RESNA Position on the Application of Power Wheelchairs for Pediatric Users

Abstract

This document, approved by the Rehabilitation Engineering & Assistive Technology Society of North America (RESNA) Board of Directors in March 2007, shares typical clinical applications and provides evidence from the literature supporting the use of power wheelchairs for children.

A Humanoid Robot Companion for Wheelchair Users

“…Indeed, the Rehabilitation Engineering & Assistive Technology Society of North America supports the use of paediatric powered mobility as soon as the child possesses the necessary cognitive, sensorimotor and coping abilities [10]. According to the same study, the use of smart powered wheelchairs "enhances independence, improves psychosocial development and enables children to become productive and independent members of society".…”

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.…”

Current Status of the Utilization of Powered Wheelchair in Preschool Children with Locomotive Disability in Japan

“…Provision of a PWC, which can serve as a means of independent locomotion, to disabled preschool children with impaired independence in locomotion was effective for improving communication skills, expanding ranges of movement, and so forth, as described in several earlier reports [2][3][4][5][6] . By repeating a process comprising motivation, action, goal achievement, and satisfaction, children frequently experience senses of satisfaction and achievement.…”

“…Thus, for children with impaired self-propelled locomotion, a powered wheelchair (PWC) and other devices can be regarded as important welfare equipment for supporting these children in the formation of emotional and social functions 2,3) . Given this background, early provision of a PWC as a means of independent locomotion to children with impaired self-propelled locomotion during the preschool period reportedly activates exploratory activities, promotes mental and motor development, expands the range of play activities, and increases opportunities to play roles as children [2][3][4][5][6] . However, it has also been reported that the PWC is rarely introduced to preschool children with disabilities [6][7][8] .…”