Mobility Aids, Assistive Devices & Accessibility Support
APD manufactures assistive devices such as orthosis – callipers, crutches, etc., and orthosis – artificial limb, etc., at its Bangalore headquarters. Some products such as the special wheelchairs are procured from Motivation UK and other sources. APD distributes 3000-4000 orthosis and donates 600-700 wheelchairs per year.
APD is the first organization to offer custom 3D-printed postural supports to PwDs with issues such as scoliosis. Two prosthetists and orthotists from CMC, Vellore are helping us identify areas of improvement such as cosmetic appearance, weight reduction, etc., to improve the assistive devices.
Program Objective
Make assistive devices and mobility aids accessible and available to underprivileged PwDs, not just those in APD’s network but also walk-ins. Assist public institutions in becoming disabled-friendly.
APD’s Approach
There are four units of Assistive & Adaptive Devices.
PROSTHETICS AND ORTHOTICS CENTRE
This is where orthosis (callipers, crutches, splints, AFOs) and prosthesis (artificial limbs) are manufactured. We cater to the needs of PwDs across programs as well as walk-ins. The centre measures, produces, customizes, and distributes the aids.
In communities, APD conducts camps to identify PwDs in need of mobility aids. After taking measurements, the aid is made at the centre, taken to the community and fitted.
The staff at the centre is trained but not professionally qualified.
WORKSHOP
The workshop is where APD makes rollators, walkers, standing tables, railing for houses, and toilet modifications. We also make petrabikes/retro fitting bikes but in a limited capacity. Right now, we only take orders for walk-ins.
ACCESSIBILITY
Under the RPD Act, 2016, all service providers must ensure accessibility at their premises. APD has its own Accessibility team. Currently, we take work from model schools and make them accessible with ramps, disability-friendly toilets, railings, etc. This service can be extended to other public places. APD can also conduct accessibility audits.
WHEELCHAIRS
APD procures wheelchairs based on need from Motivation, UK. These wheelchairs are customized for rough terrains, use by children, ascending and descending inclines as well as surfaces of any kind. they can be dismantled for ease of transport. Most PwD can operate the wheelchairs independently.
3-D PRINTER
The 3-D printer at APD was a Google and Motivation UK project. When they started the project, they wanted to use it for a value-added service and approached APD. With the 3-D printer, a child with scoliosis (sideways bent spine) can be provided a custom-made postural support. APD is working to use the printer in innovative ways to produce more support and adaptive devices.
