Course Description:

The purpose of this 1-hour interactive course is to consider practical strategies related to wheeled mobility evaluation and training for older adults. Older adults experience changes related to the aging process, but also may experience a number of other health issues. These individuals may demonstrate safety and mobility issues due to a variety of co-morbidities, cognitive changes and functional limitations.

This course will provide an overview of seating and mobility considerations for this population, including the clinical decision-making process. The best practice applications of manual wheelchairs; power assist technology; power wheelchair and power seat functions to promote safety, mobility and independence will be discussed. Wheelchair skills training techniques to ensure the client’s understanding of the equipment and to promote effective and safe use of the device will be reviewed. This will include, but not be limited to, strategies for optimal outcomes in seating, driving, and power seat function utilization.

Clinical evidence and case examples will be utilized to demonstrate best practice for seating and mobility solutions for this population. Various client presentations and equipment choices will be discussed, highlighting the process leading to equipment recommendation, justification, and training by the team.

By the end of this course, clinicians will have a better understanding of the changes that older adults or clients aging with a disability experience, as well as the ability to utilize best practice decision making in recommendations and training related to wheelchair seating and mobility for these individuals.