Physical therapists and occupational therapists frequently assist parents with the exploration and use of powered wheelchairs for their children with physical disabilities. The purpose of this study was to explore parents' experiences and perceptions of their children's experiences with the receipt and use of powered mobility. Qualitative methods were used to gain insight into the experiences of five mothers of children with physical disabilities who use powered wheelchairs. Information was collected during individual interviews with the mothers. Data analyses revealed five higher-level themes identified across the participants. Results of this study suggest that mothers initially perceive powered mobility as a "last resort" mobility option. The perceived effects of their children's use of powered mobility were significant and included increased personal control, independence, and opportunities to participate in age appropriate, meaningful activities. The mothers perceived that increased independence positively affected others' attitudes toward their children and allowed their children to develop more "legitimate" relationships with their peers.
The purpose of this study was to evaluate the use of powered mobility by young individuals with physical disabilities. The four study objectives were to: (a) describe the characteristics of children and adolescents who received powered wheelchairs at eighteen years of age or younger, (b) evaluate the longitudinal use or disuse of powered mobility by these participants, (c) describe the extent and locations of powered mobility use, and (d) explore environmental (i.e., physical, social and attitudinal) barriers and facilitators to successful powered mobility use with the participants and their families. Sixty-six families shared information during a structured telephone interview. The results of this study confirm that younger children are now receiving powered wheelchairs. The results also suggest that powered mobility is reserved for children with the most severe disabilities. Physical and occupational therapists can work collaboratively with more families to explore powered mobility as one of an array of early movement options.
The purpose of this study was to evaluate the use of powered mobility by young individuals with physical disabilities. The four study objectives were to: (a) describe the characteristics of children and adolescents who received powered wheelchairs at eighteen years of age or younger, (b) evaluate the longitudinal use or disuse of powered mobility by these participants, (c) describe the extent and locations of powered mobility use, and (d) explore environmental (i.e., physical, social and attitudinal) barriers and facilitators to successful powered mobility use with the participants and their families. Sixty-six families shared information during a structured telephone interview. The results of this study confirm that younger children are now receiving powered wheelchairs. The results also suggest that powered mobility is reserved for children with the most severe disabilities. Physical and occupational therapists can work collaboratively with more families to explore powered mobility as one of an array of early movement options.
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