ACTNow 2025

This course will provide information pertaining to mobility base selection and the impact on function. Dependent, manual, and power mobility bases will be reviewed. As part of this course, we will discuss the application of mobility equipment to support the needs of the client regarding posture, functional independence, and participation in iADLS/mRADLs. Additionally, the course will review specific challenges related to the assessment and prescription of mobility bases, current evidence, and client-specific factors to consider in the decision-making process.

1. Participants will identify three justifications for selecting a K0005 versus K0004 manual wheelchair base.

2. Participants will compare and contrast the differences between rotational and knee pivot tilt bases.

3. Participants will identify 3 types of power mobility bases.

4. Participants will identify 3 MRADLs where participation can be optimized using power seat elevate.

Providing a client with independent mobility through a power wheelchair can be life-changing for the individual. However, in many cases, driving with a standard joystick is simply not an option for the client due to physical and/or intellectual limitations. The good news is that there are numerous adaptations and alternative drive controls that can be utilized to drive a power wheelchair. During this one-hour educational session, participants will be introduced to a variety of equipment, adaptations, and concepts that may improve their clients' level of success with finding greater independence through power mobility.

1. Participants will list 3 factors to consider during the assessment process to match technology pertaining to power wheelchair control with the rider.

2. Participants will compare and contrast 5 mechanical and electronic switches.

3. Participants will determine 2 programming parameters for specialty input devices to optimize successful and safe control of the wheelchair.

Learn what new technology is available today. Direct hands-on session/s (1.0 hr) - 1 hour

1. Person-centered care—why it matters, what it is

2. RESNA Wheelchair Service Provision Guide (phases of assessment)

3. Roles of the providers, ethical considerations

4. How to conduct an OT/PT evaluation (overview of areas to assess, mat exam, physical assessment; sample forms)

5. Helpful resources: forms, CTF, NRRTS webinars, Clinician’s Resource Guide, 2nd edition

Session Learning Objectives

1. Define person-centered care and its impact on outcomes for the client.

2. Name the eight (8) phases of the wheelchair service provision process.

3. Name at least three (3) resources for learning more about best practices in CRT provision.

1. Basic information about the mat exam, webinar resources

2. Biomechanics of seated posture (i.e., how to apply forces to accommodate or correct postural deviations)

3. Overview of seating products (linear, off-the-shelf, custom)

4. How to conduct seating simulations/trials

5. Interactive activity

Session Learning Objectives

1. Name at least one (1) postural deviation in the frontal, sagittal, and transverse planes.

2. Explain the difference between “neutral” posture and “optimum” posture for individuals with postural asymmetries.

3. Describe how to use three points of control in the application of force in wheelchair seating.

1. ON time mobility, principles of pediatric powered mobility

2. Types of pwcs (FWD, MWD, RWD) and power seat functions

3. Power assist

4. Sensor technologies (LUCI, Braze)

Session Learning Objectives

1. Describe a core principle of ON Time Mobility and why it is important to child development.

2. Explain one (1) functional or medical benefit for each of the following power seat functions: tilt, recline, seat elevation, elevating leg rests, anterior tilt, stand.

3. Describe a practical application of sensor technologies like Braze or LUCI.

1. Assessment of alternative access methods

2. Overview of alternative access devices

3. Integrating the pwc

Session Learning Objectives

1. Explain the difference between direct and indirect access methods for operating a power wheelchair.

2. Explain the difference between momentary activation and sustained activation.

3. List one (1) advantage and one (1) disadvantage of using a proportional control, a digital control, and a scanning method for operating a power wheelchair.

Individuals with chronic medical conditions and long-term disabilities who have a permanent need for a wheelchair require a comprehensive, detailed evaluation of their physical, functional, and environmental needs to allow clinicians and ATP suppliers to make appropriate Assistive Technology recommendations for a successful outcome.

This course will examine the clinical decision-making process and algorithmic approach to mobility assistive equipment trial and recommendation. This course will also serve as a review of preventative therapeutic use of powered seating features that allow end users increased independence, not only in daily activities but also in the importance of medical management when caregiver and therapy resources may be limited. The use of powered features will be reviewed in regard to management of frequent co-morbidities and medical conditions such as: orthostatic hypotension, edema, contracture/tone management, pressure injury prevention, and the application of positioning components that can aid in decreasing the complications of skeletal deformities over time. Many times, end users may be overlooked for their potential of meeting power wheelchair criteria that could provide them increased functional independence and control within their environments and to help be a part of preventing further medical complications. It is known that over 60,000 people in the United States die each year from pressure injuries alone, and we know that utilization of pressure re-distribution for those lacking sensation and independent mobility can reduce this by giving the user control of their repositioning.

Ambulatory aids, manual wheelchairs, scooters (POVs), and power wheelchairs are designed to augment function when functional mobility is compromised or lost. For many geriatric end-users, there is not only medical diagnosis and presentation, but also aging with a disability, additional comorbidities, on top of general deconditioning related to age that all play significant roles in the relationship to the end-user and their mobility equipment. This course will focus on the goals, focus, and recommendations for this population.

This course on Complex Rehab Technology (CRT) service delivery explores the essential components from evaluation to delivery, including the use of objective assessments, equipment selection, procurement procedures, and final delivery. Research supports the value of a collaborative team approach throughout these stages, leading to more appropriate equipment choices and better client outcomes. As service delivery becomes increasingly central in the field, this course examines its relevance to both ultralight manual wheelchairs and custom power wheelchairs, including the seating and positioning components. A well-fitted ultralight manual wheelchair can significantly enhance mobility and daily function for individuals across the lifespan. Similarly, a carefully selected power wheelchair can promote independence and improve quality of life. However, clinicians and suppliers often face the challenge of pairing rapid technological advancements with slower-moving funding systems. This makes it vital to equip clients with informed choices that support long-term health, functionality, and engagement in life activities. Through evidence-based insights and real-world case studies, this session will outline strategies for achieving optimal outcomes. It will also address the importance of thorough documentation that clearly connects client-specific needs with the recommended CRT.

Objectives

1. Describe two impacts of incorrect frame geometries on the overall wheelchair footprint, focusing on stability, balance, and function in custom manual wheelchairs.

2. Identify three key outcome measures for manual chairs, power chairs, and mobility equipment that enhance function, fit, and client satisfaction.

3. Explain two barriers to wheelchair users accessing technology and provide solutions to overcome these obstacles.

4. Identify two common concerns about providing power mobility devices to very young children and older adults, and understand evidence to address these concerns.

5. Interpret three research-based recommendations on applying power wheelchair features like seat elevation, anterior tilt, and standing in evidence-based practice.

In recent years, numerous articles have highlighted the negative effects of prolonged sitting and the benefits of movement and standing. Standing desks and workstations have become common in both workplaces and homes. But what options do your clients who require wheelchairs for mobility have? Prolonged sitting has detrimental effects on both the able-bodied population and our patients/clients. Prolonged sitting leads to increased comorbidities and medical expenses, making it crucial to consider standing frames and standing power mobility as solutions. This course will explore the medical and functional benefits of standing, the ongoing costs of prolonged sitting, and how to leverage current evidence to justify and document the use of standing devices.

Objectives

1. Highlight 3 key considerations when evaluating power standing mobility for a client.

2. Provide 2 illustrative examples of dosage expectations in power standing mobility.

3. Detail 2 critical components of programming for successful power standing mobility.