How can Powered Mobility Improve a Child’s Social Participation and Play?
Powered mobility transforms a child’s role from a passive observer to an active participant in their daily life. By providing Greater Independence,…
View AnswerNo, using a powered wheelchair does not prevent a child from learning to walk. In fact, research indicates that early powered mobility does not interfere with the development of motor skills. Studies of toddlers with diagnoses such as cerebral palsy and spina bifida show that they can learn to control a joystick quickly without these devices replacing traditional movement activities or muscle exercise.
We have found that incorporating powered mobility supports a child’s development in several ways:
- Muscle Activation: Research involving EMG studies shows that children using powered mobility can actually see an increase in quadriceps muscle activation over time, indicating active neuromuscular development.
- Activity Levels: Rather than replacing movement, powered mobility often encourages frequent, short bursts of exploratory activity that help build coordination and spatial awareness.
- Developmental Readiness: Devices like the Explorer Mini are specifically FDA-cleared for children as young as 12-36 months to help them move freely while they continue to work toward taking steps independently.
Decisions regarding walking goals and the timing of a device should always be made in coordination with your child’s therapy team. We’re here to help families in Spring Valley, NY, navigate these choices as part of a broader motor development plan.
Results may vary. Please consult your treating healthcare professional for medical necessity.
Related FAQs
-
What Insurances do Partners in Pediatrics and Medequipped Take?
Read More »: What Insurances do Partners in Pediatrics and Medequipped Take?MedEquipped provides comprehensive insurance navigation for pediatric power wheelchairs and children’s mobility devices, accepting a wide range of plans similar to those accepted by providers like Partners in Pediatrics. Their coverage acceptance includes: Medicaid: Fully accepted in New York, Georgia,…
-
What Insurances do Partners in Pediatrics Take?
Read More »: What Insurances do Partners in Pediatrics Take?Based on the provided content, providers like Partners in Pediatrics and MedEquipped accept a variety of insurance options to support families in obtaining mobility devices. Specifically, the following types of insurance are accepted: Medicaid: Accepted in states such as New…
-
What is the Average Cost of a Stair Chair Lift?
Read More »: What is the Average Cost of a Stair Chair Lift?The cost of a stair chair lift typically ranges from $3,000 to $15,000, depending on the type of staircase and required features. The total price is largely influenced by whether the staircase is straight or curved: Straight stair lifts: These…
-
Will Medicare Pay for a Stair Lift Chair?
Read More »: Will Medicare Pay for a Stair Lift Chair?Standard Medicare generally does not pay for stair lift chairs because they are categorized as home modifications rather than durable medical equipment. However, there are some potential exceptions and alternative options: Medicare Advantage and Supplements: While traditional Medicare excludes coverage,…
-
Where can I Find Wheelchair Seating Systems in the Us?
Read More »: Where can I Find Wheelchair Seating Systems in the Us?In the United States, specialized wheelchair seating systems are available through MedEquipped, which provides services across several states including New York, Georgia, and Michigan. They offer personalized consultations and expert-led power mobility evaluations conducted by certified Assistive Technology Professionals (ATPs)…
