Beginning power mobility: parent and therapist perspectives

Abstract

Purpose To explore parent and therapist experiences of early power mobility following participation in a Power Mobility Day – a 60–90 min play-based session where children with mobility limitations (<6 years of age) experienced four different early power mobility devices. Method Participants were purposefully selected from parents and therapists who took part in Power Mobility Days as part of a larger cross-sectional study. One semi-structured interview with each participant was conducted via telephone. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed, and analyzed using a content analysis approach. Results Of 35 adults approached, 11 parents and 11 occupational or physical therapists completed interviews averaging 20 min (range 10–45 min), one week to three months after the session. Participants were parents or therapists of children aged 12 to 48 months of age with a variety of neuromotor diagnoses from different areas of the province. The overarching theme Empowering Children and Families to Explore was developed from themes: Earlier Experiences; A Novel Introduction; and Moving Forward. Conclusion Power Mobility Days provided a welcoming and inclusive child- and family-led introduction to power mobility. This novel approach may help change both therapists’ and families’ perception of child potential and perspectives on power mobility as an intervention. IMPLICATIONS FOR REHABILITATION: Exploratory sessions can provide a novel introduction to power mobility interventions. Child enjoyment has a reciprocal impact on family engagement with early power mobility. Experiential child- and family-led learning can increase awareness of power mobility options and possibilities.