A number of speakers have been confirmed for the Canberra ATSA Independent Living Expo, taking place from August 27-28, 2019.
Held in conjunction with iCREATe, the international Convention of Rehabilitation Engineering and Assistive Technology, the ATSA Independent Living Expo is set to present the latest in AT innovations relating to the disability and aged care sectors.
Highlights in this year’s seminar sessions include Permobil clinical education specialist Rachel Fabiniak’s presentation on paediatric powered mobility.
Fabiniak’s lecture will discuss the research which shows that functional, independent mobility in children with disabilities can help to improve cognitive and perceptual skills, reduce learned helplessness, increase confidence, and facilitate participation with peers in everyday activities. She will also cover current evidence for early powered mobility as well as what medical and commercial products are available for use with this population.
Medifab clinical educator Joana Santiago will also be at this year’s Canberra ATSA Independent Living Expo, discussing the predictable patterns of body shape distortion based on the most updated evidence-based practice.
Santiago’s lecture will explore why people with neurological impairment are at high risk of developing postural deformities when routinely placed in “unsafe” environments and/or adopt asymmetrical positions that they are unable to move out of. Santiago will also look at recent studies that have proven clients who spend large periods of time in unsupported postures have higher odds of developing scoliosis and windswept hips.
Astris PME clinical educator and senior OT at AT Australia Tracee-lee Maginnity is another favourite presenting at the expo in Canberra on the clinical implications of selecting a wheelchair.
Maginnity will discuss how people often focus on the features and benefits when selecting an appropriate manual wheelchair, whereas they should also consider the form and function of the wheelchair.
Maginnity will explore how design and material selection impact functional performance and discuss basic material science and the impact that frame construction may have on a client’s ability to function more independently.
The free seminar program at the Canberra expo provides the opportunity for allied health professionals, including occupational therapists and physiotherapists, people with disability and the public, to gather information on a wide range of topics. Alongside the program, there will also be over 50 exhibitors showcasing the latest equipment and services in assistive technology.
To register to attend, visit: www.atsaindependentlivingexpo.com.au/register
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