Memory Foam

Memory foam is a type of cushioning that can be plied into any shape necessary, depending on the size and weight of the person sitting on it, and it will bounce back to its original shape in an instant without fail. The term memory comes from the material's ability to remold itself into the original form regardless of how many times it has been used; memory foam will always "remember" the shape it is intended to be and rebound to its original form.

A famous example of the ability of this foam to retain its shape was seen in an advertisement in which a person firmly placed their hand onto a section of memory foam. As soon as the hand was lifted, the foam fully expanded and showed no indication that anything had been placed on top of it.

How it works

The foam is a very elastic type of material, so by nature, it is inclined to retain a particular shape. Once a piece of foam has been sculpted into a product such as a wheelchair cushion, the elasticity will help keep it in the same condition it was after being shipped from the manufacturer. Foam is soft and pliable, so it can easily be pushed around to match the contour of a person sitting on it, but memory foam will not lose its shape even after long-term use.

Memory foam was initially created by NASA scientists who were working to find a material that could withstand the forces that would be exerted upon it during the launch of a space shuttle. Eventually, it was discovered and used by the medical industry, upon which it spread to general household use.

Benefits of memory foam

Due to their ability to continuously reshape themselves, memory foam products are very long-lasting. They are also extremely comfortable because of their flexible nature. Any person may sit on a cushion, and the foam will adjust itself to the contours of their body. This provides extra support and encourages blood flow, which helps eliminate sores and bruises that are sometimes brought on by inactivity.

Although memory foam was never used by NASA as intended, it has been an extremely beneficial product nonetheless. People who spend time in wheelchairs will require a good cushion for comfort, support, and proper posture. Memory foam cushions will provide all of that and more.