Getting Power Assist Prescription Right

Want to learn all things power assist and be able to get hands-on with the devices? If so, this session is for you.

Designed for OTs and physiotherapists, this session combines the clinical evidence behind upper limb preservation with practical, side-by-side device comparison you can't get from a brochure.

This session moves beyond the spec sheet - you'll trial rear attachment, push-rim, joystick, and front-mounted power assist devices so you can feel the differences in performance, control, and handling that matter most when scripting for your clients.

What you’ll learn

Understand why preservation of upper limb and shoulder function is central to power assist prescription, grounded in current clinical practice guidelines

Identify who benefits most from power assist: injury avoidance, energy conservation, peer mobility, and increased community access

Understand when a power assist device is the right fit versus stepping up to a power wheelchair

Differentiate the four main power assist categories - rear attachment, push-rim activated, joystick controlled, and front mounted - and their clinical indications

Compare device performance across weight, range, speed, incline handling, and control method to match the right device to the right client

Recognise the practical considerations for each device type, including transport, cognitive demand, terrain, and biomechanics

Trial multiple power assist devices firsthand, indoor and outdoors.

3 CPD Points

Presenters

Kayla Capurso

ILS Clinical Educator, Complex Rehab/Kids

Adriaan Biebaut

ILS Assistive Technology Professional, Complex Rehab

Contact the host of Sydney: Getting Power Assist Prescription Right