Beyond the Standard Joystick: Alternative Drive Control Options for Power Wheelchairs

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 there are numerous adaptations and alternatives drive controls that can be utilized to drive a power wheelchair. During this one hour educational session participants will be introduced to variety of equipment, adaptations, and concepts that may improve their clients’ level of success with finding greater independence through power mobility.

Objectives:

1. Upon completion of this session, participants will be able to describe three clinical situations in which an alternative control may be required for a client to drive a power wheelchair. 
2. At the conclusion of this educational session, participants will be able to describe the difference between proportional & non-proportional drive controls. 
3. At the conclusion of this educational session, attendees will be able to compare and contrast at least five alternative drive controls and defend the clinical application of each.

Presenter:

Angie Kiger, M.Ed., CTRS, ATP/SMS is the Clinical Strategy and Education Manager for Sunrise Medical United States (US). She earned a Master of Education degree in Assistive Technology from George Mason University. Angie is an Assistive Technology Professional (ATP), Seating and Mobility Specialist (SMS), and a Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS). Angie has over 18 years of experience working in the field of assistive technology. Prior to joining the Sunrise Medical team in 2012, she worked with infants, children, and adults in both inpatient and outpatient settings. In addition to working as a clinician, Angie has served as an adjunct instructor at George Mason University and presented at numerous industry conferences in the US and abroad.