Prescribing the right manual wheelchair is more than providing mobility—it’s about enabling independence, comfort, and quality of life. A well-prescribed wheelchair supports the user’s functional goals and integrates seamlessly into daily life. When the prescription misses the mark, users may experience discomfort, inefficient propulsion, or even long-term harm to their physical health, particularly to the shoulders and spine.

To further enhance outcomes for manual wheelchair users, power assist devices have the capability to augment mobility and optimise independence. But how do you determine the right device for each user?

Getting it right involves a thorough, evidence-based process that considers both clinical assessment outcomes and user preferences. Collaboration with the user ensures the wheelchair and power assist device are best suited not only to their body but also their lifestyle. We’ll explore best practice for manual wheelchair and power assist device prescription, starting with how to match product features and set-up to the user’s unique needs.

By understanding the relationship between wheelchair components, configuration and power assist devices in building a system for efficiency, you’ll be better equipped to deliver tailored solutions that truly make a difference.

Meet the Presenters:

Bianca Brady (Apex Mobility)

Bianca completed her Occupational Therapy degree in Sydney and has over 15 years of experience in the Australian health and community sectors.

Specialising in physical rehabilitation and addressing the challenges posed by neurological conditions that impact daily life, she has built a career focused on supporting others to overcome barriers and enhance their quality of life.

Having worked in diverse settings, Bianca combines hands-on experiences with a passion for education, focused on creating and delivering learning opportunities in the fields of seating and wheeled mobility. As a dedicated advocate for individuals who use assistive technology to achieve their life goals, Bianca is committed to fostering growth, learning, and empowerment among both clients and fellow clinicians.

Kate Pain (GTK)

Kate comes from an occupational therapy background, with two decades of experience in varied settings, specialising in wheelchair seating and positioning. She finds the evolution of power wheelchair alternate drive technology fascinating, and looks forward to exciting innovations becoming more readily available in power wheelchairs.

Kate really enjoys appointments with children who are trying out a wheelchair for the first time. She loves seeing the excitement in their eyes as they move independently for the first time – it’s contagious!

Kate also enjoys working with adults trialling a wheelchair for the first time, who have a lifetime of limiting perceptions about using a wheelchair, who then realise that the right equipment can amplify their abilities and enjoyment of life.

Optimising Manual Wheelchair and Power Assist Device Prescription: Getting the Best of Both Worlds (Newcastle)

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