Research Question1
| Citation |
Bottos, M., Bolcati, C., Sciuto, L., Ruggieri, C., & Feliciangeli, A. (2001).
Powered wheelchairs and independence in young children with tetraplegia. Developmental
Medicine and Child Neurology, 43, 769-777.
|
| Question | What is the effect of early power mobility on motor skills, IQ, psychological
reactions and independence? Does IQ or motor level predict which children can use
a power chair? |
| Description |
25 children with tetraplegic cerebral palsy aged between 3 and 8 years old were
assessed at the beginning and end of a 6 month baseline period using reliable measures
of IQ, motor level, psychological reactions and independence. They were then provided
with use of a powered wheelchair and reassessed after 6-8 months of use. |
| Results |
• Significant increase in independence, measured using the Canadian Occupational
Performance Measure
• 21/27 children achieved functional driving including 7/13 with IQ below
55
• IQ and motor level did not correlate with functional driving ability
• Time spent in the chair practicing did correlate with functional driving
ability
|
| Messages |
• Power mobility can increase independence for children with CP
• Children with moderate to severe intellectual impairment can learn to use a power
wheelchair
• Time and environmental support are very important when learning to use a power
chair
|
Last Updated:
Jan 13, 2011