Wheelchair Power Mobility Assessment: Proportional Driving Methods

presented by Michelle L. Lange, OTR/L, ABDA, ATP/SMS

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Disclosure Statement:

Financial: Michelle Lange is consultant for Stealth Products which is manufacturer of wheelchair seating and mobility, LUCI- manufacturer of smart wheelchair technology and AbleNet – manufacturer of switches. Michelle Lange receives compensation from MedBridge for this course. There is no financial interest beyond the production of this course.

Non-Financial: Michelle Lange has no competing non-financial interests or relationships with regard to the content presented in this course.

Satisfactory completion requirements: All disciplines must complete learning assessments to be awarded credit, no minimum score required unless otherwise specified within the course.

MedBridge is committed to accessibility for all of our subscribers. If you are in need of a disability-related accommodation, please contact [email protected]. We will process requests for reasonable accommodation and will provide reasonable accommodations where appropriate, in a prompt and efficient manner.

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Video Runtime: 54 Minutes; Learning Assessment Time: 29 Minutes

Most people who use a power wheelchair use a joystick mounted at the end of one arm pad. However, some people are unable to drive a power wheelchair with this driving method. A wide variety of driving methods are available, including proportional and nonproportional driving methods. This course will present proportional driving methods including standard, compact, heavy duty, and mini proportional joysticks. Mounting options will also be addressed as the driver may need a different joystick placement to drive the power wheelchair. Clinicians need to be familiar with power wheelchair driving methods in order to participate in the evaluation process. This course will present specific power wheelchair proportional driving methods and clinical indicators for each.

Meet Your Instructor

Michelle L. Lange, OTR/L, ABDA, ATP/SMS

Michelle is an occupational therapist with 35 years of experience and has been in private practice, Access to Independence, for over 15 years. She is a well-respected lecturer, both nationally and internationally, and has authored numerous texts, chapters, and articles. She is the coeditor of Seating and Wheeled Mobility: A Clinical Resource Guide; editor of…

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Download the learning objectives for Wheelchair Power Mobility Assessment: Proportional Driving Methods.

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1. Standard Joysticks

This chapter will present a definition, clinical indicators, and information about mounting standard joysticks on a power wheelchair. It will also address specific placement, including angles, to best match a client’s needs.

2. Compact and Heavy-Duty Joysticks

This chapter will present a definition, clinical indicators, and information about mounting heavy-duty joysticks on a power wheelchair. Heavy-duty joysticks are sometimes used for clients who exert a great deal of force on the joystick, which would otherwise lead to damage.

3. Mini Proportional Joysticks

This chapter will present a definition and clinical indicators for mini proportional joysticks on a power wheelchair. Mini proportional joysticks require significantly less travel and force to activate, making these appropriate for many people with muscle weakness.

4. Mini Proportional Joystick Mounting

Mini proportional joysticks are often used at the chin or hand. Various mounting options for either location will be presented, along with clinical indicators for each.

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