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Take advantage of Free Workshops that focus on everything from tips for traveling with a disability and home modifications to the steps to getting the best accessible vehicle. Learn how a wheelchair stander may improve your health and find out how Intensive PT is benefiting children with neuromuscular disorders.
Workshops are FREE and there’s no need to register. Just arrive early to get your seat!
Professionals: Certificates of participation are available. Please see registration following each workshop.
* Please note dates and times of workshops are subject to change without notice.
Abilities Expo is not responsible for the materials or opinions of the speakers.
Workshop Schedule At-A-Glance
Click the title of the session for a full description and information about the presenters. Our convenient planning tool will help you make the most of your workshop experience.
Be sure to check out the schedule of events as well!
Friday, May 21, 2010
12:00pm - 1:00pm
How to Select the Right Vehicle for You
Our Future at Stake: Understanding the Impact of Proposed 2010 Disability-Related Legislation
Neurotechnology: What is available? What is in development? And why you should know?
1:30pm - 2:30pm
Wheelchair Standers: Stand for Function
Trends and Innovations in Assistive Technology
Pediatric Seating and Positioning: Everything to Consider and More (CEUs)
3:00pm - 4:00pm
Accessibility in Windows: Making the Computer Easier to Use
Be Your Own First Responder: Emergency Preparedness for People with Disabilities
Using Intensive PT as a Complementary Treatment for Children with Neuromuscular Disorders
Saturday, May 22, 2010
11:00am - 12:00pm
Beyond Barriers: A Livable Home for All
Getting Intense: Treating Cerebral Palsy to Maximize Your Child’s Potential
Planning for the Future of Your Child or Other Dependent with Special Needs
12:30pm - 1:30pm
Being the Most Effective Parent with a Disability
Travel Made Easy: Tips for People with Disabilities
2:00pm - 3:00pm
Breaking Taboos: Sexuality for Individuals with Disabilities
Financial Planning and Special Needs Trusts for the Special Needs Person you Love
Workshop Descriptions
Friday, May 21, 2010
12:00pm - 1:00pm
How to Select the Right Vehicle for You
This workshop will examine the popular vehicles on the market today and will assist attendees in how to choose a vehicle that will work best for them. Presented by representatives of The Braun Corporation, the workshop will offer an unbiased look at the accessible vehicle options and also includes a local dealer who is knowledgeable about local funding opportunities and vehicle features. Learn how to identify the important criteria to consider in selecting a vehicle to meet your individualized needs. Discover the popular accessibility features on the market today and how they can support your everyday needs. Find out how a mobility consultant can work with you to choose your vehicle. The workshop includes time for questions and answers.
Presented by Brian Harper, NE Area Sales Manager, The Braun Corporation; and Peter Zarba, Sales Manager, Bussani Mobility Team
12:00pm - 1:00pm
Our Future at Stake: Understanding the Impact of Proposed 2010 Disability-Related Legislation
In 2010, it's more vital than ever that people with disabilities understand the legislative issues threatening vital services. Over the past 5 years, power wheelchair funding alone has been cut by nearly 40% in three different legislative rounds that went unknown and unopposed by those with disabilities. In 2010, we face even more legislative threats, and it's imperative that individuals with disabilities, their care givers, and clinicians are educated on the key issues, as well as encouraged to get involved in advocacy to stop the trend toward diminished support services. At this workshop we'll discuss these issues as well as competitive bidding, the Community Choice Act, the trickle-down effect, and how consumers can get involved.
Presented by Mark E. Smith, MA, Consumer Research Manager, Pride Mobility Products;
Madonna Long, Government Affairs Team, Pride Mobility Products
12:00pm - 1:00pm
Neurotechnology: What is available? What is in development? And why you should know?
New medical applications have emerged in the world of neurotechnology. Based on published science and engineering of electrical stimulation, this new field of technology is providing therapists and people with disabilities new tools for rehabilitation, assistive technology and promoting wellness. Learn how using these technologies can improve outcomes for your clients and build efficiencies in your practice. This session will introduce you to the application for different neurological disorders and diseases, provide specific examples to enhance therapeutic practices and review some recent findings in research and development. Discover how cutting edge treatments, devices and therapies may increase independence, reduce long term care costs or accelerate rehabilitation. Attendees will be provided with resources to learn more about neurotechnology applications for your practice and your clients.
Jennifer French, MBA, Executive Director, Neurotechology Network
1:30pm - 2:30pm
Wheelchair Standers: Stand for Function
The RESNA Position Paper on the Application of Wheelchair Standing Devices has heightened awareness of the medical benefits and research supporting wheelchair standers. However, some providers continue to believe that wheelchair standers are not reimbursed. This workshop will analyze this perception and provide encouragement and evidence to fight for the end user’s right to stand up and function! Through the use of case studies and research, attendees will gain practical strategies to assist in the assessment, documentation and appeal process for appropriate standing wheelchairs. Attendees will be able to identify the benefits to integrating a standing feature into a client’s wheelchair base and will understand the purpose of using evidence in justifying the need for wheelchair standing devices. Hands-on learning time with manual and power standing wheelchairs will be provided to demonstrate the innovative advances in this technology.
Presented by Amy Meyer, PT, ATP, Pediatric & Standing Specialist, Permobil Inc.
CONTINUING EDUCATION CREDITS
The University of Pittsburgh is certifying the educational contact hours of this program and by doing so is in no way endorsing any specific content, company, or product. The information presented in this program may represent only a sample of appropriate interventions. (One CEU is equivalent to 10 hours of participation in an organized continuing education activity). Each person should claim only those hours of credit that he or she actually spent in the educational activity. These CEUs are accepted by both RESNA and NRRTS for credentialing purposes.
1:30pm - 2:30pm
Trends and Innovations in Assistive Technology
This workshop will showcase a variety of interesting and innovative advances in assistive technology (AT) through YouTube videos. Many research projects on AT use YouTube to share concepts and ideas. Attendees will see many of these videos and learn about how new discoveries can lead to the AT products of tomorrow.
Presented by Curtis Edmonds, Program Manager, Disability Rights New Jersey - Assistive Technology Advocacy Center
1:30pm - 2:30pm
Pediatric Seating and Positioning: Everything to Consider and More
Working with children requires an entirely different mindset from the traditional way we think of seating and positioning. Children have many different requirements and environments for which the appropriate mobility system must be considered. This course provides an overview of the concepts utilized when dealing with a pediatric client, including seating and positioning considerations, clinical considerations when selecting a power or manual mobility device and types of technology that may need to be integrated into a child’s wheelchair.
Chris Maciborski, MPT, Quantum Specialist, Pride Mobility Products
CONTINUING EDUCATION CREDITS
The University of Pittsburgh is certifying the educational contact hours of this program and by doing so is in no way endorsing any specific content, company, or product. The information presented in this program may represent only a sample of appropriate interventions. (One CEU is equivalent to 10 hours of participation in an organized continuing education activity). Each person should claim only those hours of credit that he or she actually spent in the educational activity. These CEUs are accepted by both RESNA and NRRTS for credentialing purposes.
Approved Provider of Continuing Education with the AOTA (CEUs) -
AOTA does not endorse specific course content, products, or clinical procedures.
Amended Certificates: Please note that the credit hours are offered for a full days attendance. In the event of late arrival and/or early departure, amended certificates indicating the actual number of credit hours earned will be provided by Pride Mobility Products after the session paperwork has been reconciled.
3:00pm - 4:00pm
Accessibility in Windows: Making the Computer Easier to Use
Microsoft Windows 7 includes built-in accessibility settings and programs that make it easier for you to see, hear and use your computer. Microsoft has invested years of research and development to better understand the needs of people who experience a wide range of physical challenges that can impact their computer use. This session will provide an overview and demonstration on the Windows Ease of Access Center, which includes programs like the Magnifier, Narrator, On Screen Keyboard and Speech Recognition.
Presented by Daniel Hubbell, Technical Evangelist, Microsoft Corporation
3:00pm - 4:00pm
Be Your Own First Responder: Emergency Preparedness for People with Disabilities
Disasters can happen at anytime, with or without warning. Discover how to use your skills for managing every day barriers to create a plan for yourself and your family so that you can survive a disaster and sustain yourselves after the event. Learn how to choose whether to shelter-in-place or evacuate, and what practical preparations are needed for each scenario.
Presented by Madonna Long, Managing Editor, Chloe Magazine and Government Affairs Team, Pride Mobility Products
3:00pm - 4:00pm
Using Intensive PT as a Complementary Treatment for Children with Neuromuscular Disorders
Michelle Haney, PT, MSPT, Director, Euro-Pēds National Center for Intensive Pediatric PT
Intensive PT has been emerging as a complementary therapy for children in North America who have non-progressive neuromuscular disorders such as cerebral palsy and spina bifida. The presenter will define what makes "Intensive Pediatric PT" a logical complement to other therapies; give research that supports the intensive approach and how new skills are taught; show video examples of how intensive PT's use the European-inspired clinical tools such as a "Therapy Suit" and the Universal Exercise Unit." Attendees will gain an understanding of European-inspired intensive therapy concepts, specialize tools and their applications as well as the differences between "Intensive PT" and traditional PT.
Saturday, May 22, 2010
11:00am - 12:00pm
Beyond Barriers: A Livable Home for All
This workshop responds to the growing need for information on solutions for an accessible home environment of persons with disabilities and seniors. Attendees will be introduced to the basics of low-cost home modifications and products for universal design.
Presented by Jamie Arasz Prioli, RESNA ATP, Private Practitioner
This workshop is funded through the Assistive Technology Advocacy Center (ATAC) of Disability Rights New Jersey (DRNJ), New Jersey’s federally funded assistive technology project, through a sub-contract with New Jersey’s Department of Labor and Workforce Development.
11:00am - 12:00pm
Getting Intense: Treating Cerebral Palsy to Maximize Your Child’s Potential
Intensive Physical Therapy (PT) maximizes full potentials for children who have cerebral palsy and other gross motor disorders. The presenter will explain “Intensive PT” using video examples and research, specify what makes intensive therapy a good complement to traditional therapy and demonstrate how new skills are created. The presenter will also discuss European-inspired “suit therapy” and the Universal Exercise Unit (UEU). Come to this workshop to discover how this therapy can help children and young adults who have gross motor disorders to attain new skills.
Presented by Michelle Haney, PT, MSPT, Director, Euro-Pēds® National Center for Intensive Pediatric PT
11:00pm - 12:00pm
Planning for the Future of Your Child or Other Dependent with Special Needs
Planning for the future of a child or other dependent is challenging, and when those individuals have special needs it is even more difficult. How will they be cared for when you’re gone? This workshop discusses Special Needs Estate Planning, or “Estate Creation,” especially for families who do not have a substantial personal estate. The presenter, parent of two children with special needs, knows first hand the maze of legal and financial information one must work through to feel confident in a secure future for their child or other dependent. Without proper planning, the dependent’s quality of life could be severely impacted through the loss government benefits. No matter the age or disability, parents and caregivers of dependents with special needs face unusually difficult planning decisions about how to best provide for their loved one’s future. A properly structured and funded plan will help ensure that their dependents can have the quality of life they deserve. Additionally, knowing that they will be provided for can offer the peace of mind to meet today’s challenges. Issues to be addressed will include government benefit eligibility, guardianship/guardianship Ad Litem, Letter of Intent (LOI), financial security, and funding options.
Presented by Douglas A. Vogel, Special Needs Planner, Financial Services Representative, MetLife Center for Special Needs Planning
12:30pm - 1:30pm
Being the Most Effective Parent with a Disability
We all know that living with a disability is a daily challenge in of itself. Factor in all the titles that we choose to hold and we have the makings for a complete disaster … or one blessing after the next depending on the attitude you cultivate. One of those blessings, in disguise sometimes, is parenting. Parenting with or without a disability is one of the most rewarding and the most challenging experiences life has to offer. In this workshop, prepare to unveil the parent you are, maybe the parent you yearn to be, and what it is going to take to get there. This journey into parenthood that you will embark upon with Scott will explore many of the necessary ingredients needed to maximize your efforts as a parent with a disability. They include open and honest communication about everything (including your disability), time management (caring for yourself and others), managing your emotions, digesting the public perception of being a parent with a disability, modeling the success of other parents with disabilities, utilizing others around you, and so much more. If you are a parent with a disability, planning on becoming a parent with a disability, or are simply seeking to learn more about this fascinating topic, this is a workshop you will not want to miss!
Presented by Scott Chesney, International Speaker & Life Coach, Scott Chesney, LLC
12:30pm - 1:30pm
Travel Made Easy: Tips for People with Disabilities
Discover how to expand your life with travel to new places! This workshop will provide you with specific details and how-to’s to make travelling more successful and enjoyable. Attendees will receive detailed recommendations for accessible travel by air, sea and car. Learn what to expect from hotels, rental car companies, cruise lines and the airlines. We will examine the challenges of traveling, methods for addressing them and the current provisions required by the law. The presentation also includes recommendations for disability-friendly destinations!
Presented by Jani Nayar, Society for Accessible Transportation.
2:00pm - 3:00pm
Breaking Taboos: Sexuality for Individuals with Disabilities*
Society believes that individuals with disabilities are asexual, are not appropriate intimate partners, or that having sex with a person with a disability is an exploitative act. Thus, people with disabilities are not educated about their sexuality and are ill-prepared for a sex life. Most education that is offered is designed for individuals with spinal cord injuries (SCI). This workshop will discuss some of the differences about sex for people with congenital disabilities and for those with acquired disabilities. The speaker will also discuss the realities of sexual relationships with a goal to expanding awareness that these relationships are natural and are not a taboo.
Presented by Jamie A. Levin, LMHC, Endless PossAbilities, Inc.
* Please note this workshop is designed for a mature audience.
2:00pm - 3:00pm
Financial Planning and Special Needs Trusts for the Special Needs Person you Love
What happens when your Special Needs Child reaches the age of majority, and government benefits are paid to your child? What is a Special Needs Trust and what does it really provide? Learn how a parent or guardian can make sure that their Special Needs family member has lifetime access to funds for all the lifestyle necessities and pleasures that they deserve, and can still qualify for all benefits they are entitled to receive. Find out how to fund a Lifestyle Guarantee Account and ensure the funds are paid to the Special Peeds Person. The presenters will discuss the need for guardianship and/or conservatorship for special needs family members. A question and answer period is included in this workshop together with a full package of materials.
Presented by Barbara Koppel Kiernan, Lutcf, Special Needs Financial Planning Advisor, MetDESK, MetLife Division of Special Needs Planning; A. Nichole Cipriani, Esq., Elder Law and Special Needs Attorney, Schenck, Price, Smith & King, LLP
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