Mobility Skills Research Articles

Evaluating a Therapeutic Powered Mobility Camp for Children with Severe Cerebral Palsy.

Background. Children and youth with severe cerebral palsy (CP) have limited independent mobility, which affects opportunities for overall development. Purpose. To examine the effectiveness of Power Fun, a therapeutic powered mobility summer camp. Methods. A quasi-experimental, repeated-measure design was used, with participants acting as their own control. Twenty-four participants with severe CP (aged 7–20 years) attended Power Fun for three weeks, five days/week. Assessments of powered mobility skills and functional mobility goals were conducted three weeks before the camp (T1), at baseline (T2), postintervention (T3), and at three-week follow-up (T4). Findings. An analysis of variance results indicated significant improvements in powered mobility skills (F(1,22) = 56.61, p < 0.001, η2p = 0.74) and functional mobility goals (F(1,58) = 80.17, p < 0.001, η2p = 0.74), with 70% of goals achieved postintervention. A descriptive analysis revealed three learning profiles. Implications. This study provides initial evidence supporting the effectiveness of Power Fun as an intervention promoting powered mobility for children with severe CP, across a range of abilities.

Effect of adapted motorized ride-on toy use on developmental skills, quality of life, and driving competency in nonambulatory children age 9–60 months

ABSTRACT Adapted motorized ride-on toys (AMTs) provide a feasible option for independent mobility in children with physical limitations. This study explores implications of AMT use on developmental domains and participation in daily activities. It also pilots the Power Mobility Skills Checklist (PMSC) for assessment of AMT operation competency. Nine nonambulatory children, ages 10–35 months, completed a 16-week AMT intervention. The Battelle Developmental Inventory-2 (BDI-2) and Assessment for Life Habits for Children (Life-H) were completed pre- and poststudy to evaluate developmental skills and participation in daily activities. The PMSC was completed at 2-week intervals to assess AMT driving ability. PMSC scores improved significantly for all participants across the intervention. BDI-2 developmental quotients demonstrated clinically significant gains in motor, cognitive, adaptive, communication, and personal-social domains, which varied between participants. Life-H changes were not significant. Improvements in PMSC change scores were associated with more total AMT sessions and increased BDI-2 gains. The PMSC may be effective for obtaining quantitative data on AMT operation and sensitive for assessing change in driving competency.

Early Intervention Program Through Bibliotherapy Approach For Reducing Fear In Orientation And Mobility Of Children With Visual Impairment

Orientation and mobility skills are special skills that must be mastered by children with visual impairment, thus an orientation and mobility intervention program is important to develop. Fear or anxiety in children with visual impairment related to orientation and mobility can be caused by fear from within the children or from the environment. Personality, motivation, psychosocial factor, and family and community attitudes all contribute to one's reaction to mobility activities independently. This research aims to reduce the fear of children with visual impairment in performing orientation and mobility activities by implementing an intervention program through bibliotherapy technique. This research is a case study research with a qualitative approach. Bibliotherapy was carried out on two young children with visual impairment. The results of the program implementation show that children's fear or anxiety could be reduced in both cases in this research as seen by autonomous moves of the two children from the mother and caregiver and began to learn to trace the walls of the room.

Teachers Perceptions of Google Classroom: Revealing Urgency for Teacher Professional Learning

As the use of educational technology is at the forefront of today’s educational revolution, it is imperative that educators are employing online learning environments such as Google Classroom to enhance 21st century pedagogy and student learning. Through this mixed method research study, it has been concluded that using Google Classroom will assist educators in creating learning environments which boast organization, accessibility, mobility, and 21st century learning skills. This research reveals there continues to be gaps between the possibilities of eLearning and the training of teachers to use it and develop their teaching practices within a technological mainstream that moves beyond positivism about its value. The researcher recommends that teachers receive immediate and sustained professional learning regarding the use of Google Classroom. This learning should focus on the pedagogical side of technology integration in order to enhance 21st century learning.

Functional development in children with cerebral palsy in Uganda: population-based longitudinal cohort study.

To follow the functional development of a population-based cohort of children with cerebral palsy (CP) in rural Uganda and compare their development with the developmental trajectories of children from high-income countries (HIC). Eighty-one children (33 females, 48 males) aged 2 to 17 years (mean 8y 6mo, SD 4y 6mo) with CP were initially assessed in 2015 and then 4 years later using the 66-item Gross Motor Function Measure (GMFM-66), Pediatric Evaluation of Disability Inventory, Ugandan version (PEDI-UG), and functional classification systems. We calculated actual and reference scores (level of deviation from the developmental trajectories in HIC). A Wilcoxon signed-rank test was used for statistical analyses. Children and young people with CP in Uganda exhibited no differences in scores between the first and second assessments for the GMFM-66 and PEDI-UG mobility skills, whereas they exhibited increased PEDI-UG social function (p<0.001) and self-care skills scores (p<0.001). Reference scores were more negative at the second assessment than at the first for the GMFM-66 (p=0.002) and PEDI-UG mobility (p=0.036) but not for PEDI-UG self-care. The increased difference in reference scores over the 4 years was primarily driven by younger children (2-5y) and children with milder impairments. The increased difference in reference scores between assessments suggests that children with CP in Uganda develop motor skills at a slower rate than peers in HIC. Limited access to health care and rehabilitation likely contributed to the lower scores and slower rate of development.

Power Fun: A Therapeutic Powered Mobility Summer Camp for Children and Youth With Severe Cerebral Palsy

Abstract Date Presented Accepted for AOTA INSPIRE 2021 but unable to be presented due to online event limitations. Power Fun, a therapeutic powered mobility summer camp, provides a pragmatic solution to promote mobility for children with severe cerebral palsy. This session presents the Power Fun protocol and the results of a repeated-measures mixed-methods validation study (N = 24). These showed significant improvement in powered mobility skills, attainment of most functional goals, and social change after participation, making it an evidence-based intervention for children with severe disabilities. Primary Author and Speaker: Lori Rosenberg Additional Authors and Speakers: Yafit Gilboa Contributing Authors: Adina Maeir

RELEVANCE OF USING LOCOMOTOR MOVEMENT SKILLS IN PREPARING PUPILS FOR REAL LIFE

The spectacular evolution of communications systems, accessibility, has increased in the last year due to the restrictions caused by pandemic. We see the tendency of young people to give up any physical activity that requires physical exertion. This study is based on the answers of the 75 subjects, teachers of physical education, 35 students and master students from the last years of study, who were previously informed on the subject around which the questionnaire was addressed. The questions were formulated together with a group of Methodist teachers, physical education teachers. We found that 54.3% of school principals agree to the placement of a center to develop school mobility skills, and 22.2% agree with it only after the vote in the school board. For the opportunity to collaborate with military school teachers in organizing the exercise skills course, 96% of physical education teachers and school leaders responded favorably. We consider that a constructive proposal is the creation of new opportunities for collaboration between schools and especially high schools, with military schools, which can realize partnerships generating value and benefits for students.

Improvements in clinical signs of Parkinson\u2019s disease using photobiomodulation: a prospective proof-of-concept study

BackgroundParkinson’s disease (PD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disease with no cure and few treatment options. Its incidence is increasing due to aging populations, longer disease duration and potentially as a COVID-19 sequela. Photobiomodulation (PBM) has been successfully used in animal models to reduce the signs of PD and to protect dopaminergic neurons.ObjectiveTo assess the effectiveness of PBM to mitigate clinical signs of PD in a prospective proof-of-concept study, using a combination of transcranial and remote treatment, in order to inform on best practice for a larger randomized placebo-controlled trial (RCT).MethodsTwelve participants with idiopathic PD were recruited. Six were randomly chosen to begin 12 weeks of transcranial, intranasal, neck and abdominal PBM. The remaining 6 were waitlisted for 14 weeks before commencing the same treatment. After the 12-week treatment period, all participants were supplied with PBM devices to continue home treatment. Participants were assessed for mobility, fine motor skills, balance and cognition before treatment began, after 4 weeks of treatment, after 12 weeks of treatment and the end of the home treatment period. A Wilcoxon Signed Ranks test was used to assess treatment effectiveness at a significance level of 5%.ResultsMeasures of mobility, cognition, dynamic balance and fine motor skill were significantly improved (p < 0.05) with PBM treatment for 12 weeks and up to one year. Many individual improvements were above the minimal clinically important difference, the threshold judged to be meaningful for participants. Individual improvements varied but many continued for up to one year with sustained home treatment. There was a demonstrable Hawthorne Effect that was below the treatment effect. No side effects of the treatment were observed.ConclusionsPBM was shown to be a safe and potentially effective treatment for a range of clinical signs and symptoms of PD. Improvements were maintained for as long as treatment continued, for up to one year in a neurodegenerative disease where decline is typically expected. Home treatment of PD by the person themselves or with the help of a carer might be an effective therapy option. The results of this study indicate that a large RCT is warranted.Trial registrationAustralian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry, registration number: ACTRN12618000038291p, registered on 12/01/2018.

Measurement properties of the L Test with fast walking speed in patients after lower limb amputation in initial prosthetic training phase

The L Test is a clinical mobility test used in patients after lower limb amputation. To assess dynamic balance, it should be performed with fast walking speed. Its measurement properties in the initial prosthetic training phase are not known yet. The objective of the study was to establish intra- and interrater reliability, concurrent and discriminant validity, minimal detectable change, effect size between the rehabilitation time points and ceiling effect of the L Test with fast walking speed in patients after lower limb amputation in initial prosthetic training phase. The study included 36 inpatients aged 19-86 years who were provided with a prosthesis for the first time. They were assessed repeatedly with the L Test, Ten-meter Walk Test and 6-min Walk Test. The intra- (ICC3, k = 0.94) and interrater reliability (ICC2, k = 0.96) of the L Test were excellent. Correlations with the walking tests were very good (r = 0.75-0.86). Regression analysis with respect to the level of lower limb amputation showed a linear relationship with other variables (R2 = 0.55). Influences of age, cause of lower limb amputation and walking aid were statistically significant. The L Test was responsive to change after two weeks of prosthetic training (Cohen's d = 1.21). No ceiling effect was identified. The L Test with fast walking speed is a feasible, reliable, valid, and responsive measure of basic mobility skills in patients after lower limb amputation in the initial prosthetic training phase.

Physical Therapy Interventions in a Patient with Nontraumatic Incomplete Spinal Cord Injury Secondary to Metastatic Lung Cancer: A Case Report

ABSTRACT Background and Introduction: Individuals with dual cancer and spinal cord injury diagnoses present unique challenges to rehabilitation teams. This case report describes the modification of a physical therapy plan of care for an individual with incomplete spinal cord injury (iSCI) resulting from metastatic lung cancer who underwent adjunctive cancer treatment. Case Description: A 61-year-woman with small cell lung cancer and T5 iSCI presenting to inpatient rehabilitation (IPR) to address function limitations from iSCI following metastatic epidural tumor resection. Intervention: Interventions focused on task-specific training of mobility skills with modifications made to address cancer-related fatigue, promote energy conservation, and prioritize functional skills for home discharge given anticipated disease progression. Outcomes: IPR length of stay was 31 days. Functional Independence Measure (FIM) total score increased from 52/133 at admissions to 106/133 at discharge. Spinal Cord Independence Measure – III (SCIM-III) total score increased from 31/100 to 55/100. Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy-Fatigue Subscale score increased from 21/52 to 41/52 reflecting reduced fatigue level compared to admission. These gains facilitated discharge home with family support. Conclusion: Physical therapy plan of care required consideration of dual diagnosis, cancer-related fatigue, and patient-centered goals. Participation in IPR positively affected quality of life and ability to return home with family.

One World Project's Wheelchair Skills Training Camp in Morocco - effects of a community peer-based programme

Purpose The aim of this study was to assess wheelchair skills of persons with physical disabilities who attended the first Wheelchair Skills and Empowerment Camp in Morocco and their satisfaction with manual wheelchairs provided for the camp activities. Materials and methods 19 persons (13 male and 6 female) with physical disabilities took part in the project. The average time since injury or illness was 24 years. To assess wheelchair skills/user satisfaction, the researchers used the Queensland Evaluation of Wheelchair Skills test and the Quebec User Evaluation of Satisfaction with assistive Technology. Results Study participants improved their overall wheelchair mobility skills (p = 0.002; d = 0.20), especially their ability to ascend and descend a ramp (p = 0.012; d = 0.67). The participants reported significantly greater satisfaction with the new provided wheelchairs in comparison to their own wheelchairs in regard to five satisfaction items; i.e., ease in adjusting (p = 0.011; d = 0.96), safety and security (p = 0.014; d = 0.97), durability (p = 0.037; d = 0.81), ease to use (p = 0.045; d = 0.87), and comfort (p = 0.006; d = 1.03). Conclusions Findings of this study indicate that persons with physical disabilities in Morocco need structured training in wheelchair skills and better-quality wheelchairs. The study also confirmed that community peer-based programmes in low-resource countries can play a significant role in rehabilitation of persons with physical disabilities, even many years after their injury or illness. IMPLICATIONS FOR REHABILITATION The One World project educated local persons with disabilities and government officials about the need for buying appropriate wheelchairs and for providing them according to the World Health Organization guidelines. 19 persons who use wheelchairs participated in 6-days of wheelchair skills training sessions, which were led by three peer mentors who use a wheelchair: two with spinal cord injury, and one with polio complications. The 19 participants, who had lived with their disabilities on average for 24 years, advanced their general wheelchair mobility skills, which was assessed through a practical test. The results confirmed that community peer-based programmes in low-resource countries are important for improving wheelchair skills not only when beginning rehabilitation but even after individuals live many years with a disability.

Effects of a powered mobility summer camp as perceived by school staff: a qualitative study

Purpose Powered mobility has a positive effect on social skills, self-esteem and overall development of children with motor impairments, but almost all previous studies were conducted with pre-school children. The aim of this study was to explore change beyond mobility following a therapeutic powered mobility summer camp for school-aged children and adolescents with severe cerebral palsy, as perceived by school staff. Materials and methods The participants in the therapeutic camp, which ran for 3 weeks, 5 days a week, three times over the summers 2018–2019, were children ages 7–19 (median age 11) with severe cerebral palsy who needed assistance in mobility and had limited hand function. Following the intervention, 19 semi-structured audio-recorded interviews were conducted with school staff, then transcribed and thematically analyzed using an inductive qualitative descriptive design with a phenomenological theoretical framework. Results Four overarching themes were identified: (1) “Every step you take: mastering new, sometimes unexpected, skills”, (2) “Break on through to the other side: changes in behaviour”, (3) “Make new friends (but keep the old): Boosting social behaviour” and (4) “I’m a believer: The journey through self-efficacy to empowerment”. Conclusions The interviews showed the immediate positive influence of powered mobility for children who previously did not have independent mobility, following an intensive intervention. Changes in initiative, empowerment, social relationships and behaviour highlight the importance of self-generated mobility, regardless of whether independence was achieved. School-aged children with severe cerebral palsy seem to benefit from an intensive powered mobility intervention in areas other than mobility skills themselves. IMPLICATIONS FOR REHABILITATION Powered mobility intervention seems to encourage activity and initiation among children and youth with severe CP. This research adds to the understanding of the effect powered mobility can have on social interaction and communication. Powered mobility might be a means to allow development, in addition to being an important end.

The effects of wheelchair mobility skills and exercise training on physical activity, fitness, skills and confidence in youth using a manual wheelchair

Purpose To evaluate the effects of a combination of wheelchair mobility skills (WMS) training and exercise training on physical activity (PA), WMS, confidence in wheelchair mobility, and physical fitness. Methods Youth using a manual wheelchair (n = 60) participated in this practice-based intervention, with a waiting list period (16 weeks), exercise training (8 weeks), WMS training (8 weeks), and follow-up (16 weeks). Repeated measures included: PA (Activ8), WMS (Utrecht Pediatric Wheelchair Mobility Skills Test), confidence in wheelchair mobility (Wheelchair Mobility Confidence Scale), and physical fitness (cardiorespiratory fitness, (an)aerobic performance) and were analysed per outcome parameter using a multilevel model analyses. Differences between the waiting list and training period were determined with an unpaired sample t-test. Results Multilevel model analysis showed significant positive effects for PA (p = 0.01), WMS (p < 0.001), confidence in wheelchair mobility (p < 0.001), aerobic (p < 0.001), and anaerobic performance (p < 0.001). Unpaired sample t-tests underscored these effects for PA (p < 0.01) and WMS (p < 0.001). There were no effects on cardiorespiratory fitness. The order of training (exercise before WMS) had a significant effect on confidence in wheelchair mobility. Conclusions A combination of exercise and WMS training appears to have significant positive long-term effects on PA, WMS, confidence in wheelchair mobility, and (an)aerobic performance in youth using a manual wheelchair. Implications for rehabilitation Exercise training and wheelchair mobility skills (WMS) training can lead to a sustained improvement in physical activity (PA) in youth using a manual wheelchair. These combined trainings can also lead to a sustained increase in WMS, confidence in wheelchair mobility, and (an)aerobic performance. More attention is needed in clinical practice and in research towards improving PA in youth using a manual wheelchair.

The Association Between Physical Performance and Health-Related Quality of Life Based on the EQ-5D-3L Questionnaire in Patients With Chagas Disease

ObjectivesChagas disease (CD) is a chronic disease to millions worldwide, and many patients develop heart disease. In addition, they are part of an aging population. These characteristics can be associated with a reduction in physical performance and health-related quality of life (HRQoL). This study evaluated HRQoL, and the relationship between physical performance and HRQoL in patients with chronic CD. MethodsWe used the 3-level version of EQ-5D-3L, with the visual analog scale (VAS). Physical performance was measured with 30-s chair-stand test (30sCST) and timed up and go test (TUGT). ResultsSixty-three patients were evaluated. The majority were women (68.2%) aged 67.7 ± 9.7 years. Overall EQ-5D-3L utility index was 0.65 ± 0.28, and VAS score was 68.4 ± 25.1. Most patients with intermediate and high performance in 30sCST referred no problems in the domains “mobility,” “usual activities,” and “pain/feeling ill” (P < .001, P = .01, and P = .025, respectively). In a similar way, most patients with intermediate and high performance in TUGT referred no problems in “mobility” (P < .0001) and “usual activities” (P = .001). Higher performance in both tests was associated with higher overall EQ-5D-3L utility and VAS scores. HRQoL measured by EQ-5D-3L was associated with physical status in a cohort of patients with chronic CD. The results underscore the contribution of physical performance, measured by 2 inexpensive and safe physical tests, to HRQoL in these patients. ConclusionStrategies aiming the improvement of HRQoL in patients with CD may focus on mobility skills and force. Future studies evaluating interventions in physical performance should be a priority in these patients.

Parkinson's disease and multicomponent aquatic exercise: Effects on motor aspects, functional mobility, muscle function and aquatic motor skills

ObjectiveAnalyze the effects of a multicomponent aquatic exercise program on motor aspects, functional mobility, muscle function and aquatic motor skills of people with PD. MethodsEighteen people with a PD diagnosis were assessed before and after a 12-week multicomponent aquatic exercise program, twice a week, with each session lasting 50 min. The terrestrial variables analyzed were motor aspects, through the Unified Parkinson Disease Rating Scale (UPDRS); functional mobility, through the Five Times Sit to Stand Test (FTSST); Peak Torque (PT) and Mean Power (MP) of hip, knee and ankle flexors and extensors, assessed using an isokinetic dynamometer. In water, aquatic motor skill levels were assessed by means of the Aquatic Functional Assessment Scale (AFAS). ResultsSignificant improvements were found after the intervention in the following outcomes: motor aspects (p = 0.038, Δ = 5–61); MP of knee flexors at 90°/s on the most affected side (p = 0.026, Δ = 5.14), MP of knee extensors at 90°/s on the most affected side (p = 0.008, Δ = 8.69), MP of knee extensors at 120°/s on the most affected side (p = 0.005, Δ = 8.35), and AFAS in the domain of specialized therapeutic exercises (p = 0.014, Δ = 1.28). ConclusionsThe completed multicomponent aquatic exercise program promoted changes in muscle function and terrestrial and aquatic functional outcomes in people with PD.

Aspekte mobil-flexibler Arbeit

Aspects of mobile and flexible working Professional mobility and flexibility are in themselves not a phenomenon that only emerged through the change in the world of work. It is characteristic of today that professional mobility is demanded by more and more companies and thus more employees are affected. It extends to other professions and is not only relevant for mobile occupations, such as professional drivers. In addition to the positive aspects of mobile work for employees (such as freedom, design options), there is also evidence of negative aspects. There is already some awareness of the health implications of various aspects of this form of work. However, there is little awareness of the health implications of the combined forms of mobile-flexible work (multimobility). Keywords: mobile and flexible working – mobility skills – change in the world of work – health-promoting working conditions

Designing Virtual Mobility as a transformative learning experience

Virtual student mobility and blended student mobility are becoming a key strategic policy area in European educational policy, with the aim of providing all students in Europe with the experience of mobility during their studies. This article looks at the extent to which these forms of mobility are designed to support transformative learning experiences, through the analysis of three virtual mobility cases in secondary education and three cases in higher education, using the Activity-Centred Analysis and Design (ACAD) Framework. The findings show that virtual mobility offers suitable learning environments where transformative learning can occur. However, structured reflection needs to be more elaborately designed for and supported to achieve its full potential. The article suggests that structured reflection is currently primarily focused on the development of intercultural skills and attitudes, but offers opportunities for other learner skills in virtual mobility (such as collaborative learning and networked learning). The article suggests some methods to do this.

Effect of Early Pre-Ambulatory Training on Functional Mobility Skill and Quality of Life In Low Paraplegia: A Research Protocol

Background: Paraplegia defined as near total dysfunction of the entire or part of the trunk and both lowerlimbs, caused by lesions of the thoracic or lumbar spinal cord or cauda equina. 43% of SCI results inparaplegia for thoracic, lumbar, or sacral lesion. The purpose of physical therapy management is to makethe patient relaxed and to achieve pre-ambulatory preparations, pre-ambulatory activities and ambulationactivities.Methods/Design: The study will be designed as experimental study. Total 60 participants will be selectedas per inclusion and exclusion criteria from AVBRH, Sawangi Meghe for the study. The duration of studywill 6 months with intervention. Physiotherapy intervention includes respiratory care, skin protection,range of motions and early reinforcement, early mobility activity, bed mobility skills, transfer activitiesand wheelchair skills. ASIA Impairment Scale, Functional Independent Measure, Wheelchair Skill Test,WHOQOL-BREF will be major outcome measure for the patient.Discussion: The study protocol details, in people with SCI the intervention strategy selected is largely basedon the amount of preserved motor function. Independence in functional skills in patients with completemotor SCI (ASIA A and B) is largely achieved through compensatory mechanisms and interventions aredeveloped accordingly. Expected outcome from the study will be the effects of early pre-ambulatory trainingon functional mobility skills and quality of life in low paraplegia.

Casa de apoio às crianças filhas de migrantes São Geraldo: um relato de experiência

Este relato tem o intuito de explanar sobre o trabalho realizado na casa de apoio ao longo de dois anos, afirmando a importância do projeto para as crianças participantes, para o autor e para futuros alunos da área de educação física que possam viver essa experiência. Abordando a questão comportamental, tendo em vista que este projeto foi uma vivência mais próxima de um contexto escolar para as crianças, além das situações sociais e culturais que, por serem filhas de migrantes, apresentam hábitos e costumes diferenciados. O Programa de desenvolvimento motor para crianças de famílias migrantes teve como objetivo geral aplicar o programa de desenvolvimento motor em crianças da primeira infância e seus objetivos específicos: (a) Melhorar os padrões motores nas habilidades de locomoção; (b) Melhorar os padrões motores nas habilidades de estabilização e (c) Melhorar os padrões motores nas habilidades de manipulação. Foi estimulado o desenvolvimento das habilidades motoras básicas das crianças de 2 a 4 anos de idade. Habilidades motoras que foram abordadas: (1) manipulação; (2) estabilização; e (3) locomoção, com frequência semanal de três sessões, com duração de até 50 minutos. Os materiais utilizados foram brinquedos e equipamentos pertencentes à casa de apoio, materiais recicláveis também foram aproveitados. O método observacional foi utilizado para averiguar o desenvolvimento das crianças no decorrer do projeto, tendo entre seus resultados obtidos, por meio das atividades, o desenvolvimento apresentado pelas crianças participantes do programa, desde as melhoras no quesito motor, melhoras no ganho de autonomia, nas atividades da vida diária e socialização.

ROLE OF ENTREPRENEUR’S COMPETENCE ON GROWTH OF SMALL AND MEDIUM ENTERPRISES

The study endeavored to determine the role of entrepreneur’s competence on growth of small and medium enterprises. The specific objectives of the study were to; establish entrepreneur’s competence small and medium enterprises in Bungoma County, examine the growth of small and medium enterprises in Bungoma county and to determine the relationship between entrepreneur’s competence and growth of small and medium enterprises. The study used a combination of descriptive, cross-sectional and correlation research designs and data was gathered using a self-administered questionnaire on 201 SMEs. Data was analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. The resource-based theory was used to guide this research. The study findings indicated that the grand mean for entrepreneur’s competence was low with a mean of 2.23 with a SD of 0.50. The implications of the findings is that SMEs operators in Bungoma county lack the prerequisite entrepreneurial skills and knowledge affecting their growth save for resource mobilization. It was also found that the grand mean for growth of SMEs was low with a mean of 1.96 and SD of 0.58. The implication of the findings was that SMEs were performing dismally affecting their graduation/transition to the next higher level. The study results also found that there was a significant relationship between entrepreneur’s competence and growth of SMEs with p. value 0.000. The study concluded that SMEs should embrace relevant competence skills to enable them operated growth oriented enterprises which can graduate to higher levels thereby contributing to improved social and economic life of the operators and the nation at large. The study recommended that owner managers of SMEs to attend trainings on resource mobilization and innovation so as to acquire adequate resource mobilization and innovation skills and differentiate themselves in the market place to grow their enterprises. The study further recommended that government to put in place entrepreneurship policy to nurture business startups through mentorship, motivation and attitude change as they walk through entrepreneurship journey.&#x0D; Keywords: Entrepreneur’s Competence, Growth, Small and Medium Enterprises