This time last year we alerted members to a project being undertaken in Victoria to help raise awareness about safety issues associated with the use of motorised mobility devices and develop resources to support consumers, carers and health professionals.
The development work is now complete, and we are pleased to announce the availability of an extensive suite of practical information resources that will be valuable in guiding mobility device users and their families.
Accessible via the VicRoads website, the resources include an updated ‘Guide to choosing and using mobility scooters and powered wheelchairs’ which steps readers through:
- Deciding whether a motorised mobility is right for them
- Choosing a device to best suit their needs
- Using the device effectively and safely
- Accessing public transport
- Knowing where to go to get more information and assistance
These topics are also covered individually in a series of fact sheets, including fact sheets dedicated to explaining the importance of formal user assessment, education, training and regular monitoring, and the role of occupational therapists and GPs.
Particular value lies in the Checklists that feature in the main resource and fact sheets. These can help potential and existing users to step through the decision-making process and reflect on their needs and goals for mobility. The checklists are equally valuable for carers and family members.
ATSA is proud to have contributed to this work and recommends the resources to all our members to support their customer conversations, informed consumer decisions and our common goals of optimising mobility and safety.
- Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, McKenna K, Tovel A and Pointer S (2019). Mobility scooter-related injuries and deaths. Injury research and statistics series no. 121. Canberra, AIHW Available from: https://www.aihw.gov.au/getmedia/61abe614-d7b8-41c3-ba9a-0215f77a7c89/aihw-injcat-201.pdf