Spending long periods sitting, whether in a wheelchair, armchair or at the table, can lead to discomfort or more serious issues like pressure sores and back pain. Pressure relief cushions are designed to reduce these risks, improving comfort and posture while helping your parent stay mobile and independent for longer.
This guide looks at a few cushions available online, each with a different focus: from full wheelchair support to targeted tailbone relief. Here's a breakdown of what each one offers.
It is worth highlighting how local rehabilitation services might provide this type of equipment for free - if deemed necessary following a formal assessment.
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If you’ve found a product that’s made a real difference to your parent, we’d love to hear about it. Please get in touch at hello@carents.co.uk and help us share with others in the Carents community.
1. PEPE Pressure Relief Mobility Wheelchair Cushion
Designed specifically for wheelchairs, this cushion from PEPE features a memory foam core and waterproof, breathable cover. It's shaped to offer firm but gentle support across the seat and lower back, helping relieve pressure and improve posture. It's also lightweight and can be repositioned on normal chairs.
Pros
✔️ High-density viscoelastic foam – Offers strong pressure relief
✔️ Waterproof and breathable cover – Easy to clean and reduces sweat build-up
✔️ Antibacterial and anti-mite fabric – Hygienic for everyday use
✔️ Ergonomic design – Encourages better seated posture
Cons
❌ May be too firm for users preferring soft cushioning
🏆 Best for: Wheelchair users needing daily support and posture improvement
2. ERGONOMIC INNOVATIONS Donut Cushion
This donut cushion from Ergonomic Innovations is shaped to ease tailbone and lower back pressure. Designed for use on chairs and car seats, it helps relieve pain from haemorrhoids, sciatica, or post-surgery recovery. The soft-yet-firm memory foam evenly distributes weight and avoids direct pressure on sore areas.
Pros
✔️ Pressure-free centre – Ideal for tailbone, haemorrhoid or surgery relief
✔️ Versatile – Works on office chairs, dining chairs, car seats and more
✔️ Lightweight – Easy to take from room to room
✔️ Breathable mesh cover – Keeps things cool
Cons
❌ Not suitable for wheelchair users needing full seat support
❌ May flatten slightly over time with daily use
🏆 Best for: Occasional use to relieve targeted tailbone or coccyx discomfort
3. UVON Innovation Donut Cushion
This scientifically designed donut cushion by AUVON offers a slightly firmer, more structured design than typical ring cushions. Made with high-density memory foam, it’s tailored for pressure relief during long sitting sessions. The anti-slip base helps keep the cushion securely in place, ideal for users who may shift often when seated.
Pros
✔️ Orthopaedic shape – Promotes better spinal alignment
✔️ Non-slip bottom – Stays in place on most chairs
✔️ Balanced firmness – Doesn’t sink excessively
✔️ Machine-washable cover – Easy maintenance
Cons
❌ Doesn’t offer full seating support for those with general mobility issues
🏆 Best for: Extended seated tasks with mild to moderate tailbone discomfort
4. AUVON Seat Cushion for Wheelchairs
This AUVON cushion is built for all-day wheelchair use. It combines a contoured surface with a breathable and waterproof cover for personalised comfort. The cushion is especially helpful for users prone to overheating or needing support tailored to their body shape. Its non-slip underside provides security on smooth wheelchair seats.
Pros
✔️ Breathable mesh cover – Reduces sweat and moisture build-up
✔️ Waterproof and easy to clean – Suits long-term daily use
✔️ Contoured base – Supports hips and lower back alignment
Cons
❌ Can be fiddly to reassemble after washing
🏆 Best for: Long-term wheelchair users needing adaptive support and hygiene-friendly design
Which Cushion Would Suit Your Parent?
Each pressure relief cushion in this guide offers something slightly different, depending on how and where it’s used:
🧼 Most Hygienic: PEPE Mobility Cushion – Waterproof, antibacterial and breathable
🚗 Best for Car or Chair Use: ERGONOMIC INNOVATIONS Donut – Tailbone relief on most seats
🔒 Most Secure Fit: UVON Donut Cushion – Non-slip and firm for those who move often
🔁 Most Adjustable: AUVON Wheelchair Cushion – Personalised support with washable cover
Whether you're supporting a parent who uses a wheelchair daily or just wants more comfort while sitting at the table, the right cushion can relieve pain, prevent sores, and support independence.
Have you found a cushion that’s made a difference for your elderly parent? We'd love to hear about it. Your recommendations help others find comfort and support too. Drop us a line at hello@carents.co.uk and share what’s worked for you.
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This article may contain affiliate links. If you choose to make a purchase via these links, we may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. We may also receive compensation from partners for featuring their products, which supports the continued running of Carents.co.uk and our services at no cost to users. We only suggest products we genuinely believe may help. Carents accepts no responsibility for the quality, safety, or suitability of any third-party products. If you choose to make a purchase you do so at your own risk.Got a product to recommend? Email us at hello@carents.co.uk.