EQUIPMENT

Assistive technology and equipment may help to make the most of your child's independence and provide the best care. The following is a list of equipment to help you get familiar with some of what is available. This is not a full list. Be sure to speak with your care team to decide what may be helpful for your child.

Adaptive pushchair

An adaptive pushchair offers a lighter and more portable alternative to wheelchairs and can be loaded in and out of a vehicle more easily. They can be equipped with accessories that help with comfortable positioning and posture. Pushchairs are often used before a child is big enough for a wheelchair.

Cough-assist machine

A cough-assist machine helps to provide a more productive cough by gradually applying air into the lungs when breathing in and quickly reversing the flow when breathing out to push secretions out to be removed from the mouth with a suction machine.

Pulse oximeter

A pulse oximeter measures the percentage of oxygen in the blood by using a small clip or tape with a sensor placed on a finger or toe. Children with SMA may need extra breathing support, particularly while sleeping, if their oxygen levels drop too low.

Wheelchair

There are many different types of wheelchairs, both manual and power. Manual wheelchairs can be controlled from the chair or pushed by a caregiver. Power chairs are controlled electronically, usually with a joystick, allowing your child to move around without help from others. If muscle strength or control is an issue, where the joystick is placed can be modified and adapted to fit your child's needs.

Bilevel positive airway pressure (BiPAP) machine

A BiPAP machine provides a high volume of air into the lungs when breathing in, inflating the lungs more than someone with SMA may be able to do on their own. When they breathe out, the machine lowers its pressure to allow for a more normal breathing pattern.

Car bed

A car bed allows your child to lie down more comfortably while travelling in a car. These beds are recommended over a traditional car seat, especially for children with more severe types of SMA who may be at risk of apnoea or oxygen desaturation. Be sure to speak with your care team to see what may be helpful for your child.

Stander

Children who are unable to stand alone can be helped into a standing position using a standing frame. Standing puts weight on bones, which may improve bone and muscle strength. There are standing frames that will not move and some that are able to be moved (dynamic standing frames).