Assistive Technology, Seating & Wheeled Mobility

Assistive Technology is any item, piece of equipment, or software program that is used to improve or maintain the functional capabilities of persons with disabilities. Assistive technology can include computers and tablets, eye-tracking software, switches, keyboards, customized mounts, and much, much more.

During an assistive technology evaluation, our therapists help patients determine the best assistive technology to meet their needs at home, at work, at school, and in the community. Throughout the evaluation, we encourage the full participation of the user, his or her family, and other professionals who may be part of the team. This evaluation process begins with a determination of the patient’s goals, followed by an assessment of the physical and cognitive abilities that are relevant to those goals. We assess other factors, such as the environment in which the equipment will be used and the support and training available for the equipment. A selection of products of potential benefit is then made available for trial. This way, the final choice can be based on experience rather than on sales information and literature alone.

After a complete evaluation, exact product specifications and options are decided. In some cases, a knowledgeable rehabilitation technology supplier or vendor may be present to assist in the final selection of equipment. When all decisions are complete, the therapist will submit a report to available funding sources that will detail and justify all equipment recommended. Our staff may also assist in setting up the equipment and training the consumer on how to use it. We may also modify equipment or manufacture custom equipment when needed.

Long-term wheelchair users find that a variety of factors affect their day-to-day function, such as posture, comfort, and mobility. In recent years a wealth of new cushions, positioning aids, wheelchairs, and control mechanisms have become available which can be mixed and matched to suit individual needs. Careful selection of a powered or manual wheelchair and seating system can optimize independent mobility and ensure pressure reduction and comfort. In our Arnold Goldman Center showroom, we have on-site products for trial from pediatric adaptive strollers, high-performance ultralightweight manual wheelchairs, highly complex power wheelchairs and seat/back cushions. In addition, our seating and wheeled mobility specialists are very knowledgeable in bath safety equipment, adaptive standers, adaptive school chairs, patient transfer devices, hospital beds, and sleep support surfaces for individuals at high risk of skin breakdown.