Power wheelchairs that we typically use during student training sessions include both pediatric and adult sizes and mid-wheel drive as well as rear-wheel drive power chairs. Following are frequently used models:

• Invacare TDX 5 mid-wheel drive
• Invacare TDX SP mid-wheel drive
• Invacare Power Tiger rear-wheel drive; can convert to a manual base
• Invacare M 71 mid-wheel drive
• Quickie Z BOP mid-wheel drive; can convert to a manual base
• Pride Quantum 600 mid-wheel drive

Driver Controls

• ASL Head array electronic proximity switch
• Fiber optic switches
• Single switch scanner
• Joysticks
• Mechanical switches

During training sessions the therapist observes where the child has the most voluntary control that can be used to activate a switch—elbows, shoulders, feet, knees, head and hands. We will find a way to position the switch.

The joystick as an operating control can be mounted on the right or left arm rest or midline for easier access, or even at a student’s foot or behind the head. When a joystick is not possible, we use either mechanical or electronic switches—like ASL head arrays—for wheelchair operation and directional control. Electronic proximity switches require no pressure to activate and allow students to drive in a relaxed manner, reducing excessive extension tone. We now use single-switch scanners with a few students who have only one consistent switch site, but have the desire to drive a power wheelchair.