Promoting Self-exploration and Function Through an Individualized Power Mobility Training Program

In Brief Purpose: This case report describes the development and implementation of an intervention program that used a Power Wheelchair Trainer (Trainer) to enable an individual with severe impairments to participate in power mobility training. Case Description: The participant was an 18 year-old female with spastic quadriplegic cerebral palsy, Gross Motor Function Classification Level V. The examination included the Power Mobility Screen and the Caregiver Priorities & Child Health Index of Life with Disabilities (CPCHILD). Switches on the participant's headrest provided control of the Trainer. Intervention consisted of power mobility training in an engaging environment that was set-up to focus on specific power mobility skills. Results: Scores on the Power Mobility Screen and the CPCHILD were higher after intervention. Discussion: The outcomes of this case report appear to support the use of the Trainer, which allowed the participant to practice power mobility skills and participate in self-exploration of her environment. The authors describe an intervention program using a power mobility-training device for a child with severe cerebral palsy. They report positive outcomes on the Power Mobility Screen instrument and a quality of life measure.