APT4SD IN KENYA
APT is being used as a low cost and sustainable solution to make seating and standing devices for disabled children in Kenya where assistive devices are rarely provided and families cannot access suitable, affordable seats or standing frames. Without these devices children often spend their days lying on the floor or bed. Consequently, they develop painful musculoskeletal deformities, are unable to participate in normal daily life activities and find themselves isolated from their family and wider community.
APT for Social Development works with health care professionals and local organisations to train therapists and community members in APT and establish workshops in Kenya where the therapist and workshop staff can work together to provide children with the needed equipment. Therapists are trained to identify, assess and measure children with disabilities who would benefit and workshop staff are trained to make the device that is designed for each individual child to give them the postural support they need. Alongside the disability equipment, household items and furniture is made, and sold to the public to help sustain the workshop.
APT devices help the child to maintain a comfortable and functional position in either sitting or standing helping to prevent contractures, spinal deformity and can improve digestion, bowel function and maintain skin integrity. The equipment also enables the child to play and communicate with those around them, increasing both the amount and the quality of their participation in home activities, as well as increasing independence, communication and quality of life. Overall APT devices have a positive effect on both the children’s and their families’ lives.
