Propel Physiotherapy had the privilege of participating in the 2022 Abilities Expo in Toronto. For 40 years, the Abilities Expo has been the go-to source for the community of people with disabilities, their families, seniors, veterans and healthcare professionals. Every event opens your eyes to new technologies, new possibilities, new solutions and new opportunities to enrich your life.
While at the Abilities Expo, I had the opportunity to see great innovations in safety and inclusivity for people living with disabilities. For example, there were many new inventions that helped people access motor vehicles. It did not stop at your usual lifts and motorized doors and ramps, some car modifications included fully immersed wheelchair options that provided a user-friendly experience getting into and out of a car while using a wheelchair.
In addition, just across from our booth, there was a safety transfer seat that was meant to help people with disabilities descend tall buildings in case of emergencies. This device scaled the stairs resembling a combination wheelchair and ladder providing stability for the user and the caregiver.
It was also really great to see the organizers demonstrate adapted sports for people living with disabilities. While we were there, they highlighted seated volleyball and modified indoor sledge hockey, in addition to a group exercise class.
It was refreshing to be back in-person at this event and great to see lots of familiar faces and many new ones. It is a great way to bring a community of purpose-driven vendors, networks, and associations together.
As an exhibitor at this year’s event, we were able to highlight our in-clinic, community and home-based services for neurological and complex orthopedic injuries and conditions. In addition, we showcased some of the innovative technology we use, such as the Keeogo assistive device for walking and PoNS™ device for balance and gait deficits.
Key Learnings from Our Clients
At Propel Physiotherapy, we pursue a deep understanding of our clients’ needs in order to personalize services that fit the individual. Participating in events like the Abilities Expo provides us with a unique opportunity to engage with our clients and potential clients in a different setting and gain insights that can improve how we serve them.
As our clients progress through their journey of recovery, so too do their goals, needs, and ambitions. I often speak with one of my clients about their rehabilitation journey and it amazes me how committed he is to leveling up his community participation throughout the year, rain or shine.
At first, it was making sure his wheelchair had the appropriate backrest, seating, and footrests with a lightweight frame and spokes to tackle the day-to-day. Then, as his abilities and ambitions increased, he advocated for his own scooter attachment for his chair so he could be more involved with his family outings and keep up with his kids if they were using bikes or playing outside.
Fast forward to today, and we are in discussion on obtaining an all-terrain vehicle to ensure he can trial camping and get involved with wilderness trails and be more in-tune with nature. This stepwise progression to his equipment was stimulated by his yearly visits to the Abilities Expo.
We’ve learned to adapt our goals in addition to having better (more meaningful and directed) discussions on funding sources to obtain these products. During this process, we’ve also watched our client become a great advocate for himself and others in similar situations.
Key Learnings from Expo Attendees
Here are just a few of the key learnings we’ve picked up from interacting with so many clients and vendors at the Abilities Expo over the years:
- Changing Needs Across a Lifespan: As a person progresses through their rehabilitation journey or finds themselves in a different stage in life, their goals can change—and quite quickly too! This means the tools, products, or services that are appropriate for the client might also change. We have been able to observe that some people’s interests may lie in different areas compared to the first time they were assessed or the first time they visited us at the Expo!
- Importance of Funding: Funding sources for services and products are often a hot topic. Limited funding can really hinder peoples’ abilities to access healthcare at clinics and other rehabilitation centres. It is in the community’s best interest for clinics like Propel Physiotherapy to ensure we are offering some form of complimentary services, education, or a platform for people to interact.
- Advocacy Beyond the Treatment Room: Being an advocate for our clients is part of our clinical scope of practice. We have learned over the years that many of our clients require some professional guidance that extends beyond the clinic walls. For example, providing information on where they can apply for funding for certain products. Or, helping them access a free trial to services so they can make an informed decision. These questions answered professionally and objectively can really make the difference in whether or not a person starts and/or completes a therapeutic journey.
Just like the Abilities Expo, our mission is to enrich the lives of people living with disabilities. Our integrated team of health professionals uses the most current evidence-based techniques to enhance and restore function. Whether you have suffered a stroke or brain injury; been injured in a motor vehicle or workplace accident; or live with a congenital disorder, we can help you maximize your mobility and improve your performance in your daily activities.
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