Wheeled Mobility Assessment

Wheelchairs are designed for either independent or dependent mobility, are manual or powered and can either fold or not.  

Is it too heavy?  Can it be transported?  Are there too many moving parts?  Does it tilt to enhance postural control?  Does it facilitate an efficient push stroke? Can it be adjusted to accommodate growth and functional changes?  Is the back support appropriate? 

Powered Mobility Assessment

Assessment and education to enable safe function when using powered mobility equipment and assist to find the most appropriate powered mobility option, whether it is a powered wheelchair or a motorised mobility scooter.

If an alternative method of driving is needed beyond the traditional joystick maybe in the form of head, foot, elbow or a sip and puff control, we can assist in finding the solution to make this happen.

Even for those unable to independently control a powered wheelchair it could still be the preferred option.  An attendant control can reduce manual handling stress for carers as it eliminates the need to push.

Seating, Positioning and Postural Assessment

Pain, postural deformity, difficulty breathing and pressure injuries are all a consequence of poor seating.  Is it time for a seating reassessment?

When the muscles are unable to support the body as they are meant to, the seating system must provide the support. This requires assessment of physical posture and function to determine how a person sits and what overall muscle control is like. 

Pressure Injury Prevention and Management

Pressure injures also known as decubitus ulcers, pressure sores or bed sores and are caused by pressure against the skin which limits blood flow to the skin and nearby tissues.  They most often develop on skin that covers bony areas of the body, such as the heels, ankles, hips and tailbone.  They can develop quickly and are often difficult to treat. 

Pressure injuries are easier to prevent than treat and Newcastle Mobility can assist by making recommendations for appropriate pressure relieving equipment and repositioning strategies to minimise the risk of pressure injuries occurring.