AAA

Assistive Devices & Wheelchair Assessment Program

Mobility and well-being

Mobility is crucial to our total well-being - especially for people who require assistive devices such as wheelchairs, walkers or artificial limbs. Considering that over time mobility can be compromised, having a well-prescribed wheelchair or assistive device can mean the difference between independence and being dependent on others. Gaylord's Assistive Devices and Wheelchair Assessment Service can improve mobility through the proper recommendation of customized wheelchairs and other assistive devices.

Wheelchair Assessment Service

The Wheelchair Assessment Service is coordinated by registered physical therapists who are certified Assistive Technology Providers (ATP) with advanced training in seating and positioning. Rehab Technology Suppliers (RTS) are present at evaluations to assist in equipment selection and to provide the equipment to clients An added benefit is that proper evaluation and prescription can reduce costs associated with preventable complications that result from ill-fitting equipment such as:

Orthopedic deformity
Loss of skin integrity
Chronic pain syndromes
Depression

What happens during a wheelchair assessment?

A Wheelchair Assessment Service appointment consists of a comprehensive evaluation to assess the following areas:

Goals and needs of the equipment user
Current and previous equipment
Functional abilities
Environments in which the equipment will be used in including home, work and school
Physical assessment including skin and soft tissue, passive range of motion, tone, active movement, pain, posture, balance, sensation and endurance

Through this evaluation, the goals of the seating and mobility system are determined. Extensive equipment simulation is performed to assist the wheelchair user and clinicians in equipment selection. Gaylord’s clinicians work closely with equipment manufacturers to ensure that a wide variety of state-of-the-art equipment options are available for wheelchair users to trial. Our clinicians stay abreast of ongoing developments in federal legislation affecting mobility equipment, in order to make appropriate recommendations.

Goals for a wheelchair assessment include:

Maximizing independence with mobility
Recommending equipment that is functional, safe and comfortable
Improving posture and function while seated in a wheelchair
Preventing secondary complications caused by ill-fitting or malfunctioning equipment including orthopedic deformity, loss of skin integrity, pain and depression

Additional services include:

Computerized pressure mapping assessments to determine how to provide optimal pressure relief while seated in a wheelchair
Standing frame evaluations
Custom molded seat cushion and back support fabrication