Getting Started with Power Mobility

Not sure where to start when introducing power mobility into a classroom environment? This tip sheet is for you! These tips are helpful for other environments as well.

Thumbnail of Getting Started with Power Mobility tipsheet

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Download a copy of our tips for getting started with power mobility:

Takeaways from Permobil’s “Considerations for Maneuvering Through School In A Wheelchair”

A panel discussion led by Angie Kiger

VEM’s Takeaways:

GOAL: Students in wheelchairs are engaged in activities alongside their peers; their equipment does not define them as a student.

Evaluation

  • EVERYONE on the team should be included in equipment evaluations
  • Consider a trial at school as well as home/clinic
  • Start early!

Communication and Collaboration

  • EVERYONE is responsible for ensuring collaboration between team members
  • Key collaboration is between SLP and PT/OT; consider AAC AND wheelchair access together
  • Over communicating is not a bad thing!

Commuting

  • Know the law for the state/district for what’s needed for bus transport
  • Do a trial run
  • Know and train multiple people to get the child on/off bus

School Environment

  • Assess the ENTIRE school (inside and outside) for accessibility
  • Have a solid evacuation plan
  • Have a back-up plan in case the wheelchair breaks
  • Use short, successful activities for training

What did you think of the webinar? Where could you use this information in your own work?