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.

• Meet Gary Karp, author of the popular book Disability and the Art of Kissing!
  
• Bring your questions to ask the experts
• Learn about neurotechnology
• And more...

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.

Friday, April 9, 2010

12:00pm - 1:00pm
Pediatric Seating and Positioning: Everything to Consider and More
Our Future at Stake: Understanding the Impact of Proposed 2010 Disability-Related Legislation

1:30pm - 2:30pm
Using Intensive PT as a Complementary Treatment for Children with Neuromuscular Disorders
Comprehensive Vehicle Solutions

3:00pm - 4:00pm
Exercise for Anyone with a Disability
Neurotechnology: What Is It and What Are Its Benefits?

Saturday, April 10, 2010

11:00am - 12:00pm
Travel Made Easy: Tips for People with Disabilities
Accessibility in Windows: Making the Computer Easier to Use

12:30pm - 1:30pm
Financial Strategies for Families with Special Needs
Home Modifications – Keep It Simple and Straightforward (KISS)

2:00pm - 3:00pm
Sex on Wheels: Disability & the Art of Kissing
Getting Intense: Treating Cerebral Palsy to Maximize Your Child’s Potential

3:30pm - 4:30pm
Ask the Experts
Integrative Nutrition and Alternative Approaches to Drugs

12:00pm - 1:00pm
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.

Presented by Jay Doherty, OTR, ATP, Clinical Education Manager, Pride Mobility Products Corp.

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.

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 caregivers 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

1:30pm - 2:30pm
Using Intensive PT as a Complementary Treatment for Children with Neuromuscular Disorders
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.

Presented by Michelle Haney, PT, MSPT, Director, Euro-Pēds® National Center for Intensive Pediatric PT

1:30pm - 2:30pm
Comprehensive Vehicle Solutions
If you are seeking vehicle mobility solutions, come to learn the unique process involved with evaluating your capabilities, and selecting and purchasing an automotive transportation solution. This workshop is ideal for first-time buyers and will help you identify the key players in the process and gain valuable resources for available options. The workshop will also review the solution categories of wheelchair accessible vehicles, seating systems, wheelchair and scooter lift options and steering controls.

Presented by Chad Blake, Corporate Sales Manager, Ability Center

3:00pm - 4:00pm
Neurotechnology: What Is It and What Are Its Benefits?
New medical applications have emerged in the world of neurotechnology. Based on published science and engineering of electrical stimulation, this new technology is changing the tools for rehabilitation, assistive technology and promoting wellness for people with disabilities. This session will provide a forum to learn about the latest technologies and how they can be applied to different neurological disorders and diseases. The field of neurotechnology including the principles of electrical stimulation and the growth of applications will be introduced. This will be followed by specific examples of available applications to enhance the therapeutic practices, such as neural rehabilitation, neuromodulation and neural prosthesis. An interactive question and answer session will also include a review of the recent findings in the development of research. Healthcare professionals in attendance will be provided with resources to learn more about neurotechnology applications for their practices and clients.

3:00pm - 4:00pm
Exercise for Anyone with a Disability
Exercise should be an important part of everyone’s lives, but sometimes it is hard to find a time or a place to do so. Come and find out why it is important to have physical activity in your every day life and also how to overcome certain obstacles that may be in your way. Demonstrations will be held and participation is optional.  

Pam Ferris, NCPAD Coordinator/Adaptive Fitness Specialist, Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago

Saturday, April 10, 2010

11:00am - 12:00pm
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 traveling 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 Debra Kerper, Easy Access Travel

11:00am - 12:00pm
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

12:30pm - 1:30pm
Financial Strategies for Families with Special Needs
Living with special needs presents challenges both for the individual and their families. This workshop explores financial considerations and delay. Bottom line: Don’t wait to plan for tomorrow because of the demands you face today. We will discuss entitlement benefits, having income or assets, family caregiver planning, gifts, inheritances and Special Needs Trusts.

Presented by Cynthia Pacheco, Financial Services Professional and Special Care Planner, Michel Financial Group/Mass Mutual

12:30pm - 1:30pm
Home Modifications – Keep It Simple and Straightforward (KISS)
Home modifications can be a significant project but at this workshop you will learn about the many simple solutions that are available. Some “construction” solutions will be discussed, but the overall focus will be on safety, security, and convenience through readily available products in the marketplace. Modifications for many different disabilities will be presented as well as simple construction solutions especially related to bathrooms. All too often the simple solutions are lost - come to this workshop to rediscover an easier approach to your home modifications.

Presented by Michele Ohmes & Maddie
Owner, Michele & Associates and Trainer on Home Modifications

2:00pm - 3:00pm
Sex on Wheels - Disability & the Art of Kissing
True intimacy, growthful relationships and deep sensual experience are absolutely available to people with disabilities, regardless of impairment. In this workshop, we will affirm the innate need and ability to love and be loved in the context of disability. Learn to separate what is about disability and what is about human relationships and their inevitable complexities. Recognize the natural components of adjustment and grief which follow a traumatic loss which impacts sexuality. This informative and frank look at sexuality in the context of disability will shed light on the real nature of pleasure, personal connection and partnership between people who trust and love one another.

Presented by Gary Karp, Author of Disability & The Art of Kissing and Life on Wheels

2:00pm - 3:00pm
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

3:30pm - 4:30pm
Ask the Experts
Presented by a Panel (see details below)

What do you do when facing catastrophic injury? Who is responsible for your injuries? What do you after leaving a hospital? Who will care for you? How will you care for yourself? Who do you turn to for emotional support? Have SSI or IHSS benefits been denied? Have you experienced discriminatory practices under the Americans with Disabilities Act? What do you do if your child requires proper education for his/her special needs? What resources are available to you and how do you find them? How do you get back on your feet and move forward with life? Ask the Experts is a once in a lifetime opportunity to meet experts and trained professionals in various fields. Ask the questions that concern you! Join in an open roundtable discussion, or schedule private meetings, with attorneys, doctors, counselors, therapists, nurses, peer counselors and others who have faced similar problems or  who had the same questions.  This is an event not to be missed!

Panelists:
Niamh Anderson, RN - Clinical Educator, Acute Rehabilitation Unit, Northridge Hospital
Alex Boudov - Disability Rights Law Center
Mayra Fornos - Founder, Fornos Law Firm
Kathleen Loyer - Attorney
Greg Thompson - Executive Director, Personal Assistance Services Counsel of Los Angeles
Stephanie Kaplan, PT, DPT, ATP - Executive Director, Casa Colina
Judy Nahman-Stouffer - EmpowerTech
Kathryn San Martino, PT, ATP, NCS, CLT - Clinical Coordinator and Physical Therapist, Casa Colina Hospital for Rehabilitative Medicine
Mark A. Willits - Attorney, Fornos Law Firm 
Gary Quist, PT - Northridge Hospital

3:30pm - 4:30pm
Integrative Nutrition and Alternative Approaches to Drugs
This presentation will discuss some of the health issues that people with disabilities commonly experience including fatigue, weakness, stiffness, joint and muscle pain, insomnia, obesity, constipation and depression. The presenter will share alternative treatments for preventing and reversing these health issues. Specific effective treatments will be reviewed in detail, including diet, nutrition, use of supplements, natural hormone replacement therapy and lifestyle changes that can improve quality of life. In particular, the presenter will discuss natural methods for treating depression without the use of medication, and will examine the potential dangers of psychiatric drugs. Participants will leave the presentation with information to assist them in choosing natural and safe solutions for a healthy future.

Presented by Allan Sosin, MD, Founder and Medical Director, Institute for Progressive Medicine