🦽 Equipment & Technology

Wheelchairs

A wheelchair is not a last resort — it's a tool for freedom. The right wheelchair can dramatically improve a person's ability to participate in life.

• Manual wheelchairs — self-propelled or pushed by an attendant. Range from lightweight sport chairs to tilt-in-space models for postural support
• Powered wheelchairs — controlled via joystick, head switch, or other inputs. Enable independent mobility for people who cannot self-propel
• Custom-moulded seating — essential for posture, pressure relief, and comfort. A proper seating assessment by a specialist is critical
• Power-assist add-ons — can be added to manual chairs for extra push, especially useful on hills and longer distances

Walking Aids

• Posterior walkers — the most common type for children with CP, supporting from behind to encourage upright posture
• Anterior walkers — front-facing support
• Forearm crutches — provide support while allowing a more natural gait
• Walking sticks — for mild balance difficulties
• Gait trainers — supportive devices that help people practise walking who might not otherwise be able to

Orthotics

Orthotic devices support and align parts of the body:

• Ankle-foot orthoses (AFOs) — the most common orthotics in CP, supporting the ankle and foot during walking
• Knee-ankle-foot orthoses (KAFOs) — for additional knee support
• Hand and wrist splints — to improve hand positioning and function
• Spinal braces — for scoliosis management
• Hip braces — to help manage hip displacement

Seating & Positioning

Good positioning affects everything — comfort, breathing, eating, communication, and learning:

• Specialised car seats — for safe vehicle travel
• Standing frames — for weight-bearing, bone health, and social participation at standing height
• Supportive seating — corner seats, floor sitters, classroom chairs with adaptations
• Sleep systems — positioning supports for nighttime to prevent contractures and improve sleep

Communication Devices

Augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) devices give voice to people who cannot rely on speech alone:

• Low-tech AAC — picture boards, communication books, symbol charts
• High-tech AAC — tablet-based apps, dedicated speech-generating devices
• Eye-gaze technology — for people who control a device using eye movements
• Switch access — single or multiple switches that control devices through head, hand, or other movements

Smart Home Technology

Technology can increase independence at home:

• Voice-controlled assistants (Google Home, Alexa, Siri) for lights, TV, music, calls, and reminders
• Smart door locks and video doorbells
• Environmental control units that consolidate controls
• Automated blinds, heating, and cooling
• Robot vacuums and other automated appliances

Funding Equipment

In Australia, assistive technology can be funded through:

• NDIS — the primary funding source for most assistive technology for eligible participants
• State equipment programs — e.g., EnableNSW, SWEP (Vic), Medical Aids Subsidy Scheme (Qld)
• Private health insurance — may cover some items
• Charitable organisations — equipment loan schemes and grants
• Workplace modifications — funded through the Employment Assistance Fund (JobAccess)

An occupational therapist or physiotherapist can assess your needs, recommend the right equipment, and help you navigate funding applications.