When your complex rehabilitation technology (CRT) equipment breaks down, getting it repaired as quickly as possible is critical. Your chair is what keeps you moving through life. 

But CRT repairs take time. Many factors influence the repair timeline—from insurance documentation requirements to the review and approval process—and a lot of them are outside of the CRT user’s control. Even so, there are some proactive steps you can take to help keep the repair process moving as quickly as possible.

How Can You Help Speed Up the Repair Process?

Tip 1: Report the problem BEFORE it becomes catastrophic. 

Joystick not working properly? Notice a problem with your tire, footrest or battery? Report the issue to your CRT provider as soon as possible so that a small problem doesn’t become a full breakdown. Your wheelchair provider will set up an evaluation to determine what’s causing the problem. In some cases, a technician may be able to perform a remote evaluation, but if that is unsuccessful, you may need to schedule an in-branch or in-home evaluation appointment. 

Tip 2: Understand insurance requirements and approval times. 

Data tells us that almost 45% of the repair process is spent collecting documentation and waiting for insurance approvals, making this one of the most time-intensive parts of the process. Before parts can be ordered or repairs begin, most insurance carriers require prior authorization, which usually includes a repair evaluation and estimate as well as documentation of medical necessity and other requirements. 

You can help the process along by: 

• Understanding what documentation your insurance carrier requires. Learn more about common documentation requirements and seek to understand who is responsible for each, so you know who to contact if something is missing and can help urge them to quickly provide the required documents.  
• Reach out to your insurance carrier during the process to ensure the required documents have been received. 
• As the policyholder, request an expedited review of your documents, stressing that it is important that a decision be made quickly. 
• Keep copies of all the documentation you, your physician, or wheelchair provider have submitted to your insurance carrier and record when those documents were submitted.

Tip 3: Describe the problem as clearly as possible. 

When you reach out to your CRT provider for a repair evaluation appointment, strive to explain the issue as clearly as you can. State what part or parts are affected, what is or isn’t working, when the issue started, and if it’s gotten worse over time. 

Other advice: 

• Want your technician to see what you’re dealing with? Take a quick video when the issue occurs so that you can show them the problem and how it’s affecting your daily life. 
• Take photos of any damage or wear and tear that may help the technician diagnose what’s wrong with your CRT equipment.

Tip 4: Keep a maintenance log. 

Your CRT equipment needs to be in top working order to ensure you can achieve the highest level of mobility and independence you desire. Keep track of repairs and previous problems so you’re well informed about what’s been tried before and what hasn’t. Your records can help add additional information and details to those your technician and wheelchair provider have on file, helping them make an informed diagnosis as quickly as possible. 

Tip 5: Stay informed about your order. 

Seek to keep track of your order as it moves throughout the process. Many CRT providers, NSM included, offer online order tracking that helps you stay informed. If you are an NSM client, you’ll simply need to submit your first and last name and order ID at mynsmorder.com to track your order. If you don’t have your order ID, please email NSM’s customer care team at info@nsm-seating.com to retrieve that information. 

Keep in mind that CRT equipment is comprised of thousands of parts. While CRT suppliers keep a large supply of parts, they can’t feasibly stock every part that might need to be repaired. If a part needs to be ordered, it can add a little time to the process. By staying in touch and asking for updates, you help ensure the lines of communication stay open throughout the process. 

Take Action

Most insurance carriers require prior authorization for many (and sometimes, all) repairs. Often, this includes submitting a prescription and/or statement of medical necessity to prove you need the mobility equipment, even when the equipment was previously approved. 

Educate Yourself: Seek to understand your health plan’s prior authorization requirements and note how the prior authorization process slows down a needed repair. NSM completes more than 100,000 repairs each year and receives payer approval for more than 93% of them, meaning that prior authorization may not be necessary on most repairs. If prior authorization were removed for repairs under $1,500, it could help speed up the process by one to four weeks.

Connect with Advocacy Partners: Legislation is already under consideration in some states to remove prior authorization for some repairs, or if the mobility equipment has previously been approved by an insurance carrier as medically necessary. Connect with advocacy organizations like NCART, iNRRTS, AAHomecare, and other advocates to stay up-to-date about ongoing efforts and learn what is happening in your state.

Share Your Story: If legislation concerning the elimination of prior authorization is being considered in your state, reach out to your elected officials and share how this change would improve your daily life. 

The post Five Tips to Help Speed Up the Repair Process appeared first on NSM — National Seating & Mobility.

When your wheelchair breaks down, you just want to get it fixed as quickly as possible. A repair evaluation with your wheelchair provider at the local branch is often the fastest way to get the repair started, but getting there can be an issue. 

Since transportation to and from CRT-related appointments is not currently covered by most insurance providers, here are a few options to consider. Options may differ by location.

Paratransit

Paratransit services are designed specifically for people who cannot use regular public transit systems, such as individuals with disabilities or senior adults. Generally, paratransit offers door-to-door service, flexible routes and scheduling with accessible vehicles designed to accommodate mobility devices. Examples include Access-A-Ride in New York City or MetroAccess in Washington, D.C. Research your local transit system to see what paratransit options may be available in your area. You may need to meet specific criteria to qualify, and reservations may be required.

Transportation Voucher Programs

These programs offer vouchers or credits that can be used to pay for rides that cover public transit, rideshare services, taxis, paratransit or other transportation options. Programs may have eligibility requirements (sometimes based on income, disability, geographic location or other factors), and voucher programs may focus on different needs, such as medical transport, employment-related travel or general mobility. Examples include RideLink in San Diego County, California, or Dial-A-Ride, which is offered in various locations.

Wheelchair-Accessible Rideshares or Taxis

In larger cities, accessible taxis might be an option to get back and forth from your local wheelchair provider for an appointment. Some rideshare services provide wheelchair-accessible vehicle options, but be aware that these services may need to be scheduled in advance.

Local Nonprofits or Charities

In some locations, nonprofits, senior centers or disability organizations provide accessible transportation for medical appointments. Churches and other faith-based organizations may also be an option in your area.

Pay It Forward: If you can travel to your wheelchair provider’s local branch for an appointment, do so. This can not only facilitate the repair process for your chair, but will help technicians who travel to in-home appointments prioritize CRT users who cannot travel, ensuring everyone gets the help they need as quickly as possible.

Remote Evaluations: First Step in the Repair Process

More and more often, the first step in the repair process is setting up a remote evaluation with a technician to determine what might be wrong. Sometimes, the problem can be determined remotely, and, if not, the remote evaluation allows the technician to better prepare for an in-person evaluation. If you’re client of NSM, contact your local branch to learn more.

ADVOCACY ALERT

If more insurance providers covered transportation for CRT-related appointments, it would help keep more CRT users moving through life with the mobility solutions they need for greater independence and healthier lives. Here’s how you can help:

Educate Yourself: To learn more about what’s included or required by your state’s Medicaid program, please reach out to your state’s Department of Health and Human Services or comparable department. Find your state’s department here. If you’re covered by a private insurance provider or Medicare, reach out to your provider for more information on what types of transportation may or may not be covered under your plan.  

Share Your Story: Reach out to your state’s health and human services department and elected officials at both the state and federal level and explain how their accessible transportation policies affect you. Find your elected officials. 

Make Your Voice Heard: Contact your insurance provider or Medicaid advisory groups to reinforce the importance of accessible transportation for CRT services. Call the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) directly at 1-800-633-4227. 

Engage with advocacy groups and advisory boards. Advocacy organizations such as the National Organization for Assistive and Rehab Technology (NCART), the ITEM Coalition and nonprofits or advocacy groups around specific diagnoses, like the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) or United Spinal Association, can all be helpful in guiding you as you advocate for change.

The post What Are Your Transportation Options for Complex Rehabilitation Technology (CRT)-Related Appointments? appeared first on NSM — National Seating & Mobility.

Gearing up for your first evaluation for mobility equipment or want to make the most of your next appointment with your Assistive Technology Professional (ATP)? Consider these tips to help you prepare

Be Ready to Communicate Your Mobility Goals 

As the Complex Rehabilitation Technology (CRT) user, you need to be able to tell the story of what you want to accomplish — and that includes your personal and professional goals as well as how you like to spend your free time. If there’s something you want to be able to do or a particular mobility need you have, be prepared to talk to your ATP about that desire and why it’s important to you. The more clearly you or your caregiver can communicate that need or goal, the better. 

Be Able to Explain What’s Not Working

If something isn’t working quite right with your mobility equipment—from a faulty joystick or failing battery to a hard-to-maneuver manual chair—be prepared to communicate the problem in detail to your ATP. If you cannot communicate it yourself or don’t feel comfortable sharing about your personal circumstances, ask a caregiver or friend to accompany you and help you communicate your needs and desires. 

Review Your Insurance Coverage and Advocate for Yourself

As the insurance policy holder, you need to know and understand what your insurance provider covers and what it doesn’t as well as any documentation requirements they may have. By understanding what documentation is required to prove medical necessity or move the order forward, you can proactively advocate for yourself with your physician and therapy teams to help us obtain the necessary documents and forms. Once documentation has been submitted to your insurance provider, you can contact your provider to expedite your authorization. And—whether it’s your first evaluation or your 100th—be sure to bring your insurance card and other important information to the appointment. 

Do Your Research

Prior to your appointment or evaluation, take a look at the manufacturer’s website to learn more about what’s currently available and might fit your needs. While you may ultimately end up with a different mobility solution, having a solution in mind can help the ATP better understand what you want or need. Come to the appointment prepared to try out a new seating system or piece of equipment or to be assessed while operating the equipment or driving the chair. 

Ask Questions

Make a list of questions you want answered or information you need to understand during the appointment and go over it with your ATP. Ask to be educated on how your equipment works and what you can do to help maintain it and for documentation that supports these efforts. 

Seek to Understand the Process

Whether you’re ordering new equipment or getting a repair, understanding the nuances of the process can be helpful. Ask your ATP to explain the timeline or provide documentation that helps you better understand next steps. While you don’t need to be an expert on every detail, being familiar with the process can be helpful. 

Have more questions about NSM and mobility solutions? Check out these FAQs. 

The post How to Prepare for Your Mobility Equipment Assessment appeared first on NSM — National Seating & Mobility.

In the Complex Rehabilitation Technology (CRT) industry, assistive technology professionals (ATPs) play a crucial role in ensuring CRT users achieve their desired level of independence. As the experts on mobility equipment, ATPs work collaboratively with CRT users, their families, caregivers, physicians and therapists to recommend mobility equipment that fits the user’s physical needs and mobility goals. As consultants, ATPs must also stay up-to-date on new and emerging technologies in the ever-evolving industry, allowing them to offer CRT users the most advanced and effective mobility solutions. 

ATPs clearly have an important job. Their knowledge of available mobility solutions and technologies, expertise, experience and compassion are valuable tools that help CRT users keep moving through life. Understanding the significance of this vital industry role, National Seating & Mobility is committed to finding concrete, creative ways to invest in today’s ATPs while also shaping the next generation. We talked to Jason Miele, NSM Vice President of Learning and Development, to learn more about how NSM is working to develop ATPs. 

What is an ATP and what do they do? 

ATPs are mobility, seating and position experts. They are part of a CRT users’ care team and provide recommendations, consultation and education to the CRT user and their medical team to find mobility equipment that best fits their medical, functional and overall health needs. ATPs don’t drive the process of obtaining mobility equipment; they serve as consultants, partnering with medical providers to identify the best possible mobility solution for each CRT user’s needs and goals. 

What types of certifications or training do ATPs need? 

The Rehabilitation Engineering and Assistive Technology Society of North America (RESNA) governs professional standards of practice and ethics for ATPs to ensure consumers receive the highest quality of care and service provision. To become an ATP, you must meet specific educational requirements outlined by RESNA, have experience in the CRT and assistive technology space and complete continuing education requirements. To be credentialed as an ATP through RESNA, you have to complete an exam that measures your understanding of the foundational standards of practice. After that, ATPs must renew their credentials every two years and provide evidence of continuing education hours. 

How is NSM working to develop the next generation of ATPs? 

At NSM, we’ve developed several initiatives to invest in the next generation of ATPs. These include: 

• Career Pathways: NSM provides structured career development opportunities for internal associates interested in becoming ATPs, allowing employees to progress within the company.
• Technician-to-ATP Development: We have established a proven methodology for training technicians and supporting their journey to RESNA credentialing.
• Industry Partnerships: Collaborations with RESNA and NRRTS help us shape training programs and industry standards for future ATPs.
• Clinical ATP Program: This initiative targets credentialed Occupational, Physical, and Speech-Language Pathologists who are interested in transitioning into CRT. The program provides specialized training to develop the necessary skills and prepare them for the RESNA exam.

Why are these types of investments important? How do they help CRT users? 

Only a finite number of academic institutions and professional organizations currently produce and develop ATPs. Knowing this, the CRT industry must continue to invest in and develop highly trained ATPs, especially as current ATPs retire or transition to adjacent industries. At NSM, we believe that ATPs are the “center of gravity” in our work in communities across the United States. We’re committed to providing positive clinical outcomes and serving our clients long-term, so we continue to invest in ATP development and sustainment.

Preparing for your first appointment with an ATP or an upcoming evaluation? Here’s what you need to know.

The post Shaping the Next Generation of ATPs appeared first on NSM — National Seating & Mobility.

Most of the time, catastrophic equipment failures don’t just happen. There are usually signs your CRT equipment needs attention and recognizing them means you can get the appropriate service needed before significant damage is done. Let’s consider a few of the top signs your CRT equipment might be ready for a tune-up. 

1. It hasn’t been serviced in a while.

If it’s been more than a year since you had your CRT equipment evaluated, there’s a good chance it needs some attention. The level of wear and tear depends on your lifestyle, but daily use can result in loose bolts, casters that need to be cleaned and other adjustments that need to be made to your wheelchair on a regular basis.

2. Your chair is suddenly hard to maneuver.

Whether you use a manual or power chair, if it suddenly becomes difficult to push or maneuver, it’s time to set up an appointment with your equipment supplier to have it checked out. Resistance, stiffness or jerky motions in power or manual wheelchairs can all suggest issues that need to be taken care of sooner rather than later.

3. Your chair starts making a new or unusual noise.

Noticing a squeak, rattle, grinding, or clicking noise? These sounds could indicate loose components, dirty casters, or worn-out parts that need repair. A registered technician can diagnose the problem and recommend needed maintenance to keep your chair in working order.

4. Your chair’s battery isn’t holding its charge as long.

If you use a power chair and start to notice decreased battery life, it’s time for an evaluation. Over time, batteries lose their ability to hold a full charge, so this could indicate normal wear and tear, but could also point to a faulty charger, inadequate charging habits, electrical issues or other factors that affect battery life. Talking with a technician about your lifestyle and needs can help highlight specific causes and allows the technician to test the battery and electrical system to ensure everything works properly.

5. You notice visible wear and tear or feel extreme discomfort.

Because you use your CRT equipment on a daily basis, wear and tear is normal, but you need to keep an eye out for worn or deflated tires, dirty or worn casters or any changes to your equipment that cause discomfort or instability. If you notice loose bolts, squeaky wheels, or worn-out casters, contact your CRT provider and they can evaluate your chair to determine if anything needs to be replaced or repaired.

You’re the first to notice changes in your CRT equipment. If you detect any of these issues, set up an appointment with your wheelchair provider.

If you already work with National Seating & Mobility (NSM) or are looking for a new CRT provider, contact your local NSM branch to set up an appointment to evaluate your equipment. In some cases, a remote evaluation may be possible to help diagnose the problem. 

Click here to schedule an appointment with your local NSM Branch!

Take Action

Contact lawmakers to discuss the importance of preventive maintenance for CRT users. Simply share your story! 

Looking for a few small maintenance tasks you can perform to help extend the life of your chair? Read this article. 

While research has shown that preventive maintenance can play a vital role in preventing catastrophic failures, most insurance providers do not currently cover it. NSM and other industry advocates are supporting research and proposing legislation to make the case for preventive maintenance coverage, and several states are considering legislation that would provide coverage for preventive maintenance.

Follow advocacy organizations like NCART, iNRRTS, AAHomecare and other advocates to stay up-to-date about ongoing efforts and learn what is happening in your state.

The post 5 Signs Your Complex Rehabilitation Technology (CRT) Equipment Might Need a Tune Up appeared first on NSM — National Seating & Mobility.

Depending on what climate you live in, late fall to early spring can be the perfect time to squeeze in a camping trip, and the Riley family had plenty of advice to offer. Shane and Ainslee Riley live in Maine with their two teenage sons, Liam and Evan, and the Rileys are avid travelers and enjoy camping. 

Both boys use complex rehabilitation technology (CRT) equipment for mobility, so the Rileys shared plenty of accessible travel and camping tips to help you prepare for your next trip. 

When planning a trip, what are some of the questions you ask or decisions you make beforehand? 

You need to determine what you will travel in that meets your needs. Will your accessible vehicle, if you have one, meet the needs for a long road trip? Will you rent an accessible vehicle or RV? If you plan to stay overnight on your way to your destination, are there accessible hotels or campsites en route? 

Also, be sure to research the accessibility at the campsite you plan to rent at your final destination and its proximity to an accessible restroom. Often non-accessible restrooms at campgrounds are very tricky to get into without a lot of heavy lifting and maneuvering, which also creates a lack of privacy. What is your ability to lift? If you can’t lift very much, you may need to travel with a portable lift to make these transitions easier. 

If you’re driving to your campsite, are there benefits to mapping out your route in advance?

We find it helpful to map our route and determine where to stay in advance. That gives us the opportunity to ensure we get an accessible room or campsite with appropriate restroom facilities for our needs. We also research the area for accessible activities and figure out how to make activities that aren’t easily accessible doable for us. 

For wheelchair users and their families and friends, what advice can you offer about selecting a campsite? 

Select an accessible campsite, but also research to ensure that the area where you will put your tent is flat and you can drive a power wheelchair up to it. Having a lightweight transport chair for getting in and out of the tent—and sometimes into the shower areas—is helpful. Our sons sleep more comfortably on a cot with a sleeping pad rather than on the ground, and that also makes it easier for us to pick them up. Again, depending on your ability to lift, you may want to bring a slide board or lift with you. We also have a tent we can stand up in, which makes transfers, helping with dressing and other tasks a little easier. 

If you use a power wheelchair, you’ll want to think about how you’ll charge the battery. If there’s no power at your site, you will need a portable charger or generator of some sort. If you use your vehicle to charge a power wheelchair battery, you risk killing your car battery. 

When planning activities—the things you’ll do and see on your trip—what are some things wheelchair users and their caregivers should consider? 

Research thoroughly. Online information can be misleading, so call ahead to confirm details. Ask about ramp access, transitions and any barriers. For example, some places may consider a 6-inch step “accessible” when it’s not for many CRT users. Specific questions can make or break your plans—especially in areas with variable terrain, like islands with gravel paths.

A National Parks Access Pass can be very helpful too, granting free entry for disabled individuals and up to three guests at all National Parks. We’ve taken our boys to accessible viewing trails in places like Arches National Park and Washington D.C., which has excellent accessibility.

Traveling with your sons, who both use wheelchairs, takes a lot of planning. Why would you encourage other CRT users and their friends or families to travel? 

Why not? It does require some additional advanced planning and research, but it’s worth it. There may be a learning curve at first—and you’ll discover things you wish you’d packed or questions you should have asked—but you’ll know for the next time. You might face unexpected challenges and have to get creative with your solutions, but as long as you’re together and having fun, it makes for great memories. 

You sometimes travel with one or both of your sons’ service dogs. Any advice for CRT users who might be traveling with a service animal? 

Once you know where you’re going, contact your vet to make sure there aren’t additional precautions you need to take or vaccinations your service dog might need. For example, in Georgia, dogs aren’t required to have a vaccination for Lyme’s disease, but in Maine they are. 

Any last pieces of advice for fellow travelers or campers? 

A disability doesn’t have to stop you from traveling. Just this year, one or both of us have traveled with our sons to Puerto Rico, Hurricane Island and Monhegan Island for school trips, taken a cross-country road trip, camped in Colorado and Utah with the Trekkers, and, most recently, gone to Hawaii for a Make-A-Wish trip. We traveled to Baltimore, Boston, Philadelphia, throughout New England, New Jersey, New York, Florida and more. We love to travel! 

Looking for ramps, lifts or other accessibility products that might enhance your travel plans? Reach out to your local National Seating & Mobility branch to learn more about your options.

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At most colleges and universities, the fall semester is in full swing. For first-year students, though, it can take a little time to acclimate to this new season of life and learn to navigate new schedules, expectations, relationships and more. 

But for students who use complex rehabilitation technology (CRT) equipment, it’s best to be a little proactive when making that adjustment to your new home away from home. Here are a few tips from students Rosie Dunn and Alex Johnson and Dr. Misty Parsley, executive director of the Office of Accessibility and Learning Support at Lipscomb University, to help make that transition a little easier. 

1. Don’t procrastinate when it comes to accommodations.
Once you’ve made your college decision, go ahead and get the accommodations process started for accessible housing, parking and other modifications or services you may need. This process might require documentation, so getting an early start can ease stress levels later on. Rosie advises asking for a list of needed documentation early on so you can share it with your doctor, insurance provider, therapists or others. If you have meetings or calls to discuss your accommodation needs, take notes and be sure to send or ask for a follow-up summary of these discussions so everyone is on the same page.

2. Get to know the housing staff. 
“Make sure your dorm director and residence hall staff know you,” Alex says. “Make sure they know about your situation and your needs and don’t be afraid to ask about any accommodations you might need in your room.”

It’s advice Dr. Parsley echoes. “If you live on campus, check in with the housing staff so you know what the plan is for emergencies,” she says. “Every campus should have some type of emergency plan and if a student needs extra help during an emergency, we need to make sure it’s specifically written into the plan.”

3. Develop a relationship with the disability services office.
“Sometimes, students who use wheelchairs don’t register with our office because as long as the elevators and the buttons to open doors work, they can get around,” Dr. Parsley says. Even if you don’t think you need additional accommodations, the faculty and staff in your school’s disability services office can be a great resource to help you have the best college experience possible.

“I want to know who’s on our campus, so that if something happens, like a broken elevator, I can have a backup plan and know which students I need to reach out to,” Dr. Parsley says. “Some students may not need accommodations, but it’s important to us to know who they are and to have already developed a relationship if at some point they do need something.”

4. Communicate proactively with professors and college staff.
Getting to know your professors is an important first step for all first-year students, Alex says. “Introduce yourself to your professors so you can get to know them, and they can get to know you,” he says. “That’s generally good advice for anyone because your professors can help you do your best in college.”

That’s important advice for many reasons, Alex says, but one of the biggest is that you become more than a face in the crowd. If professors, instructors and faculty members know you, your interests and your desire to do well in your classes, they will likely be more willing to help you if issues arise. Also take the extra step to talk to them about any accommodations or needs you might have that will help you do your best work in class.

Rosie agrees and advises students to email professors if you’re going to miss class for any reason, but especially if it’s an accessibility issue. “Just give the professors a heads up,” she says. “If the sidewalk hadn’t been cleared from my dorm, I would email my professors and let them know I wasn’t coming because I wasn’t going to risk getting stuck.”

If accessible entrances are blocked or equipment isn’t working as it should, notify the disability services office or reach out to dorm or facilities staff to report the problem so it can be fixed.

5. Recognize that everyone is a little nervous.
College is full of new experiences, from living away from home for the first time to learning to manage your own schedule. It’s OK to feel nervous or overwhelmed at times.
“Even if you’re really excited about college like I was, you’re going to feel overwhelmed and homesick at times,” Rosie says. “Realize that everyone is a little nervous and worrying about their own things, too.” 

“One of my biggest worries was about getting integrated and making good connections with people on campus,” Alex admits. “But now I’m a part of a bunch of extended friend groups, and I have good, close friends I hang out with regularly. I don’t really know why I was so concerned about that. I’m enjoying my time at college.”  

It’s also important to have a plan for wheelchair repairs, especially if your college or university isn’t close to home. Make sure to schedule a visit to your hometown branch for a tune-up before you head to campus, but also take the time to locate and meet the team at a branch near your college or university. Need help finding an NSM branch? Use our branch locator.

The post Tips to Make Your First Year Easier appeared first on NSM — National Seating & Mobility.

Just a few weeks into his freshman year of college, Alex Johnson is enjoying the independence of this new season of life. 

“Everything’s going great,” the 19-year-old says. “My classes are a little challenging, but that’s nothing that I didn’t expect going into college. I’m enjoying the independence aspect of it. I’m able to be my own person and take on my own tasks.” 

While Alex is enjoying his college experience, the transition from high school to college can be challenging—for parents and students alike. Students have to navigate greater independence and increased responsibility while parents must take a step back and allow their children to make decisions for themselves. 

It’s a stressful transition for all parents, but especially for parents of children with a disability. Alex has used a wheelchair since he was about six, and his dad, Nathan Johnson, says watching his son head off to college has been a season full of competing emotions. 

“There were lots of emotions throughout Alex’s senior year, but when it came time to move him and leave him at Lipscomb, that’s when my emotions ran extremely high,” Nathan recalls. “There was some anxiety and sadness, but all that faded when I realized that he is happy in his new environment.

“The biggest transition for me is getting used to the idea of not being right there if he needs help,” Nathan continues. “Like many other parents working through this transition, you realized that you have been preparing your children for this stage in life. Now it’s time to let go and let them soar. In our case, we had a few extra layers to deal with in preparing Alex for college.” 

Making the College Decision

For Alex and his family, Alex’s college decision began with touring colleges and universities. Knowing he’d be rolling across campus multiple times a day, Alex wanted to make sure he was comfortable managing the campus, including classroom buildings, residence halls and simply navigating sidewalks and pathways. 

“We started the process on the initial campus visits at different schools,” Nathan recalls. “We wanted to see who was ready and who wasn’t ready for a wheelchair user.”

“Looking at the small details” down to the way Alex was included—or in some cases, excluded—from campus tours with other prospective students helped the Johnsons navigate Alex’s final decisions about where to attend college. 

“Once Alex decided to attend Lipscomb,” Nathan says, “the thought process went toward making his transition as smooth as possible.” 

For the Johnsons, that meant starting the conversation with Lipscomb University’s Office of Accessibility and Learning Support. Dr. Misty Parsley serves as the office’s executive director. 

“I had gotten to know Alex pretty well because he’d been on campus for two years doing his wheelchair challenge, and I’d gotten to know his dad,” Dr. Parsley says. “When he came, I told him, ‘Our campus is not perfect, and we’re still learning, so you have to be willing to communicate with me about what you need.’”

Dr. Parsley’s words built upon a foundation Alex’s parents had started putting in place since he was young. 

“We raised Alex to be as independent as possible,” Nathan says. “We also raised him to know that it’s OK to ask for help, and it’s OK to advocate for yourself by offering a suggestion that may be helpful for wheelchair users. The majority of people are willing to help; they just need to be educated on the specific needs of wheelchair users.” 

Planning for Alex’s Move

Keeping the lines of communication open with Lipscomb was vital for the Johnsons as they began to prepare for Alex’s freshman year. The summer before Alex started his freshman year, the family set up meetings with different departments across campus including the Office of Accessibility and Learning Supports as well as housing, financial aid and food services. 

“With a wheelchair user in the family, we have learned to plan everything,” Nathan says. “Moving to college took a lot of planning, so, parents, start early.” 

Planning for all possible scenarios is something Alex and his family have been doing for most of his life, and heading to college was no different. The family arranged for a visit to a residence hall to take measurements and ask a lot of questions that helped them make informed decisions about Alex’s on-campus living situation. 

“I use both a manual and power wheelchair for my day-to-day,” Alex says. “So, living with another person in a small dorm room probably wasn’t going to be doable. My mom was worried that with a private room I wouldn’t get out and meet people, but that hasn’t happened. I’m a people person, and I enjoy being around others and sharing community.” 

For Nathan, talking through common tasks and the accessibility aids Alex might need to complete them on his own was another moment of transition. The family worked through the daily tasks of Alex’s life to make sure he could live as independently as possible. 

“Bringing the closet rods down to his level, using command hooks to make drawer pulls or openers, elevating furniture so he can get his wheelchair under the desk—those are all things we had to think about,” Nathan says. 

The Johnsons also had to think through all the what-ifs, which often turned into conversations with Dr. Parsley and her team. 

“What if the power goes out?” Nathan asks. “What if Alex is on an upper floor of a building, how does he get down? Is there an accessible bathroom in the building? These are all questions Alex had to think through and advocate for to develop plans. Thankfully, Lipscomb has been wonderful at helping us get everything lined up.” 

Enjoying the New Season

While Nathan is excited to see his son thrive in this new, more independent season of life, the transition—and the conversations they’ve had to have because of it—haven’t always been easy. 

“We’ve really let Alex take the lead on the college process,” Nathan says. “When questions have come up, we’ve worked through them, but the conversation that always bothers me is the one about not being able to always go where your friends go or do the things they do. 

“We all know that the American Disabilities Act (ADA) requires the bare minimum, so this leads to places, especially older businesses and buildings, that aren’t accessible,” Nathan continues. “If Alex can get in the door, can he get to a table? Use the restroom? Get to where his friends are sitting?” 

But as Alex closes in on the end of his first semester of college, he couldn’t be happier. He’s been able to make friends, learn a lot (about himself and his major) and stretch his wings a bit. If he could give any advice to his younger self, it would be simple: 

“College is going to be a lot better for you than high school,” he says. “I’m just really enjoying my time here at college. It’s been a breath of fresh air.” 

The post A Breath of Fresh Air appeared first on NSM — National Seating & Mobility.

There’s a lot to consider when making your college decision, especially for college students who use Complex Rehabilitation Technology (CRT) for mobility. 

Recently, we chatted with Rosie Dunn, a 2022 graduate of the University of Notre Dame and current graduate student at Belmont University in Nashville, and Alex Johnson, a freshman at Lipscomb University, a faith-based, liberal arts college in Nashville, about their experiences, advice and insight for new and soon-to-be college students. Dr. Misty Parsley from Lipscomb University also offered insights as a university administrator. 

Meet the Experts

Rosie Dunn is a 2022 graduate of the University of Notre Dame, who recently completed a graduate program in disability studies at University College Dublin. Rosie is currently pursuing a doctorate in occupational therapy at Nashville’s Belmont University. She is a full-time manual wheelchair user after suffering a spinal cord injury at a young age. 

Alex Johnson just began his freshman year at Lipscomb University in Nashville, where he is a pastoral leadership major. Alex grew up in Tennessee and advocates for accessibility and disability awareness through an awareness program he and his dad, Nathan, developed called “Spend a Day in My Wheels.”

Dr. Misty Parsley is the executive director of the Office of Accessibility and Learning Support at Lipscomb University in Nashville. In this role, Dr. Parsley works to ensure accessibility and inclusion to students and campus visitors with any type of disability. 

Advice to Help Navigate Your College Decision

If you’re visiting college this fall in preparation to make your college decision, Rosie and Alex had a few suggestions to guide you through the process. 

1. Visit your top choices.
   “I recommend that you visit any school you’re applying to or seriously considering in person,” Rosie says. While virtual visits can be helpful, visiting the campus in person gives you a feel for the campus terrain, environment and atmosphere. “I toured schools I really liked on paper, but visiting helped me to see if I could physically navigate campus on a regular basis,” Rosie says. “It’s really valuable to see the campus with your own eyes and interact with people and see if it’s an environment you want to be in.”
   
   Virtual visits, photos and videos are helpful, but there’s nothing like rolling around campus on your own wheels. A visit can help you gauge the terrain and decide if it’s something you can physically navigate day-in and day-out, Alex advises. “Make sure you visit and that you’re comfortable managing campus,” he says. 

It’s also important to think about things like weather. Rosie knew that Notre Dame would have colder weather and more snow than her hometown, Nashville. “It snows a lot at Notre Dame, and it’s very cold,” she says. “I had to think about if I was physically able to handle those temperatures and ask questions about how quickly they are about clearing the sidewalks when it snows.”

2. Meet with disability services.
   All colleges and universities that receive federal funding must have a disability services office and provide accommodations for students with disabilities. Both Rosie and Alex advise reaching out to the disability services offices at your top schools while you’re still in the process of making your decision.
   
   “Make sure you meet with the Office of Accessibility or whatever your school calls the disability services office and introduce yourself personally,” Alex says. “They can help you get integrated with campus and help you with any accommodations you may need. It’s not a shameful thing to have to need a little help.”
   
   Prospective students should ask questions about things that might seem obvious—parking, accessible entrances, or the process for taking out your trash or getting your mail—so that you know what solutions are in place for students with disabilities before you make your decision or move to campus.
   
   Those are conversations Dr. Misty Parsley says most disability services offices welcome, especially at Lipscomb. 

“One of our core values at Lipscomb is belonging, so we want to make sure anyone who comes to Lipscomb feels like they belong here,” she says. “Students with disabilities and their families can help to educate us [about accessibility]. So it’s really important to find a campus that’s willing to listen and develop a relationship with you as a student.

“So, as you’re looking at colleges, get to know the staff in the disability services office,” she continues. “Even if you don’t think you need accommodations, at some point in your college career, you may need help from our office, and we want to make sure that relationship is already developed.”

3. Talk to students who use mobility equipment.
   Talking with students who navigate campus in a wheelchair or use other mobility equipment can be a great way to get a glimpse of what it’s like to live there, Rosie says. “I talked with a girl who was a year ahead of me and was able to get her perspective of what it’s like to really be a student there,” Rosie says. If you already know a CRT user who is a student at one of your top schools, Rosie suggests reaching out. Otherwise, ask the disability services office about students who might be willing to share about their college experience. 

If you’re in the process of making college visits this fall, take a few minutes to research local wheelchair providers close to your top schools. Once you’ve made your decision, schedule a visit to meet the local team before the school year begins. Use our branch locator to find a local NSM branch.

The post Navigating Your College Decision appeared first on NSM — National Seating & Mobility.

For wheelchair riders, well-maintained, functioning equipment isn’t just important, it’s vital. 

Working manual or power chairs allow users to move through life—going to work or school, enjoying time with friends and family, running errands and living independently. A malfunctioning mobility device can disrupt these activities, leading to lost income, decreased independence and health complications. 

To avoid these setbacks, it’s crucial to keep your equipment in optimal condition. Here are several small tasks you can perform regularly to extend your chair’s life.

1. Clean your chair regularly.
   Wipe down your chair with a damp cloth and mild detergent, focusing on areas that come in contact with your body, like armrests, seats, and headrests. This simple cleaning routine prevents grime from building up and keeps your chair looking and feeling fresh. Regular cleaning also helps prevent the spread of germs and illnesses, keeping you and your family healthier.
   
2. Care for the casters.
   Front casters increase maneuverability but also tend to collect debris like hair and lint, which can impede performance. Clean casters regularly, and if necessary, remove the bolt to clear out trapped particles. You may need assistance from a caregiver or technician for this. Manual chair users should also check caster alignment and alert a technician to make these precision adjustments, so contact your local wheelchair provider such as National Seating & Mobility (NSM) to set up a maintenance check. Casters that are square and properly aligned will roll straighter, longer and easier.
     
3. Wash cushions and other removable items.
   Most wheelchair cushion covers are machine washable, so wash them regularly. Six months after delivery, you could qualify for a new cushion cover, so talk to your wheelchair professional about your options. Before washing, inspect the cover for excessive wear or tears and follow the care instructions provided in your user manual. Once the cover is removed, the actual cushion can be cleaned, but the method depends on what type of cushion you have. Also take a few seconds to clean underneath your cushion where dust and crumbs can easily collect.

REMINDER: Insurance may provide coverage for a new seat and back cushion every two years. Since the materials on seating may wear down, you should check with your wheelchair provider at the two year mark to consider replacement. You may only need a physician’s prescription for replacement, if it is not considered custom molded seating.

4. Check all nuts and bolts on a regular basis.
   Everyday use, rough terrain, and travel can loosen screws and bolts. Every few months, inspect your chair for loose hardware, especially on headrests, wheel locks and cushion hardware. Use an Allen key to tighten these areas. If you notice more complex issues, schedule a check-up with your local wheelchair provider.
   
5. Monitor tire pressure.
   Low tire pressure makes manual chairs harder to push and makes it harder for power chairs to maneuver, so check the pressure regularly. Manufacturers often print the recommended pressure on the side of the tire. In addition to requiring users to push significantly harder, severely under-inflated tires can eventually cause damage to rims and spokes. Some wheelchair users may opt for flat-free inserts that use a lightweight polyurethane membrane and don’t require air.
   
6. Take care of the battery.
   Power chair users should monitor their batteries for signs of wear, like dim lights, a rotten-egg smell or slow startup. To maintain battery health, fully charge it daily. Although most batteries reach full charge between 80-100%, leave the chair plugged in for two extra hours to ensure maximum capacity. Since chargers automatically shut off when fully charged, consider investing in an outlet timer to manage extended charging periods.

If your chair starts making unusual noises or feels off, reach out to your local wheelchair provider to schedule a check-up. If there is a broken component or something is malfunctioning, insurance may cover those repairs. Taking care of a problem early can often help avoid a catastrophic failure. If you don’t have a wheelchair provider, use the our branch locator to find an NSM branch near you. 

ADVOCACY ALERT: Help Make Preventive Maintenance a Covered Benefit for Wheelchair Riders

While research has shown that preventive maintenance can play a vital role in preventing catastrophic failures,  most insurance providers do not currently cover it. NSM and other industry advocates are supporting research and proposing legislation to make the case for preventative maintenance coverage.

In April 2024, Tennessee became the first state to pass a bill requiring Medicaid reimbursement for preventive maintenance, which the governor signed into law in late May. Ongoing advocacy efforts continue in other states, with advocacy organizations like the National Coalition for Assistive and Rehab Technology (NCART), the American Association for Homecare (AAHomecare) and the International Registry of Rehabilitation Technology Suppliers (iNRRTS) urging reform. 

Ways you can get involved: 

• Stay informed. Follow NCART, iNRRTS, AAHomecare and other advocates to stay up-to-date about ongoing efforts. 
• Contact your local lawmakers. Find local elected officials and contact them to discuss the importance of preventive maintenance for CRT users. 

Share your story. Personal experiences are powerful tools for change. Partner with advocacy organizations or use social media to share how coverage for preventive maintenance would help improve your life.

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