Wheelchairs for children should not be considered mere modes of transport. For many kids with disabilities, their chairs are a big part of their world. Any mobility device should be customized to the individual user's needs to be used most effectively. The right wheelchair accessories offer therapeutic benefits and practical advantages and improve a child's independence and feeling of self-worth.
Types
Positional accessories include padding and straps designed to help a child with motor impairments sit up straight. Other straps are for safety, including protecting the child from falling out of the chair when hitting a bump. Functional wheelchair accessories include storage bags or trays so the child can color or play with toys. Seat cushions make pediatric wheelchairs more comfortable, an important consideration for children who are seldom out of their chairs. Even accessories such as cup holders and umbrellas specially designed to attach onto wheelchairs are available.
Considerations
The wheelchair accessories you choose will depend largely on what the child's abilities are and how much time is spent in the chair. Some children are able to walk short distances and sit in a regular chair, needing a wheelchair only for long-distance transfers, so they will not need many accessories. Wheelchairs for children who are more seriously disabled will require more accessories because the child spends more time in the chair.
Expert Insight
The child's physical and occupational therapists should always be included when shopping for wheelchair accessories. Their professional advice will help you choose the right accessories for your child's needs. This is especially important for severely disabled children because inadequate support may lead to scoliosis and other complications, but too much support prevents the child from building trunk strength. Ask for input from any other specialists such as speech or vision therapists who treat your child, as well as teachers and school paraprofessionals.
Price vs. Quality
Equipment for pediatric wheelchairs is often quite expensive, and not all items are covered by either private insurance or public insurance such as Social Security and Medicaid. However, parents need to be careful about inexpensive accessories. Items for children with disabilities are often of higher quality than items for typical kids, and that is part of the reason for the higher prices. Cheaper versions may not provide the functionality the child needs.
Benefits
The benefits of pediatric wheelchair accessories may seem obvious, such as the safety provided by using a butterfly chest harness. However, there are often other advantages as well. Many accessories improve the child's independence, which is a gain for both the caregivers and the child. Giving disabled children more control over their environments improves their self-esteem and development, and taking the burden off caregivers allows them to focus their energies on other assistive tasks.
