Respected OT Kate Sheehan to educate with pioneering portable SitnStand solution at OTAC Leeds
Kate Sheehan, Occupational Therapist from The OT Service, will deliver a series of educational seminars at OTAC Leeds for healthcare professionals focusing on safe standing transfers, featuring the new SitnStand Portable Smart Rising Seat.
The seminar – ‘Sitting and standing – supporting purposeful occupation’ – will take place on Stand 09 at the exhibition at the following times: 10:00, 11:30, 13:00, 14:30.
These 15 minute on-stand sessions will allow delegates to critically reflect on their understanding of sitting and standing and the impact on engagement in meaningful activity.
Kate will challenge delegates to consider their clinical reasoning during a standard transfer assessment to evaluate whether it is client centred and holistic. The presentation will look at visitor’s understanding of sitting and standing in the context of supporting engagement in purposeful occupations as well as the role of SitnStand in supporting independence.
Developed by Life Assistance and available through nationwide suppliers, the new SitnStand Portable Smart Rising Seat is a unique solution to a common problem – getting in and out of any chair independently.
Many individuals living with restricted mobility cannot achieve a safe and controlled sit-to-stand without the help of a relative, friend or carer. This results in a detrimental impact on living, especially as independence is compromised both in the home and the wider community.
Historically, rise and recliner chairs have provided a solution in domestic situations and care homes, however these products are static and not portable. This means many lifestyle-based activities outside of the home are not possible – resulting in reduced inclusion, equality and well-being.
Where elderly and disabled individuals do not have the option of manual assistance, the risk of falls and musculoskeletal injury can be high when using a chair independently.
However, the new SitnStand aims to tackle all of these issues by providing a portable, lightweight and rechargeable solution.
The SitnStand Smart Rising Seat is a battery-powered device that fits all chairs. Controlled by two simple buttons on an intuitive hand controller, this ergonomic solution vertically lifts and lowers users in a seated position – hence providing an appropriate sit and stand platform for people with reduced mobility or muscle strength.
Suitable for users with some postural strength, it is the first device that is fully portable, lightweight and to include a rechargeable battery. Specifically designed for people with an aversion to technology, this discreet device facilitates safe standing in multiple situations from restaurants and theatres to hotels.
In the community, it offers the potential for users to avoid relocation from their home to care facilities as independent moving is achievable. Conversely, individuals who have been hospitalised or received rehabilitation could have the opportunity for earlier discharge through support of the SitnStand at home.
Since its worldwide launch at the 2018 OT Show, its revolutionary inclusive benefits have been recognised by many leading therapists, including Kate Sheehan. It is a product that can be highly effective and negate the need for intrusive and permanent home adaptations.
Kate has over 30 years’ experience in occupational therapy and will be conveying her opinions on the new SitnStand at OTAC Leeds.
OTAC Leeds will take place at the Weetwood Hall Estate & Conference Centre in Leeds on the 24th April 2019 from 9am-4pm.
To see the SitnStand in action, you can watch the video below: