Getting Around/Mobility
For children who have difficult getting around, there are a number of items that may be available for them to use. Here we have detailed the most common forms of mobility aid. In all cases it is important to discuss the need and benefits with a trained physiotherapist and/or occupational therapist
Wheelchairs and Buggies
Choosing the right wheelchair/buggy for your child is important. Wheelchair services are trained to ensure the correct support, height and type are provided. You may be referred to Wheelchair services by your Occupational Therapist if your child requires this kind of support. They will have demonstration models of different types of wheelchairs or special needs buggies dependant on your district. In addition, as the chairs are on loan, they are repaired or replaced free of charge. If you decide to invest in an alternative wheelchair or secondary chair, you can choose to accept a voucher towards the cost. Examples of wheelchairs and buggies:
Alvema Max Pushchair
Manual wheelchair - A Poplar - made by Invacare
Maclaren Major Buggy often issued by Wheelchair services
An example of a power chair with Jay Back
A Kimba Pushchair often issued by Wheelchair Services
Walkers
Dependant on your childs condition and mobility, the use of a walker (also called a frame or gait trainer) may be recommended for either full or part time use. The physiotherapist will usually arrange this and ensure the correct type is ordered. There are many different types of walker and below you can find a couple of examples of commonly issued ones which two of our members children use.
This is a Kaye Walker which provides support from the back and sides, allowing them to stand and position themselves correctly whilst walking.
A David Hart Walker provides more support using bracing techniques. It allows more severely disabled children to learn to stand and walk using hands-free mobility.
Provision of any of the above walkers by your local health authority is subject to their policies and guidelines. We would recommend the input from a physiotherapist before purchasing a walker or wheelchair.
There are also companies that supply walkers privately and will liase with your physiotherapist to ensure the correct walker is issued. Below are some links to companies you may find useful
Trikes
Having your own bike to ride is most childrens dream and it doesn't need to be different if your child is disabled or has special needs. In the UK, there are companies that specialise in tricycles for the disabled and will often visit you in your home and ensure the trike has the correct supports and features. As the purchase of these trikes is usually required privately, why not join Special Kids in the UK to get details on how to fundraise for your child or ask our members for information.
This is a Theraplay TMX Tricycle.
For more links for Trike suppliers, please click here
