Author: Meredith Chandler OTR/L
Date: 04/05/2024
Keywords: Remedic Gel Seat Cushion with Incontinence Pad, incontinence, arthritis, comfort, occupational therapist, wheelchair, sitting
Remedic Gel Seat Cushion with Incontinence Pad: An Occupational Therapist’s Review
Introduction
Selecting the right seat cushion means the world to seniors, especially if it means a great reduction in daily pain or discomfort. In some cases, the right seat cushion means the difference between optimal skin integrity and hospitalization. In this blog, we will be exploring the design and benefits of the Gel Seat Cushion with Incontinence Pad. Our approach encompasses an occupational therapist’s assessment and point-of-view regarding seniors living with arthritis who could benefit from using the Gel Cushion with Incontinence Pad.
What is arthritis?
There are several hundred forms of arthritis, but the two most common include osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. While osteoarthritis gradually breaks down the cartilage of the joints due to wear and tear, rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune condition where the body attacks the lining of the joints. Symptoms of arthritis typically include joint inflammation and stiffness that can affect any area of the body, thus making participation in daily living activities challenging.
What functional problems result from arthritis?
Since arthritic symptoms vary widely, many seniors with mild symptoms may not notice obvious changes or compensations to their daily routine; however, seniors who’ve lived with arthritis for many years may be experiencing debilitating and excruciating pain that greatly limits mobility and causes chronic fatigue. Examples include inability to sit for long periods of time, difficulty with reaching, discomfort with bending forward, trouble staying awake, etc. Such problems could increase the risk of falls and/or injury.
What is incontinence?
Incontinence is a condition where someone loses the voluntary capacity to control urinary and/or bowel output. This results in regular accidents which can be embarrassing, unhygienic, and potentially dangerous when left unattended. Seniors who experience regular incontinence episodes are at higher risk for compromised skin integrity and devasting wounds that can lead to infection, hospitalization, or death. Incontinence can be defined by medical issues that impact muscles and joints, but it also refers to accidental episodes that happen when someone can’t get to the bathroom on time due to mobility limitations.
Purpose of Gel Seat Cushions and Pads
In general, gel seat cushions and pads are designed to provide additional comfort to individuals who participate in prolonged sitting. This is common among seniors with age-related conditions, chronic pain, fatigue, poor balance, and paralysis. Medical-grade gel seat cushions are highly sought out in private residences, assistive living centers, hospitals, and nursing homes to prevent skin break down and staged wounds or ulcers. Most gel seat cushions are fitted for wheelchair use but can be transferred to recliners, geriatric chairs, and other seating systems. However, many gel seat cushions are difficult to clean and are not equipped with durable, washable material suitable for seniors with incontinence.
Who is the Remedic Gel Seat Cushion with Incontinence Pad Suitable For?
The Remedic Gel Seat Cushion with Incontinence Pad is a honeycomb-shaped gel insert encased in an Oeko-Tex 100 certified removable fabric cover. While the top layer is created with a soft, skin-friendly material, the bottom is studded with a non-slip texture to prevent sliding forward and off the seat. The fabric is double layered for high absorption, making it ideal for seniors with incontinence. Additionally, the cover is machine washable and gel insert is easy to sanitize. The Remedic Gel Seat Cushion with Incontinence Pad is suitable for seniors with:
- Chronic fatigue resulting in extended wheelchair or recliner use
- Arthritis of the spine and hips, making prolonged sitting uncomfortable
- Seniors with incontinence issues
- Seniors who’ve tried basic wheelchair cushions with little to no positive results
What is set-up like for the Remedic Gel Seat Cushion with Incontinence Pad?
The Remedic Gel Seat Cushion with Incontinence Pad requires no set-up and is very intuitive to use and clean. This cushion comes in a fitted storage bag for easy protection and transport. Just remove the cushion and place in a flat seating system, and then remove the cover by opening the zipper for sanitation.
Benefits of the Remedic Seat Cushion with Incontinence Pad
The Remedic Gel Seat Cushion with Incontinence Pad provides seniors with a multitude of benefits, including:
- Increased comfort during prolonged sitting
- Reduced tension in the back, hips, and thighs
- A great alternative to traditional, non-gel cushions
- Minimizing odors and body matter that could lead to infection
- Reducing risk for sores, wounds, and hospitalization
- Easy cleaning for repeated use
- Increased quality of life
Professionals who may Recommend the Remedic Seat Cushion with Incontinence Pad
Gel cushions are commonly used in healthcare facilities that require wheelchairs, including hospitals, assistive living centers, nursing homes, transitional care units, etc. Seniors who live in private residence may also utilize gel cushions if they sit routinely in wheelchairs or recliners. Professionals who may recommend the Remedic Gel Seat Cushion with Incontinence Pad include occupational therapists, physical therapists, speech-language pathologists, nursing staff, primary physicians, medical equipment providers, or any healthcare worker who closely works with seniors and individuals with incontinence and who are at risk for compromised skin integrity.
Equipment used to Enhance use of the Remedic Gel Seat Cushion with Incontinence Pad
The Remedic Gel Seat Cushion with Incontinence Pad pairs well with any seating system that fits its dimensions. Other equipment that complements the safe use of this cushion could include, but is not required, is:
- A contoured back support for additional comfort
- Well-fitted footrests to prevent sliding out of the wheelchair
- Comfy lateral supports along the armrests and/or back support for postural stability
Who the Remedic Gel Seat Cushion with Incontinence Pad may not be Suitable For
Like all gel cushions, the Remedic Gel Seat Cushion with Incontinence Pad will not prevent wounds and skin breakdown entirely unless the user can reposition regularly, with or without assistance. This cushion may not be suitable for seniors with:
- Currently staged or non-healing wounds along the hips, back, tailbone, or thighs
- Uneven pressure distribution from spinal deformities (i.e. scoliosis)
- Poor hip flexibility that causes them to periodically slide out of their chair
- Limited mobility and no assistance to reposition every 15-30 minutes throughout the day
- Orders from a primary physician to use other medical-grade cushions
- Hip measurements width and depth greater than the cushion dimensions (42 x 36 x 4.5cm/16.5 x 14 x 2 inches)
Conclusion
Arthritis and incontinence can result in consequences that greatly limit a senior’s ability to perform daily living tasks and to lead a higher quality of life. The Remedic Gel Cushion with Incontinence Pad provides seniors with flexibility and convenience for comfortable sitting and reduced risk for embarrassment and illness. Consult with an occupational therapist to determine if the Remedic Gel Cushion with Incontinence Pad is right for you.
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