OTHY415 - Assistive Technology Assignment - ACU

Assignment Task

Background

Harper is a 10 year old male diagnosed with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD), a degenerative neuromuscular disease leading to progressive muscle fibre degeneration and weakness caused by a missing gene that produces muscle (1). Prognosis is poor in DMD, with most individuals wheelchair dependent by 12 years old, and death occurring as a result of respiratory or cardiac complications in teenage years of 20’s (1). Harper lives at home with his mother (name), Father (name) and sister (name). Due to his diagnosis, Harper experiences difficulty completing gross motor and fine motor movements, as well as mobilising due to degeneration of muscle. Harper is currently mobilising in a power wheelchair (PWC) due to increased difficulties mobilising. Alongside DMD, Harper also suffers from sleep apnoea.

Harper has a resilient and strong willed attitude, and is motivated to continue participating in his meaningful occupations. He is an active child, and participates in surfing, swimming lessons, DJ lessons, PWC football and being out in the community with his family and youth group. Harper’s family provide informal support, and facilitate his engagement in activities. He attends fortnightly hydrotherapy sessions with the physiotherapist, as well as attending Occupational Therapy. Harpers declining mobility over the past 2 years has impacted both Harper and his family, having physical and emotional impacts. His declining mobility has impacted his ability to engage in activities independently, requiring increased assistance from supports or technology. 

Harper remains independent with many of his ADL’s including bed transfers, however requires assistance for other wheelchair transfers. Harper engages in meal preparation with his family, and can independently complete tasks, however his abilities are declining as his condition progresses.

Assistive Technology

List AT the participant currently uses related to the activity/task this AT request addresses (this would include transfer AT if a mobility AT request). Include information on:

• the type of AT- information on model, age, history of repair and ongoing suitability for the participant’s need
• the level of independence or support the participant will need to use the AT
• how the participant’s current AT will work together with the AT being assessed
• any changes needed to the participant’s environment, transport, or other AT, that will be needed for the AT being assessed.

Feature Matching Chart

Create a feature matching chart that:

a) lists at least four (core) AT features and details their intended functional outcomes (do not include cushion or accessories).

b) compares at least two AT solutions that may address these features

When describing functional outcomes consider including:

• How the feature may increase the participant’s independence / address the goal/s
• How the feature may reduce the need for other supports

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