It’s hoped a $3.5 million Government high tech inclusivity project will help get 100 people with progressive conditions including Multiple Sclerosis and Cerebral Palsy, into high-performance power wheelchairs.
Disability Issues Minister Louise Upston said the Disability Support Services team will work with provider, Enable New Zealand, on the project.
“In this research project, high-performance power wheelchairs are going to people aged 14 years and older, who would benefit from a power wheelchair to improve independence, participation, and quality of life,” said Ms Upston.
“It’s a two-year programme, and the Government is really excited to fund meaningful research evaluating social and economic benefits for the disability community.”
The Minister said international research found that having the right wheelchair leads to increased independence and mental wellbeing, and broader disability outcomes such as improved engagement in education, training, or work. The new project aims to test these assumptions in the New Zealand context, she said.
“Earlier access to high-performance power wheelchairs can reduce dependence on carers and prevent injuries and hospital admissions. While cheaper options might provide short term cost-savings, they can also drive higher long-term health and support costs, which end up costing disabled people, and New Zealand, more.”
“The project will monitor and evaluate the benefits that access to the right wheelchair can provide to people with progressive conditions. Findings will inform the future provision of equipment, and will also inform future policy, funding, and investment decisions.
“Using disability research innovation ‘activation mapping’, participants will have their experiences tracked over time to understand intervention impacts.
“Assistive technology is essential to the wellbeing and social participation of many disabled New Zealanders, and I’m committed to improving access and outcomes for disabled people,” Ms Upston said.
