Article

Mobility aids not only compensate for a locomotor disability, they also
increase users' opportunities for social participation. The objective was to
explore the impacts of wheelchair (WC) acquisition on children's social
participation, personal factors and social environment. METHODS: A literature
review was done in MEDLINE for the years 1996 to 2011 (June) with an age range
from birth to 12 years.
The studies selected had to be in French or English and
concern the impacts of a WC on children, their social participation or social
environment. RESULTS: The studies retained (n = 9) indicate generally positive
impacts. A trend towards improved participation in personal care, mobility,
interpersonal relationships and play was observed. Data regarding the effect on
the development of cognitive functions are contradictory. For the social
environment, a positive change was observed in parents' attitudes and their own
social participation after their child tried Assistive Technology. CONCLUSION:
The results illustrate the complex interaction between person, environment and
social participation. Although they are a compensatory aid, WCs do not have a
negative impact on motor development. Finally, methodologically speaking, the
subject seems to have been explored sufficiently to now be studied in greater
depth by means of empirical studies generating evidence-based data.

Langue : ANGLAIS