Page 3 - Before your appointment:
3 Chapter I: Where do I start? A wheelchair consists of many variables, which all need to be configured to a specific individual. No two wheelchairs are alike when done properly. In addition, it needs to fit like a pair of shoes, since it will not only act as a mobility device, but also the user’s s...
Page 5 - FAQ on early provision of independent mobility; drive
5 Chapter II: FAQ on early provision of independent mobility Why is efficient mobility a priority? Children learn through exploring their environments. Without efficient and independent mobility, you child is more likely to develop dependency on others. Think about how a child learns: approaching ob...
Page 8 - Power wheelchair bases; Front wheel drive
8 Chapter III: Power wheelchair bases When selecting your first power chair, chances are that you will be overwhelmed with the selection and the features. You may feel like making a quick selection since you have so many other medical issues to worry about. The decision, however, is very important s...
Page 12 - Seat functions; Allows independent orientation change
12 Chapter IV: Seat functions Seat functions may seem intimidating or an “overkill” sometimes. They do, however, serve many functions in the areas of prevention, enhanced function and comfort. Try to simulate some of those functions so you can experience for yourself what they mean – imagine a Lazy ...
Page 16 - May allow use of a public urinal for male users
16 • Less gastro-intestinal complications, because there is less pressure on the internal GI organs • May allow use of a public urinal for male users • Increases self confidence by allowing to assume an “equal”, standing position and eye to eye conversations
Page 17 - Seating systems; accommodate
17 Chapter V: Seating systems Proper selection and professional guidance in the seating system is of utmost importance, since it is the ultimate interface between the user and the wheelchair. This is the seating system surrounding the client all day, and can make all the difference in comfort, sitti...
Page 20 - Controls / Electronic interfaces / Access methods
20 Chapter VI: Controls / Electronic interfaces / Access methods The advancement of power wheelchair electronics in the past couple of decades has been quite amazing. There is a variety of access methods available to control the movement of a power wheelchair as well as the seat functions. In fact, ...
Page 22 - Single switch scanning
22 hand, elbows, feet, or just about anywhere where consistent movement is detected. Many users with SMA may opt for fiber optic switches, which can detect very slight motion in any direction and can be placed anywhere around the body. • Single switch scanning If all else fails but the user has cons...
Page 23 - Funding; Basic client data
23 Chapter VII: Funding The key to obtaining funding is good documentation. You should work with professionals who have expertise and credibility to supply such documentation. It is always recommended to have a physical or occupational therapist involved with the process in addition to the physician...
Page 24 - the same or comparable features
24 Description of the need and requirements should always precede description of the final product. • Assessment methods and clinical trials. The reviewer needs to be able to follow your team’s thought process. How did they come to the conclusion that this is the appropriate device? A brief descript...