Power to GO! Supporting Young Children’s Use of Power Mobility

Presented by Maria Jones

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Children with severe motor impairments present unique challenges when addressing mobility needs. This course will underscore the importance of mobility on the development of young children. It will review the latest research about the effects of power mobility on the development and function of young children. The course also will discuss strategies for teaching young children to use power mobility and encourage therapists to use their knowledge and skills to influence product design and development.

Meet your instructor

Maria Jones

Maria A. Jones, PT, PhD, is a program director and clinical professor at Oklahoma City University (OCU). She is developing a physical therapy education program at OCU. She also consults with the Oklahoma Health Care Authority (Oklahoma’s Medicaid program) about policy and authorization of durable medical equipment and…

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Chapters & learning objectives

Impact of Mobility on Development

1. Impact of Mobility on Development

This chapter will emphasize the importance of mobility on the development of young children and discuss why therapists should facilitate and encourage the use of power mobility for children with severe motor impairments.

Applying the Evidence About Power Mobility

2. Applying the Evidence About Power Mobility

Therapists have a responsibility for using evidence-based practices and translating knowledge into practice. This chapter will explain the latest research about early power mobility and discuss how therapists can implement findings into practice.

Supporting Children to Use Power Mobility

3. Supporting Children to Use Power Mobility

A variety of factors influence how quickly children learn to use power mobility. Therapists must understand these factors and incorporate teaching strategies that build on a child’s existing abilities while encouraging more advanced skill development. This chapter will review the factors related to learning, propose strategies to use when providing power mobility experiences, and discuss how therapists can measure progress.

Therapists’ Role in Product Development and Design

4. Therapists’ Role in Product Development and Design

Therapists are in a unique position to critique power mobility devices and provide feedback for the development and design of future products. They can also encourage user input into product development and design. This chapter will discuss some recent technology advancements and underscore the roles therapists can play in the service delivery process. This chapter also will provide suggestions for therapists to get started on influencing product development and design.