A $3.5 million Government project is aimed at getting 100 people with progressive conditions including Multiple Sclerosis and Cerebral Palsy, into high-performance power wheelchairs, exploring the benefits of high tech in the disability sector, Disability Issues Minister Louise Upston has announced.<\/p>\n
\u201cThis is a really exciting opportunity for our Disability Support Services team to work with provider Enable New Zealand on a project funded from Budget 2025,\u201d Louise Upston says.<\/p>\n
\u201cIn 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.<\/p>\n
\u201cIt\u2019s a two-year programme, and the Government is really excited to fund meaningful research evaluating social and economic benefits for the disability community.<\/p>\n
\u201cI\u2019m proud that our Government is thinking differently about how technology can improve the lives of disabled people, families and carers. That\u2019s why I asked DSS to consider a project like this, where technology could demonstrably improve outcomes.<\/p>\n
\u201cInternational research shows that having the right wheelchair matters for things like increased independence and mental wellbeing, and broader outcomes such as engagement in education, training, or work. This project aims to test these assumptions in the New Zealand context.<\/p>\n
\u201cEarlier 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.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe 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.<\/p>\n
\u201cUsing disability research innovation \u2018activation mapping\u2019, participants will have their experiences tracked over time to understand intervention impacts.<\/p>\n
\u201cAssistive technology is essential to the wellbeing and social participation of many disabled New Zealanders, and I\u2019m committed to improving access and outcomes for disabled people,\u201d Louise Upston says.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
A $3.5 million Government project is aimed at getting 1 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