Assistive Technology: Power Wheelchair Approval

Our talented Queensland based Occupational Therapist, Kristin, had a fantastic client win! Kristin had a second power wheelchair approved for her participant, who is a 70 year old gent and local legend. To achieve this, Kristin strongly advocated the participant’s need for two power wheelchairs, with the second approved power wheelchair allowing him the ability to reach all surfaces in his home, interact at eye level with his mates and see over the crowd at local NRL games. This is the first time in 30 years of having his injury that he has had elevate, lift and reach functions – the participant is so happy – the photo really says it all!

Why are power wheelchairs such a great Assistive Technology option for participants who require assistance with mobility? Power wheelchairs have several benefits over traditional manual wheelchairs. Some of the benefits of a power wheelchair include:

1. Greater Independence: When using a power wheelchair, participants who have difficulty pushing themselves in a manual wheelchair can still get around independently. This can help to enhance their overall quality of life, and also increase their confidence.
2. Increased Mobility: Power wheelchairs are designed to navigate various terrains, such as uneven surfaces, or surfaces that incline or decline. This makes them a great option for participants who want to go outdoors, or need to travel longer distances.
3. Reduced Physical Strain: Whilst manual wheelchairs require the participant to use their upper body strength to move around, this could potentially cause strain and fatigue over time. In contrast, when using a power wheelchair, the participant only needs to control the joystick, reducing the strain on their upper body.
4. Customisable: Power wheelchairs can be customised to fit the participant’s specific needs, such as seat width, height, and tilt. This can help to increase comfort and reduce the risk of pressure sores.
5. Improved Socialisation: Power wheelchairs can help participants with mobility impairments to participate in social activities, such as going to the events, and visiting friends and family. This can help to reduce feelings of isolation and improve overall mental health.

If your participant has mobility impairments and would like to improve their quality of life by increasing independence, mobility, and socialisation, contact our wonderful team of Occupational Therapists who can explore Assistive Technology options for you.

Our local team of Occupational Therapists visit you in your home, school, workplace or other community locations to provide treatment plans with the support and care you need.

Contact Us Today!

If you’re after Occupational Therapy or Allied Health assistance for Assistive Technology, please get in touch with our friendly team to discuss our different services, and how our skilled therapists can assist you or your participant with our Occupational Therapy, Physiotherapy, Speech Pathology, or Behaviour Support services.
Phone: 1300 340 440
Email: info@national360.com.au
Contact our team here, or learn more about our Occupational Therapy services here.

If you would like to learn more about Assistive Technology and the NDIS, you can read more about it on the Assistive technology explained page on the NDIS website here.