Specialised service assists people in wheelchairs

Specialised service assists people in wheelchairs

12 December 2013

More than 500 people who use wheelchairs were assessed for equipment last year through the Wheelchair and Seating Outreach Clinic.

This service is offered by Enable New Zealand and is run by three highly skilled wheelchair and seating clinicians.

Clinics are held around New Zealand, covering areas from Gisborne across to New Plymouth and down to Southland.

Assessment at clinics aims to achieve optimal comfort and alignment for people while in their wheelchair and during sleep. Intervention includes: manual and power wheelchairs, cushions, backrests; and equipment for 24 hour positioning. Twenty-four hour positioning evaluates people’s position during the day and aims to achieve optimal alignment. Equipment can be issued for use on bed, alternative chairs or the floor to achieve this.

Funded by the Ministry of Health, this service started as a pilot in Christchurch and Lower Hutt in 2001 and has grown by leaps and bounds.

If you’re an Occupational Therapist or Physical Therapist and would like to refer someone to this service contactoutreach@enable.co.nz, visit www.enable.co.nz, or phone 0800 ENABLE.

ENDS

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