The baby boomers and individuals with disabilities are demanding a different approach to aging and, including the ability to stay in their homes as long as possible. However, only one in six homeowners has made modifications that would allow them to be safe and comfortable as they age. **Goals of Aging in Place:** Enhance the quality of life for older adults in their home environment - Allow participation in valued activities - Ensure necessary modifications for those planning to stay in their homes as they age More than 3.6 million people in the United States depend on wheeled mobility devices (wheelchairs or scooters) to perform daily activities (U.S. Census Bureau, 2010). Seating and wheeled mobility (SWM services provided by occupational therapy practitioners include: - Specific positioning equipment - Mobility devices - Durable medical equipment (DME) - Complex rehabilitation technology (CRT) These services aim to optimize clients’ environmental access and their ability to perform daily occupations. Seating systems are designed to meet individual needs for: Postural support and alignment - Skin integrity - Function and safety indicates that equipment like wheelchairs positively impacts the quality of life for individuals with mobility issues (Rehabilitation Engineering Assistive Technology Society of North America, 2011). ** of Occupational Therapy in SWM:** - Occupational therapists utilize a client/environment/occupation perspective. - They assess and recommend complex equipment based on in-depth knowledge of occupational performance and participation. - Practitioners consider the impact of habits, roles, and routines on individuals’ lives. **Key Responsibilities:** - Conduct individualized, holistic evaluations of’ skills and daily living patterns - Identify and address clients’ needs, interests, goals, supports, and barriers to participation - Assess recommend equipment and modifications to enhance accessibility - Provide justification for funding and procurement of necessary equipment - Fit and customize equipment to meet clients’ current and future needs - Assist clients in developing habits and routines that support health and well - Train clients, caregivers, and family members on the safe use of devices - Stay updated on policy changes technological advancements - Measure and adjust outcomes related clients’ health, quality of life, and participation in daily life **Who Can Benefit from SWM Services?** Individuals across the lifespan with various clinical conditions, functional abilities, and mobility goals can benefit from occupational therapy practitioners providing SWM services. Examples include: - Proper seating and positioning in classrooms - Independent mobility for grocery shopping - Customized control systems for power wheelchair users - Systems for pressure redistribution and wound prevention Caregivers and family members also benefit from SWM devices, equipment, and training to assist with caregiving and enhance client and safety. **Where and How Are Services Provided?** Occupational therapy offer SWM services in various settings, including: - Home health - Educational and rehabilitation facilities - Private practice - Community-based settings Referral and documentation requirements may vary with different funding sources and policies. Ideally, occupational therapy practitioners collaborate with a multidisciplinary team, including rehabilitation technology suppliers and other healthcare providers, to ensure the provision of proper equipment.