Power Mobility Resources

This is a supplemental guide to summarize alternative drive options and switch access to other modes for a power wheelchair. This resource begins with considerations for the assessment, then reviews the basic characteristics of various input drive controls, and finally delineates the various proportional and non-proportional options available.

After considering the importance of drive wheel position and power seat function requirements, often the next step in prescribing a power wheelchair is deciding how a client will drive the wheelchair and manage any power seat functions.

The benefits and clinical application of being able to program the end positions of each power seat function angle to create a unique "position" or posture for the client that can be achieved by a push of a button and/or the joystick was reviewed in the Memory Seat Functions Education in Motion resource. In order to allow users to take full advantage of the ability to personalize the memory seating feature available on QUICKIE power wheelchairs with the CxSM module, it is important that the client's wheelchair service provider or clinician program each position individually. This guide provides an easy-to-follow process for memory seat programming.

When considering power seat functions, it is important to consider all of the functional activities and tasks that a person needs to perform on a regular basis. Power seat functions and the setup of actuators means that we can program the chair to support and enable function in almost any task.

After considering the importance of drive wheel position, often the next step in this process is deciding which seat frame will best meet the client's needs both today and down the road. As we expect power wheelchairs to suit the client for multiple years, it is important to have adaptability and adjustability in the seat frame.