The Memory Seat Advantage: Improving Independence and Outcomes at the Touch of a Button

"There’s no way I can be expected to figure out this controller!"
"This is confusing—I’m worried I’ll get it wrong."
"I have too many support workers; it’ll be too hard to train them all."
"My manual tilt-in-space chair was easier for everyone."

These are just some of the concerns I’ve heard over the years from power wheelchair (PWC) users, their families, and care teams. Too often, the full potential of a PWC goes unrealised due to its perceived complexity and the fear of using it incorrectly.

Advancements in power wheelchair technology, such as pre-saved Memory Positions, have significantly improved ease of operation, decreasing potential confusion and stress. These features facilitate consistent and efficient positioning, which is essential for daily functional activities.

Research highlights that while wheelchair users recognise seat functions as integral to their comfort and functional needs, adherence to prescribed regimes—such as those aimed at optimising pressure relief—remains inconsistent (Schofield et al., 2013). Given this challenge, it is crucial to emphasise both the importance and clinical rationale behind these functions, alongside comprehensive training on their appropriate use and safety considerations (Liu et al., 2013). However, despite regular training and education, the full potential of power wheelchairs to support functional goals is often underutilised.

By integrating Memory Positions, therapists can have confidence that clinical recommendations are embedded into everyday wheelchair use, promoting alignment with therapeutic goals and improving overall outcomes for the end user.

Real-World Applications of Memory Positions

I thought I would take a different spin on the blog this month. Below are real-world examples of how pre-saved Memory Positions have improved the function of a PWC for users and their carers. I want to share these examples with you, as they may help to solve current or future barriers.

1. Using Memory Positions to optimise posture and comfort  

A MAT assessment revealed that a wheelchair user could only tolerate a seated position with 80 degrees of hip flexion, yet their chair was often found with a seat-to-back angle of 90 degrees, resulting in discomfort and poor posture.

By programming and saving an exact seat-to-back angle to match the users position and range, the user could easily return to their optimal posture at the press of a button without the need for guesswork or a goniometer. This not only improved their posture and comfort throughout the day but also reduced uncertainty and apprehension among caregivers when operating power seat functions.

2. Simplifying Vehicle Transfers

A wheelchair user purchased an accessible vehicle but faced reduced head clearance when entering.

After problem-solving with the user and their team, it was determined that utilising power tilt and backrest recline in a specific sequence allowed for safe entry into the vehicle (note there was adequate head clearance once inside the vehicle to return to an upright position). Initially, family members and caregivers found this process daunting, fearing repetitive trial and error.

However, by saving the exact position required for this transfer (and naming it “Van Entry”), they could now confidently and consistently reposition the wheelchair, with the press of a button. Eliminating the stress of multiple failed attempts or causing harm to the wheelchair user.

3. Promoting Independent Repositioning

A wheelchair user experienced difficulty operating power seat functions due to visual impairments and a lack of confidence in using the joystick. As a result, hesitation in accessing and controlling seat adjustments often led to prolonged poor posture and discomfort throughout the day.

A personalised pressure relief position addressed this challenge by automating the clinically recommended pre-set sequence of posterior tilt, elevating leg rests, and recline, configured to 35 degrees of tilt and 120 degrees of backrest recline (RESNA, 2015).

Furthermore, the feature was latched to a button, allowing the user to activate the repositioning sequence without navigating through multiple seat functions on the joystick controller. This access facilitated greater independence and reduced the reliance on manual handling or hoisting by support workers to reposition.

Other clinical applications for memory positions to individualise the position to match function and the environment may include:

• Optimal positioning for bowel/bladder care
• Finding a safe and functional eating position
• Access to kitchen counters, workstations, or desks
• Finding an appropriate position for oedema management within available ranges
• Anterior tilt positions to allow for functional reach
• Anterior tilt position for active transfers
• Posterior tilt position and backrest recline for hoisting transfers

Empowering Users and Care Teams

When prescribing multiple power seat functions on a PWC, to achieve their desired outcome and help the user achieve their goals, it is imperative these functions are used correctly. However, understanding and executing precise positioning can be challenging for users and caregivers, even after training is provided.

By incorporating pre-saved Memory Positions, therapists can not only guide proper wheelchair usage but also empower users and care teams to achieve the best possible outcomes—simply, efficiently, and confidently.

If you are not sure where to start or how to do this, discuss saving memory positions on your next wheelchair trial – or feel free to reach out to any of the team for a brainstorming session.