Department of health statistics shows that there are at least two million new wheelchair users every year in the United States. The number has continued to grow for several reasons. One is the improved reporting and tracking of cases of disability, which has led to more comprehensive data. Secondly, more seniors are now using wheelchairs as mobility aids. The problem is that most wheelchair users and caregivers have very little information about the various components of this crucial mobility assistant.
Understanding the overall structure and working of a wheelchair is very important. But it is more important to know the various individual components of a wheelchair such as wheelchair backrests, wheelchair brakes, and wheelchair casters, among others. This article, however, focuses its attention on wheelchair arm pads, which are an important component, especially when it comes to comfort.
• Wheelchair Armrest Pads
Wheelchair armrest is the part where a wheelchair user places his/her hands when using the wheelchair. It is the part where one adjusts body weight, attains stability, and body support. Without armrests, it would be difficult to use a wheelchair. However, optimum use of wheelchair armrest is greatly enhanced by the use and availability of wheelchair arm pads.
Instead of placing your hands on an open metal rod, wheelchair arm pads present the comfort that every user needs. They allow you to handle wheelchair armrest without any difficulties. Any person who regularly uses a wheelchair understands how vital having comfortable armrest is. In most cases, it can only be achieved when there is a pad. However, you have to be cautious when choosing your wheelchair arm pad so that you can get a high-quality pad that still falls within your budget.
1. Washable Arm Pads
There are hundreds of arm pads out there which have been made using different materials. Some materials cannot be washed, which means that you will have to live with dirty armrest pads on your wheelchair. However, there are washable armrest pads out there in the stores. Therefore, if you are sensitive about the cleanliness of your wheelchair, you need to make sure that you purchase washable wheelchair arm pads.
2. User-Friendly
The ergonomic aspect of the wheelchair is an important aspect to consider. There is no need of buying a wheelchair component if it is not user-friendly. The friendliness of an armrest pad depends on material quality, wash ability, and density. Therefore, before you choose any armrest pad, it is important to analyze whether it adheres to your specific tastes and preferences of the user.
3. Leather Arm Pads
As highlighted earlier, different materials are used in making an arm pad. Cotton and leather are some of the most common materials used in making wheelchair arm pads. Pads made of cotton material have a quality finish and hence attractive. However, they are more likely to experience wear and tear within a short period means. This means that you will need to replace them more often.
On the other hand, a leather wheelchair armrest pad offers quality, longevity, and aesthetic value. A considerable number of people who have used a wheelchair for an extended period have high regard for leather armrest pads. They last for many years. However, you have to put up with the fact that they can get sweaty and respond poorly to fluctuations in temperature.
• Replacement of Wheelchair Arm Pads
Over time, any wheelchair pad will wear and tear, which means that you will need to replace. Since replacing an arm pad may be a bit expensive, you should make sure that you buy a quality armrest pad so that you can minimize replacement expenses.
Wheelchair arm pads are important components of any wheelchair. Therefore, as you try and assess the quality of a wheelchair’s components, ensure that particular attention is paid to the arm pads. Armrest pads provide significant benefits to wheelchair users. Besides the benefits, you must analyze various aspects when you are buying a wheelchair armrest pad.
