How to Be Seating and Mobility Technician for the Elderly - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Mar 3, 2021 / 6 Minutes Read / By Albert

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The elderly population is one of the fastest growing demographics in the world, and with this increase has come an increased need for seating and mobility technicians. These technicians are responsible for providing specialized assessments and equipment to elderly individuals, designed to improve their comfort, mobility, and overall quality of life. By providing the right seating and mobility solutions, elderly individuals can enjoy greater independence and improved physical health, which can have positive effects on their mental health as well. In addition, seating and mobility technicians can also play an important role in providing education and training to caretakers and family members, ensuring that elderly individuals receive the best possible care.

Steps How to Become

Earn a High School Diploma or GED. A high school diploma or GED is typically the minimum requirement for becoming a seating and mobility technician for the elderly.
Take college courses in engineering, mechanics and anatomy. Many employers prefer technicians with a college degree, so taking college classes can help you stand out among other potential candidates.
Obtain certification as a seating and mobility technician. Most states require certification, and The Rehabilitation Engineering and Assistive Technology Society of North America (RESNA) offers certification exams.
Obtain hands-on experience with seating and mobility devices. Many employers prefer candidates who have prior experience working with these types of devices. Look for internships and volunteer opportunities in your area.
Obtain a license or certification in your state. Many states require technicians to be licensed or certified. Check with your state licensing board to find out what you need to do to become certified.
Join a professional organization. Joining a professional organization can help you stay up-to-date on the latest trends and technologies related to seating and mobility devices. RESNA is one of the most popular organizations for seating and mobility technicians.

The quality of life for the elderly is greatly improved when they have access to seating and mobility solutions that are tailored to their individual needs. To ensure that these solutions meet the necessary requirements, it is important to hire a skilled and capable Seating and Mobility Technician. These technicians are knowledgeable in the areas of anatomy, physiology, body mechanics and product selection, allowing them to accurately assess the needs of elderly individuals and identify the best seating and mobility options for them. With their expertise, elderly individuals can benefit from increased comfort, mobility, safety, and independence.

You may want to check Senior Living Facility Director, Geriatric Physical Therapist, and Public Health Educator for the Elderly for alternative.

Job Description

Provide appropriate seating and mobility evaluations for elderly clients in accordance with guidelines and protocols.
Work closely with clients and their families to determine the best seating and mobility solutions.
Assist clients in their selection of the appropriate seating and mobility product.
Provide instruction and training to clients and their families on the proper use of their seating and mobility products.
Maintain accurate records of client progress and evaluations.
Create reports and documents related to seating and mobility assessments and recommendations.
Develop and implement individualized seating and mobility plans for each client.
Monitor, adjust, and maintain seating and mobility equipment as needed.
Educate clients and their families on the importance of safety when using seating and mobility products.
Stay up-to-date on the latest technologies related to seating and mobility products.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of anatomy and biomechanics as it relates to seating and mobility
Understanding of wheelchair construction and components
Ability to assess the needs of elderly clients for appropriate seating and mobility equipment
Ability to make minor adjustments to wheelchairs, including tensioning and tightening
Knowledge of wheelchair accessories and specialized devices
Ability to educate clients on the proper use and maintenance of their equipment
Understanding of Medicare and Medicaid regulations for durable medical equipment
Ability to communicate effectively with clients, caregivers, and healthcare providers
Understanding of the principles of ergonomics and safety
Ability to lift and maneuver wheelchairs and other related equipment
Knowledge of relevant codes, standards, and guidelines for wheelchair seating and mobility
Knowledge of alternate funding sources for wheelchairs, scooters, and other assistive devices

Seating and Mobility Technicians for the Elderly are a vital role in helping elderly individuals maintain their independence and quality of life. The most important skill a Seating and Mobility Technician must possess is excellent problem solving abilities. Without this skill, technicians would be unable to assess the needs of their clients and find the most suitable solutions.

For example, they must be able to identify any functional and ergonomic limitations of an elderly person, evaluate their current chair and wheelchair and then recommend changes to maximize function and comfort. technicians must be knowledgeable about a variety of specialized seating and mobility products that are available to meet the needs of their clients. Lastly, they must also possess strong communication skills to effectively provide educational information to clients, families and caregivers about the best seating and mobility solutions for each individual situation.

Gerontologist, Nutritionist for Seniors, and Medical Director of a Nursing Home are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

How do you ensure that elderly patients are provided with the most comfortable seating and mobility solutions?
How do you approach providing seating and mobility solutions to elderly patients with challenging needs?
Describe a situation in which you had to quickly resolve a seating and mobility issue for an elderly patient.
What techniques do you use to effectively assess elderly patients seating and mobility needs?
How do you ensure that seating and mobility solutions are tailored specifically for each elderly patient?
What safety protocols do you follow when fitting elderly patients with seating and mobility solutions?
How do you remain up-to-date on the latest developments in seating and mobility technology?
What strategies do you use to ensure that elderly patients are provided with the most suitable seating and mobility solutions for their needs?
Describe a situation in which you had to troubleshoot a complex seating and mobility problem for an elderly patient.
How do you ensure that elderly patients are given appropriate instructions on how to use their seating and mobility devices?

Common Tools in Industry

Wheelchair Lift. a platform or mechanism designed to assist an elderly person in entering and exiting a wheelchair. (eg: Bruno stairlift)
Assistive Armrests. specially designed armrests that provide additional support and stability for a wheelchair user. (eg: Karman Ergonomic Wheelchair)
Recliner Chairs. chairs that are designed to recline and provide optimal comfort and support for the elderly. (eg: Pride Lift Chair)
Transfer Benches. benches that are designed to make transfers from a wheelchair to a bed, toilet or bathtub easier. (eg: Drive Medical Bariatric Transfer Bench)
Pressure Reducing Cushions. cushions that are designed to reduce pressure points and improve comfort for the elderly. (eg: Roho Cushion)
Standing Frames. frames that enable elderly individuals to stand up and move around while providing stability. (eg: Invacare Tilt-N-Space Standing Frame)
Mobility Aids. devices designed to help elderly individuals move around more easily, such as walkers, canes, and scooters. (eg: Invacare Rollator Walker)

Professional Organizations to Know

Assistive Technology Industry Association (ATIA)
International Seating Symposium (ISS)
National Coalition for Assistive and Rehab Technology (NCART)
National Mobility Equipment Dealers Association (NMEDA)
American Association of People with Disabilities (AAPD)
American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA)
Rehabilitation Engineering and Assistive Technology Society of North America (RESNA)
National Registry of Rehabilitation Technology Suppliers (NRRTS)
National Council on Independent Living (NCIL)
The Gerontological Society of America (GSA)

We also have Gerontology Program Coordinator, Activities Director in a Nursing Home, and Senior Care Specialist jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

Wheelchair. A chair with wheels for a person who cannot walk or has difficulty walking.
Adaptive Equipment. Specialized equipment designed to help people with physical disabilities or limitations to perform daily tasks easier.
Postural Support. Devices designed to support and stabilize the body in a seated position to improve posture and comfort.
Mobility Aids. Devices used to help people move around, such as wheelchairs, scooters, and walkers.
Assistive Technology. Technology designed to enable people with disabilities or functional limitations to participate more easily and independently in everyday activities.
Pressure Mapping. A technique used to measure and map the pressure distribution on a seat surface, often used to make custom seating solutions for people with disabilities.
Ergonomics. The science of designing products and environments to be used safely and efficiently by people.
Accessibility. Making products and environments accessible to people with disabilities, including the elderly.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Seating and Mobility Technician?

A Seating and Mobility Technician is a healthcare professional who specializes in the assessment, selection, fitting, and training of individuals with disabilities in the use of wheelchairs, scooters, and other seating and mobility equipment.

What types of disabilities does a Seating and Mobility Technician work with?

Seating and Mobility Technicians work with people who have a range of physical and cognitive disabilities, such as spinal cord injury, cerebral palsy, multiple sclerosis, traumatic brain injury, muscular dystrophy, and other neurological conditions.

What qualifications are required to become a Seating and Mobility Technician?

To become a Seating and Mobility Technician, one must typically complete an accredited education program and pass a certification exam. In addition, some states may require licensure of Seating and Mobility Technicians.

What are some of the duties of a Seating and Mobility Technician?

The duties of a Seating and Mobility Technician include assessing client needs, providing patient education, selecting the most appropriate mobility device for the individual, fitting the device to the individual's body, and providing training to the individual on how to safely use the device.

What are the benefits of having a Seating and Mobility Technician?

The benefits of having a Seating and Mobility Technician include improved mobility and independence, improved quality of life, improved health outcomes, increased access to physical activities and social activities, and enhanced overall wellbeing.