Seating & Wheelchair Prescription Tips & Guides

Seating and wheelchair prescription is an intricate process involving customised solutions to support the unique mobility and comfort needs of individuals who require wheelchairs or specialised seating. Properly fitted seating and wheelchairs enhance comfort, postural support, reduce the development of pressure sores, and improve overall mobility, enabling individuals to engage more actively in daily life, reduce physical strain and maintain their independence.

Understanding the Seating & Wheelchair Prescription Process
Seating and wheelchair prescription is a specialised domain focusing on evaluating individual needs for mobility, comfort, positioning, daily life, and environment. It includes evaluating factors such as physical and cognitive impairment, mobility level, and lifestyle requirements. Customised seating solutions can include adjustments to wheelchair height, width, and depth, adding features such as power, as well as specialised cushions and back supports designed to promote proper posture and prevent pressure sores.

Signs That Seating or Wheelchair Adjustments Are Needed
Monitoring for indicators that modifications or a new wheelchair or cushion are necessary can prevent pain, injury, and mobility limitations. Common signs include:

• Discomfort or pain after short periods of sitting in a wheelchair.
• Poor posture or slumping due to insufficient back, lateral, or arm support, seat width, height, or depth. 
• Difficulty with transfers to and from the wheelchair. 
• A change in physical or cognitive condition, i.e: recent weight gain/loss or cognitive decline.
• The development of pressure sores and increased pain. 
• A change in environment i.e: sloping or gravel surfaces, or accessways.  ​

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How Occupational Therapists (OTs) Help with Seating & Wheelchair Prescription
Occupational Therapists play a critical role in seating and wheelchair prescription. Their supports includes: 

• Conducting Assessments: OTs perform comprehensive assessments to understand an individual’s mobility, pre-existing condition, comfort requirements to recommend the most suitable seating and wheelchair options.
• Customising Solutions: They tailor seating solutions to each individual by providing adjustments, adding supports and features. 
• Recommendation for new equipment: Based on the assessment, OTs may recommend new wheelchairs (manual or electric), pressure-relieving cushions, or power add-ons. 
• Education and Training: OTs provide education on proper wheelchair use, transfers, pressure-relief exercises and maintenance, ensuring individuals can navigate their environment safely.

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Support Strategies and Tips for Optimal Wheelchair Use
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• Consult with professionals: Engage occupational therapists, physiotherapists, or seating specialists who can accurately assess and address specific mobility and seating needs. 
  
• Select appropriate equipment: Wheelchair and pressure-relieving cushions are selected according to the individual’s mobility level, physical and cognitive condition, environment, and daily routine. 
  
• Adjust seating: Ensuring that the seating is properly adjusted, including seat height, depth, back, lateral, and armrest positioning, along with footplates is crucial for overall comfort, performance, and health. 
  
• Incorporate cushions and supports: Incorporate pressure-relieving cushions and additional supports such as lateral or head supports to enhance comfort and prevent pressure sore development. 
  
• Regular Monitoring: Physical, cognitive, or environmental changes occur over time and may require seating and wheelchair adjustments. Scheduling regular reviews with an OT can help address evolving needs.

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​Step-by-Step Guide to Effective Seating & Wheelchair Prescription

1. Comprehensive Assessment: A standard initial assessment by an OT will involve a review of medical history, physical and cognitive symptoms, level of independence, other assistive technology used, lifestyle and responsibilities, and the environment an individual frequently interacts within. 
2. Identify Goals and Preferences: Discussing personal goals and preferences, such as mobility, expectations, preferences, transportation needs, functional needs, ADLs, and social participation will ensure this meets the individual’s lifestyle and aspirations. 
3. Measuring: Obtaining the correct measurements of an individual’s body and expected changes (decline or improvement in health) will ensure that the right wheelchair and cushion is scripted. 
4. Exploring options: This step involves collaboration with the OT and specialised equipment provider where various seating options, from manual and powered wheelchairs to specialised cushions and supports will be recommended.
5. Trial Period: Whenever possible, arrange for a trial period with the selected wheelchair or seating system to assess comfort, fit, and functionality. Trial periods are highly beneficial, allowing the individual to experience different options and provide feedback before purchasing. 
6. Obtain necessary prescriptions and purchasing: In some cases, formal prescriptions or recommendations are required to purchase or rent specific wheelchairs and cushions, especially if funding assistance is required i.e: NDIS. Prior to purchasing, ensure the therapist and individual are in agreement of the final product. 
7. Delivery and installation: Upon delivery, OT’s typically oversees this process ensuring the final setup meets the individual’s requirement and it is adjusted to their personal preference. 
8. Training and maintenance: OT’s provide essential training for the individual and caregivers on how to use the wheelchair or seating system effectively, including techniques for transfers and 9. adjustments.
9. Follow-Up Evaluations: Scheduling regular follow-up appointments to review the effectiveness of the wheelchair and pressure-cushion, make necessary adjustments, and address any questions or concerns that arise.

Conclusion: Seating and wheelchair prescription is essential for enhancing comfort and mobility for individuals who require assistance. By recognising signs of discomfort, implementing tailored solutions, and fostering a supportive environment, individuals can achieve greater independence and improved quality of life. For personalised advice or assistance with seating and wheelchair prescription, please contact us at Belong Health.

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Support Strategies and Tips for Choosing Assistive Technology
 

• Consult with Professionals: Work with occupational therapists, physiotherapists, or assistive technology specialists to conduct a thorough assessment.
• Encourage Open Communication: Discuss specific needs and preferences with the assessor to ensure that recommendations align with individual goals and preferences.
• Consider the Environment: Evaluate the individual’s living, social, and working environments to identify any barriers that assistive technology can help overcome.
• Trial Equipment When Possible: Whenever feasible, trial various assistive devices to determine which solutions best meet the individual’s needs before making a purchase.
• Educate on Device Use: Ensure that the individual, family and caregivers receive proper training on how to use the recommended assistive technology effectively, including information on accessing repair or replacement services if needed.

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Our Values in Practice
At Belong Health, we are dedicated to supporting your mobility, comfort, and independence through personalised seating and wheelchair solutions. Grounded in compassion, integrity, and tailored care, we ensure each recommendation meets your specific needs and lifestyle. Whether you’re based in Mandurah, Rockingham, Perth Metro, or connecting with us via telehealth, our occupational therapists are here to guide you every step of the way—from assessment and customisation to fitting and training—empowering you or your loved ones to live life with confidence and ease.​

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Explore Home Therapy Packs
Our guides provide practical strategies to support children facing these challenges. To further enhance your approach, consider our Home Therapy Packs, designed to engage children and improve focus at home.
Explore Home Therapy Packs

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​Referrals to Belong Health
We are Medicare and Private Health fund registered for Occupational Therapy and Speech Pathology.

EPC/Team care arrangements/Chronic disease (CDM) or GP management plans and self-referrals are all acceptable.

WA NDIS Registered Provider  

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Medicare
You can get a referral from your/your child’s GP for OT on a Chronic Disease Management (CDM) plan this gives you 5 sessions for OT per calendar year with a $53 rebate available on each session or a Helping Children with Autism/PDD/ or an eligible disability package (20 sessions between allied health professionals, as set up by a Paediatrician/Psychiatrist) which gives your child under 16 years a $75 rebate per session for the 20 sessions, you can use up to 10 sessions per Health Professional (up to 10 for OT) and you will need a separate referral letter from your child’s Paediatrician for each Allied Health Professional you are seeking services from. 

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Private Health
Your Private Health fund may cover up to 75% of the cost of OT sessions if this is included in your cover, be sure to call them or check your policy for details.

No referral or self referral
You do not require a referral for accessing OT

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NDIS Registered Provider
We are an NDIS Registered Provider
Whether you or your child have NDIS funding that is NDIS Managed, Third Party Plan Managed or you are Self-Managing your funds, you are able to use your funding to cover the full cost of therapy services plus travel costs. You will need provide us with your/your child’s NDIS number and plan details ahead of your first session. Once you have booked a session or contacted us, our team will be in touch to discuss our service agreement and provide you with our services price list. 

13 Littleton st, Falcon

Phone: 08 9586 3934

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OFFICE HOURS:         MONDAY TO FRIDAY 8:30am - 4:30pm

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