Consider fatigue, falls, pain, school/community access and energy conservation before walking is completely lost. Early evaluation allows training and funding time without requiring all-day use.
What this means in real life
Power-wheelchair evaluation should usually begin before walking is completely lost. Increasing falls, inability to keep up over distance, prolonged recovery, pain, missed activities or dependence on adults for mobility are signs that powered mobility may preserve energy and independence. Evaluation, funding, customization and delivery can take many months, so waiting for a crisis creates avoidable confinement.
Introducing a chair does not require all-day use. Many ambulatory children use powered mobility for school corridors, community outings or long days while continuing safe walking at home and during therapy. Early experience also allows the child to learn driving skills and helps the team observe seating needs before urgent decline.
A full evaluation should anticipate growth, posture, pressure relief, transfers, respiratory positioning, arm function, transport and home access. Funding documentation should explain functional limitation and safety, not simply diagnosis.
A practical checklist
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Track falls, fatigue, recovery time and activities missed because of walking distance.
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Request seating-clinic referral while mobility is still partly preserved.
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Begin home, school and vehicle measurements early.
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Trial driving and powered functions with the intended user.
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Submit funding documentation before mobility becomes an emergency.
Questions to bring with you
Use these at the clinic, school meeting, equipment evaluation, program interview or benefits call. Write down the answers and who owns the next step.
- Which situations should use power now, and where is walking still safe?
- What lead time is realistic from evaluation to delivery?
- Which features protect future posture and independence?
- What home or vehicle changes must happen first?
- How will the child practice driving safely?
Important context
Individual needs, eligibility and safety can differ. Confirm the plan with the relevant Duchenne-experienced clinician, therapist, school team or program before acting.
Sources used for this guide
Direct links are included so families can check the original guidance and bring it to qualified professionals.
Content review: July 18, 2026. Medical labels, trials, benefits and programs can change after publication.
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