A Computer Profile of Mobility Coverage and a Safety Index

Abstract

This article describes a model of mobility and the resulting software program that allows for the quantitative and qualitative evaluation of cane coverage. The software program allows the mobility specialist to input micro-components of an individual's cane technique and a defined environmental situation. The software generates a graphically displayed coverage profile and a safety index (accident probability). Both model and program have broad implications in mobility for practice, research, and policy. Currently, the model is limited to cane-related skills and techniques and does not factor in such concepts as orientation, motivation, reaction time, and use of other senses.