Mothers' Perceptions of Their Children's Use of Powered Mobility

Abstract

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.

Toy-Based Technologies for Children with Disabilities Simultaneously Supporting Self-Directed Mobility, Participation, and Function: A Tech Report

“…Despite the adoption of the ICF, the current culture of pediatric rehabilitation and caregivers alike view the use of powered mobility devices as a "last resort, " once all other efforts toward the skill of walking have been exhausted (Bottos and Gericke, 2003;Wiart et al, 2004;Rosen et al, 2009;Feldner et al, 2016). This represents a dichotomous view of thinking suggesting that self-directed mobility should be achieved by either a powered mobility device or walking.…”

“…This represents a dichotomous view of thinking suggesting that self-directed mobility should be achieved by either a powered mobility device or walking. This dichotomous view may persist, in part, because researchers and caregivers have observed that the inability to walk is considered the most visible signifier of disability (Wiart et al, 2004;Daudji et al, 2011;Gibson and Teachman, 2012). For example, when comparing a walker device to a wheeled mobility device, a caregiver expresses Especially the kids at school, they think it's pretty neat that he's walking like they are.…”

“…Emerging research indicates that this sentiment is the consequence, in part, of a lack of positive disability narratives that challenge walking as the only means of "normalcy, " which, left unmitigated, often results in children with disabilities' internalization of stigma and low self-worth (Gibson et al, 2011;Gibson and Teachman, 2012). Several studies cite the role of rehabilitation professionals as key in either maintaining or challenging these established normative views on disability and walking (Wiart and Darrah, 2002;Bottos and Gericke, 2003;Wiart et al, 2004;Gibson et al, 2011;Gibson and Teachman, 2012).…”

Recipients of Electric-Powered Indoor/Outdoor Wheelchairs Provided by a National Health Service: A Cross-Sectional Study

“…One hundred and sixty nine users (31%) were provided with SS ( Recent recommendations emphasize the importance of motor and cognitive skills development and the ability to explore the environment as reasons for powered mobility being provided for very young children (aged 12-13 months onwards) [25][26][27] . In addition, early introduction of an EPIOC allows children and families to plan for future environmental adaptations and make proactive choices for housing and vehicles 27 .…”

“…In addition, early introduction of an EPIOC allows children and families to plan for future environmental adaptations and make proactive choices for housing and vehicles 27 . Consequently these issues need further publicity throughout the UK.…”