The AutoSlide makes the turn into and out of a car seat far easier. It is two padded sections whose inner faces are made from ULF, an ultra low friction material, so they slide against each other. The client sits on the edge of the seat, then turns and slides back into position with a fraction of the effort car upholstery demands.
A tension strap fastens around the back of the car seat so the cushion cannot creep forward, and there are sturdy handles on both sides so a carer can help with the turn from the other side of the car. The outer is polyester, and the cushion stays in place for the journey as a comfortable seat pad. Wash it without fabric softener and keep it out of the tumble dryer and it will last for years.
Who it suits
A client who can stand or pivot to the edge of a car seat but struggles to turn their hips and legs in, for example after a hip replacement, with Parkinson’s, or with stiff hips and knees. It also reduces the pull on a carer’s back when they help with the turn. A client who cannot bear weight at all needs a transfer board, swivel seat or a vehicle with a hoist rather than a sliding cushion.
Good to know
- Fit the smaller section rough side down on the car seat and tighten the strap around the seat back
- The client must wear the seatbelt as normal; the cushion stays in place while driving
- Check seams, handles and the sliding surface regularly, and after every wash
- Manufacturer code 8100; sold by Direct Healthcare Group under the SystemRoMedic brand
