Wheelchair Power Mobility Assessment: Proportional Driving Methods
Presented by Michelle L. Lange
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Most people who use a power wheelchair use a joystick mounted at the end of one arm pad. However, some people are unable to drive a power wheelchair with this driving method. A wide variety of driving methods are available, including proportional and nonproportional driving methods. This course will present proportional driving methods including standard, compact, heavy duty, and mini proportional joysticks. Mounting options will also be addressed as the driver may need a different joystick placement to drive the power wheelchair. Clinicians need to be familiar with power wheelchair driving methods in order to participate in the evaluation process. This course will present specific power wheelchair proportional driving methods and clinical indicators for each.
Meet your instructor
Michelle L. Lange
Michelle is an occupational therapist with 35 years of experience and has been in private practice, Access to Independence, for over 15 years. She is a well-respected lecturer, both nationally and internationally, and has authored numerous texts, chapters, and articles. She is the coeditor of Seating and Wheeled Mobility:…
Chapters & learning objectives
1. Standard Joysticks
This chapter will present a definition, clinical indicators, and information about mounting standard joysticks on a power wheelchair. It will also address specific placement, including angles, to best match a client’s needs.
2. Compact and Heavy-Duty Joysticks
This chapter will present a definition, clinical indicators, and information about mounting heavy-duty joysticks on a power wheelchair. Heavy-duty joysticks are sometimes used for clients who exert a great deal of force on the joystick, which would otherwise lead to damage.
3. Mini Proportional Joysticks
This chapter will present a definition and clinical indicators for mini proportional joysticks on a power wheelchair. Mini proportional joysticks require significantly less travel and force to activate, making these appropriate for many people with muscle weakness.
4. Mini Proportional Joystick Mounting
Mini proportional joysticks are often used at the chin or hand. Various mounting options for either location will be presented, along with clinical indicators for each.
More courses in this series
Wheelchair Power Mobility Assessment: Determining Readiness
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Power Chair Configuration Considerations
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Wheelchair Power Mobility Assessment: Power Seating
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Wheelchair Power Mobility Assessment: Proportional Driving Methods
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Wheelchair Power Mobility Assessment: Nonproportional Driving Methods
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Wheelchair Power Mobility: Mobility Training
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Wheelchair Power Mobility: Advanced Features
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