Low-cost powered mobility devices for early mobility training in children with neurodevelopmental disorders: a case series

OBJECTIVE: This prospective case series explored the feasibility and potential functional effects of a low-cost powered mobility device integrated into a physiotherapy training program on participation, trunk control, and quality of life in children with neurodevelopmental disorders. METHODS: Five children aged 4-11 years with limited independent mobility due to neurodevelopmental conditions completed an eight-week training program using a low-cost powered mobility device. Weekly 45-minute sessions focused on joystick use, directional control, and task-oriented navigation. Outcomes included participation (YC-PEM/PEM-CY), trunk control (TCMS), health-related quality of life (PedsQL 4.0), powered mobility learning (ALP 2.0), and user satisfaction (QUEST 2.0), assessed before and after intervention. RESULTS: All participants successfully operated the device and improved powered mobility skills (ALP 2.0: +2.20 ± 0.84). Trunk control improved in most children (TCMS: +6.8 ± 4.4), with variability related to functional abilities and support needs. Participation increased across home, school, and community settings, while the desire for change decreased. Health-related quality of life improved (PedsQL 4.0: +15 ± 13.8), and families reported high satisfaction (QUEST 2.0: 4.46 ± 0.55). CONCLUSIONS: The low-cost powered mobility devices integrated into structured physiotherapy training programmes are feasible and may support participation, environmental exploration, quality of life, powered mobility learning, and opportunities for environmental exploration in children with limited independent mobility. Affordable powered mobility technologies may expand early access to assistive mobility solutions and support functional participation in paediatric physiotherapy contexts.