What exactly is adaptive equipment?

Adaptive equipment falls under two basic categories:

1.      Equipment that has been modified to accommodate the needs of your child. For example, a high chair or stroller that has more room and has been designed with the safety of a special needs child in mind.

2.      Equipment that has been designed to help your child more easily navigate and participate in life. For example, a walker that allows your child more mobility and freedom.

Adaptive equipment and technology has been developed to help kids with brain injury succeed in everyday life—at home, in school, and in the community.  Adaptive equipment ranges from the very simple, such as walkers and seating, to the more complex, such as computerized systems. Adaptive equipment and technology include the following:

• Equipment that aids mobility
• Seating and standing equipment
• Manual and power wheelchairs
• Equipment that allows the child to control her environment (such as turning on lights, opening doors, etc.)
• Equipment that enhances cognition
• Equipment that helps with vision issues
• Equipment that helps with learning
• Equipment that makes it easier to do everyday tasks, such as bathing, grooming, and eating

Your child’s occupational and physical therapists are best equipped to assess you child’s needs for adaptive equipment and technology, and can make recommendations based on your child’s particular situation.

Basically, just about any type of equipment used for an able-bodied child has been adapted and modified for children with cerebral palsy. Try logging on to www.adaptivemall.com or www.especialneeds.com for a full range of adaptive equipment.

Because adaptive equipment and technology can be very expensive, many parents worry about whether they can afford it. While insurance benefits for equipment may run out before you are able to get your child everything they need, or if you are denied a particular item that you think is necessary for your child’s health and happiness,  knowing how to navigate insurance will improve the chances of your child getting the equipment that could make a huge difference in your life. If you are battling insurance companies or don’t know where to turn, don’t give up. Contact us right away to find out how we can help.