What’s New In Technological Advances For Power Chairs

On 13 May, we hosted a very informative session for therapists at Power Mobility – Technological Advances in Complex Rehab Power Chairs. This course was conducted by Quantum Rehab’s Director of Clinical Education, Jay Doherty, who was visiting Australia from the US to present at ATSA.

At this session, Jay discussed the latest technology and how it helps to provide a higher level of independence to powerchair users – from completely controlling the wheelchair itself, to controlling the environment outside the wheelchair.

Joining Jay at this session was Patrick Dillon, Ambassador for Quantum Rehab, who lives in Brisbane. Patrick sustained a spinal cord injury six years ago while swinging off a rope into a shallow river, which left him a quadriplegic. Determined to live life to the fullest, Patrick constantly pursued technological advances to assist him in every day life. Through a partnership with Quantum Rehab and Power Mobility, Patrick now uses the Edge 3, the latest power drive wheelchair from Quantum. It features Q-Logic 3 technology and all-new suspension and motor package.

Extra modifications to make life easier

We also showcased a number of fantastic customisations and modifications made to Patrick’s chair by Power Mobility’s Technical Director, Darren Schuler, including:

• a back cane mounted swing away power boom for his chin control
• a pezo switch to enable Patrick to operate the boom independently
• a heavy duty proximity switch to help him access different power functions and drive controls on the chair
• a Bluetooth relay to enable Patrick to open doors throughout his home and any other Bluetooth accessible switch he wants to use
• programming the EDU (enhanced display unit) so he can operate any device in his home that uses a remote, eg. TV, fans, pool lights, air conditioner, etc.

Watch the video & download the presentation now!

During the session, Patrick explained to therapists how these modifications and the Q-Logic 3 technology on his new Edge 3 chair have boosted his independence. Therapists also had the opportunity to test-drive the chairs for themselves and talk to Patrick and Jay firsthand about the technology and how to use it.

If you weren’t able to attend the session but would like to find out more, you can watch our video showing Patrick at home explaining how to use this new technology. You can also download Jay Doherty’s presentation, Technological Advances in Complex Rehab Power Chairs.

Trust the experts at Power Mobility

An NDIS Registered Provider with over 40 years experience, Power Mobility provides the perfect combination of quality mobility products, personal service and expert advice. Widely regarded as the power chair specialists, Power Mobility also offers a wide selection of scooters, lift chairs, manual wheelchairs and much more. So give our friendly team a call on (07) 2102 7563 or drop into our showroom in Geebung.