As Susan Lipton Garber noted in the American Journal of Occupational Therapy, “Pressure sores are a major complication in the medical course of these individuals.” For home healthcare patients who use wheelchairs or spend extended time in one position, the risk of pressure injuries and skin breakdown is significantly higher. The right wheelchair cushions can play a major role in relieving pressure and reducing the risk of ulcers, helping patients stay safe and comfortable at home.
Reduce the Risk of Pressure Injuries
Today, pressure injury prevention strategies and positioning tools are more advanced than ever. As Susan Johnson Taylor highlights in Evaluating the Client with Physical Disabilities for Wheelchair Seating, proper positioning is a key requirement for safely and effectively using any mobility or technical aid. Since many daily activities are performed in a seated position, especially in a home environment, ensuring correct posture and support is more important than ever.
Action® brand Wheelchair Cushions
That’s why AKTON® Polymer, invented by Dr. W.R. McElroy, has been so transformative. Used in Action® brand wheelchair pads and cushions, this unique material doesn’t leak or “bottom out” like gel, making it a durable and body-friendly choice for pressure injury prevention strategies at home.
Advanced Seating and Positioning Cushions
Comfort and Skin Protection Cushions
Advantages of AKTON Polymer
- Excellent shear-reducing qualities
- Soft, flexible film
- Evenly distributes heat and pressure
- Clinically proven to help prevent pressure injuries
- Reusable & Cost Effective
- Does not support bacterial growth
- Hypoallergenic
- Does not leak or flow
- Easy to clean and maintain
- Free of DEHP
The shear-reducing qualities of Action® products are enhanced by the combination of the soft, flexible outer film and the tissue equivalent polymer.
The World Health Organization emphasizes that properly fitted wheelchairs with postural support and cushioning can help prevent life-threatening complications for people with spinal cord injuries. In fact, they report that appropriate wheelchair seating can reduce dependence on caregivers by maximizing function and mobility.
TWISTER® Wheelchair Back
One example is the Action® Twister® Wheelchair Back Cushion from Action Products, designed to adjust to each user’s back for personalized support. This is especially important in-home healthcare settings, where patients may rely heavily on their wheelchairs for both mobility and positioning. As the WHO points out, armrests should only be used temporarily for posture; proper back support keeps the user’s hands free for moving, reaching, and participating in daily life.
The Importance of Preventing Pressure Injuries at Home
Pressure injury prevention in the home isn’t optional, it’s essential. From wheelchair cushions to positioning aids, the right tools can protect skin integrity, reduce caregiver burden, and improve quality of life.
Whether you’re a home healthcare provider, a family caregiver, or a patient yourself, investing in effective solutions to prevent pressure injuries is an effective way to support long-term health and independence at home.
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https://www.researchgate.net/scientific-contributions/Susan-Lipton-Garber-2033670160
https://www.who.int/news/item/05-06-2023-who-releases-new-wheelchair-provision-guidelines
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/3425664/
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