Why Mobility is Important
Why Mobility is Important
Why is mobility important? Mobility has many benefits ranging from physical to cognitive and social development. Gait training, ambulation, or mobility using an adaptive device (i.e. crutch, walker, and gait trainer) provides the opportunity for aerobic exercise. Exercise has been determined to be essential for cardiac and respiratory health as well as bone density and weight management. Mobility, that is self-directed by the child, whether through ambulation or with a powered wheelchair, is crucial to developing cognitive and social skills. A child that is provided the opportunity to explore their environment can interact with others by seeking out a communication partner, learn about their environment, and begin to learn how to navigate including safety and directional concepts. Mobility in a young child is a naturally occurring developmental step that greatly increases a child’s cognitive and social skills. During the exploration phase a typical child will learn about textures, be able to self-explore items that they are interested in, learn about and see more of their surroundings as well as “find” mom/dad or a caregiver to seek social interaction as desired. A child with special needs may not be able to reach this independent exploration phase that is critical to development without adaptive equipment. Research has shown that power mobility is just as effective as ambulation for maximizing this growth. That being said, not every child is appropriate to have their own power wheelchair due to extenuating reasons, but one can be used during therapy to assist with learning cause and effect and basic switch access. (RESNA Position Paper on Application of Power Wheelchairs for Pediatric Users, 2009), (Ginny Paleg, June 2008).
There are multiple ways for a child to explore mobility regardless of their diagnosis and level of physical involvement. Please consult the child’s therapists and physicians prior to beginning any mobility program. To view a more in depth article on adaptive walking equipment, please click on the following link.
If at any time, it becomes too confusing or difficult to navigate through the world of walking products or any other piece of equipment, please do not hesitate to contact us here at Tadpole Adaptive. We are always willing to provide unbiased and informed guidance.
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