ABSTRACT
The World Health Organization estimates that 1% of the world's population, approximately 75 million people, needs or could benefit from using a wheelchair as their primary means of mobility. The term community participation is used to refer to returning to the mainstream of family and community life, engaging in roles and responsibilities, and actively contributing to one's social groups and society. The ability of people who require a wheelchair to successfully participate in their community and regain independence depends on access to appropriate and adequate wheelchairs. In 2015, the International Society of Wheelchair Professionals was founded with the goal to professionalize the wheelchair sector. A model AT assessment team consists of the client, a physiatrist, physical therapist or occupational therapist, speech and language pathologist, rehabilitation engineer, and an equipment supplier who has training and certification in AT. Delivery of the new device to the client is one of the final steps in the AT service delivery process.
