Use of powered mobility for a young adult with profound and multiple learning disabilities: a practice analysis

Statement of context: Powered mobility has reported benefits as a learning tool for individuals limited in independent mobility. The majority of literature focuses on early years populations and there remains a need to address powered mobility for adults with profound and multiple learning disabilities. This article explores the experience of switch-operated powered mobility training for one young adult with profound and multiple learning disabilities. Critical reflection on practice: Powered mobility provided a motivating medium through which previously unseen skills, such as upper limb use, were demonstrated. Use of switches, rather than typically used joysticks, allowed successful participation. Implication for practice: Providing the right equipment, environment and appropriate challenge for an individual can facilitate unexpected achievement.