Superman Yousif
A custom adaptation has a deep impact on a child’s life. It grants the child the independence to do the things he values. It also creates a ripple effect that includes the child’s family, school, and community. This ripple effect was demonstrated when a little boy, Yousif, received his first at-home adaptation. Before receiving a custom made tilt-in-space chair, Yousif was restricted to sitting unsupported on his bed or the family couch, with supervision by his mother or a sibling. With the help of the chair and side laterals, however, he is now able to sit upright with the correct body alignment, and his family no longer needs to supervise him. The ripple effect continues by positively impacting Yousif’s activities and occupations, such as tabletop play, mealtimes, and interactive apps and games. He has gained the freedom to sit and interact with his siblings or play games on his iPad.
During the delivery of the adaptive chair and the time spent with Yousif and his mother, I could see the significant effect on Yousif and on the family's life. From an occupational therapy standpoint, it is vitally important for Yousif to have this adaptive chair. Childhood is a critical time for growth and development, especially for a child with any form of physical disability. Having a chair of his own that also allows him to play with his siblings and be included at the dinner table with the rest of the family is such a great thing for a child who previously needed the support of someone else during those activities. The ‘simple solutions,’ such as a forward-tilted seat wedge, footplates, laterals, and trunk belts can make an enormous difference in how any individual supports his own body weight. All individuals deserve to enjoy the same rights of inclusion, participation, and a full life in all conditions. Adaptations that promote self-reliance, community participation, and bridge the disparities between children with and without disabilities are crucial to proper care.
About the Author
Ariel Glickman, ADA's Spring 2017 OT Fieldwork student joined the team from New York Institute of Technology (NYIT). The Box, NYIT's blog, recently shared Playing the Specialty Field in Occupational Therapy, celebrating ADA as a fieldwork site for OT students. We are excited to be highlighted through Ariel's experience.