Going The Distance: Why Power Wheelchair inner workings make a difference

OBJECTIVES

1. Identify the main components of a power wheelchair under the shroud

2. Understand how suspension functionally impacts a wheelchair user

3. Understand how motor size impacts the daily function of a wheelchair user

4. Know the difference between smart and basic actuators

Ensuring that you don’t over or under prescribe equipment can be difficult at times. Appropriate prescription of Power Wheelchairs can often be complex, especially as many of the key features can be hidden under the shroud or within the electronics. In this session we will uncover what is actually under the shroud of a power wheelchair and how these features impact users in a functional way. We will break down and discuss suspension, motors, electronics, actuators and programming in detail – you will leave this session with a clear understanding of what these features are, the functional impact these features have on wheelchair users and be confident when comparing options.

What you need to know:

Morning tea provided

Registration / arrival from 8am with a 8.30 start.

FREE to therapists to attend

3.5 hours awarded for CPD

All attendees will receive a certificate and summary hand out

About your Educator:

Roseanna Tegel BHthSc/MOT

Clinical Services Specialist

Roseanna Tegel joined Permobil in May 2023 as a Clinical Services Specialist. She graduated from Western Sydney University in 2016 with a Bachelor of Health Science/Master of Occupational Therapy and received the Prize in Undergraduate Occupational Therapy for Overall Achievement and the Cerebral Palsy Alliance scholarship. Roseanna began working at residential aged care facilities where her understanding of the need for suitable, person-centred equipment commenced. From there, she transitioned to work in community disability and quickly developed an interest for complex seating and mobility outcomes to benefit both the end user and wider network. She then stepped into a Team Leader role due to her passion for learning and best practice; supporting the Occupational Therapists with their own clinical needs and outcomes, and progressed to also provide external supervision to Occupational Therapists. Roseanna is motivated to support clinicians with their confidence and clinical reasoning allowing them to provide the best outcome for each individual user. Outside of work, Roseanna enjoys time with her dog, playing the 'cello, horse riding and aerial sports.