Wheelchair Assessment and Mobility Support for an Adult

Brian is a 58-year-old individual who was referred for occupational therapy due to progressive mobility challenges impacting his independence in the home and community. He reported increasing fatigue, reduced walking tolerance, and difficulty navigating longer distances safely.

Service

Occupational Therapy

Setting

In-home + Clinic

Approach

Wheelchair and mobility assessment

Background

Brian is a 58-year-old individual who was referred for occupational therapy due to progressive mobility challenges impacting his independence in the home and community. He reported increasing fatigue, reduced walking tolerance, and difficulty navigating longer distances safely.

Brian expressed concerns about maintaining his independence with daily activities such as grocery shopping, attending medical appointments, and participating in community outings. He also reported that fatigue and reduced endurance were limiting his ability to fully engage in meaningful activities.

His goal was to improve mobility, reduce fatigue, and maintain independence in daily life.

Assessment

An occupational therapist completed a comprehensive wheelchair and mobility assessment, which included:

What the assessment included

Review of medical history and current functional mobility status
Assessment of transfers, balance, and endurance
Evaluation of home and community accessibility needs
Trial of mobility devices and seating options
Analysis of pressure management, posture, and positioning requirements
Discussion of lifestyle goals and daily activity demands

What We learned

The assessment identified reduced lower body endurance, increased fatigue with prolonged mobility, and difficulty safely navigating longer community distances. It was determined that a wheelchair would support energy conservation, safety, and increased participation in meaningful activities.

Intervention Plan

A personalized wheelchair prescription and mobility support plan was developed to match Brian’s functional needs and lifestyle goals.
Wheelchair Selection and Prescription
  • Selection of an appropriate wheelchair type based on strength, endurance, and lifestyle needs
  • Ensuring optimal fit for comfort, propulsion efficiency, and safety
  • Considering transportability and ease of use in community settings
Seating and Positioning
  • Assessment of posture and spinal alignment needs
  • Implementation of appropriate seating supports for comfort and pressure management
  • Ensuring proper alignment to reduce fatigue and risk of discomfort
Mobility Training
  • Training in safe propulsion techniques and energy conservation strategies
  • Education on navigating indoor and outdoor environments safely
  • Practicing transfers and positioning for daily activities
Home and Community Access
  • Identifying barriers within the home environment
  • Recommending modifications to improve accessibility and safety
  • Supporting access to community spaces and essential services
Energy Conservation Strategies
  • Teaching pacing techniques to reduce fatigue
  • Balancing wheelchair use with walking where appropriate
  • Planning activities to maximize participation while minimizing exhaustion

We offer flexible support options to meet you and your family's individual needs

Results

Following wheelchair assessment and implementation:
Brian experienced improved independence in community mobility
Fatigue levels during daily activities decreased significantly
He was able to attend appointments and community activities more consistently
Safety and confidence in mobility increased
Participation in meaningful activities improved
Overall quality of life and independence were enhanced
Brian reported that having appropriate mobility support allowed him to “get back out into the community” and participate in activities he had previously been limiting due to fatigue.

Conclusion

Wheelchair assessments play a vital role in supporting individuals with mobility challenges by promoting independence, safety, and participation in daily life. Occupational therapy ensures that mobility solutions are individualized, functional, and aligned with each person’s lifestyle and goals.

Through comprehensive assessment and tailored intervention, individuals can maintain or regain meaningful participation in home, work, and community activities.

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