Mobility Status and Adaptive Equipment
If your loved one has had a change in their mobility status and requires new adaptive equipment such as a walker or wheelchair, the prescribing physiotherapist for this service is Sarah Emery. She is a Registered Physiotherapist who has extensive knowledge on seating and mobility needs. She is certified in performing wheelchair assessments and works with the Assistive Devices Program (ADP) to gain access to government funding for the equipment that your loved one may need.
Staff members within the home typically send a referral to the physiotherapy team for wheelchair/seating assessments when they notice a change in your loved one’s positioning, comfort, mobility, etc., and they believe customized seating would be of benefit. These referrals are addressed by Sarah.
You will receive a phone call from her to gain your consent for an assessment to be completed, and to have a conversation about the equipment your loved one may require, vendor choices, and costs. In most cases, she will be calling from outside of Providence Manor as she is only on site Fridays from 12:30pm-4:30pm. All communication regarding this process will be through Sarah and the vendor of choice.
Wheelchairs, walkers and assistive devices
All wheelchairs and walkers must be included in our home-wide inventory. Items are labeled and a computerized inventory maintained. The inventory is needed to help us provide routine maintenance and cleaning.
Power wheelchairs and scooters
Power wheelchairs can add to an individual’s quality of life by facilitating freedom of movement, and enhancing a sense of independence. Due to space limitations, motorized scooters are not permitted in the Home. Residents are expected to drive
their power wheelchairs in a safe manner at all times. On-going concerns with safe operation could result in the inability to continue with the use of a power chair and a manual chair may be substituted. A member of the health care team will conduct driving tests to ensure the safety of the resident operating the wheelchair.
