Posts by Thea Johansen

Thea is a Physiotherapist, Techno-Anthropologist, and Product Manager at VELA.

Thea is a highly skilled professional who brings a unique blend of expertise as a licensed physiotherapist and a master’s degree holder in techno-anthropology. As a Product Analyst at VELA, Thea is deeply committed to ensuring that every product is designed with the user’s specific needs in mind, helping individuals achieve greater independence in both home and workplace settings.

An Expert in User-Centered Design and Assistive Technology

Thea's profound understanding of human movement, behavior, and ergonomics positions her as an invaluable asset in shaping VELA’s user-focused product development. By actively engaging with end-users, Thea gathers critical insights from academic and scientific resources as well as real-life users to refine and enhance the design and functionality of assistive technologies. Her work ensures that VELA's solutions not only meet but exceed expectations in terms of comfort, usability, and practicality.

In addition to her hands-on role in product analysis, Thea shares her knowledge through VELA’s blogs and webinars, providing educational resources that help users and professionals alike make the most of assistive technology.

Career Highlights

Licensed Physiotherapist from UCN Aalborg (2012)
Master’s Degree in Techno-Anthropology from Aalborg University (2019)
Extensive experience in the rehabilitation of both children and adults
Specialized expertise in assistive technology

Professional Journey and Passion

Thea’s career began with a focus on rehabilitation in special care environments, working with children and adults who required not only physical therapy but also assistive tools to support their daily lives. Her deep interest in assistive technology emerged as she witnessed how the right solutions could dramatically improve a person’s quality of life.

In her own words:

“I find it very interesting how a disability becomes less invasive with the right tools.”

This perspective drives Thea's dedication to ensuring that VELA’s products empower users to live more independently and comfortably.

Educational Foundation

Thea’s unique combination of practical and academic training gives her a distinct perspective on product development. Her background in physiotherapy provides hands-on experience in rehabilitation, while her studies in techno-anthropology allow her to analyze how technology interacts with the human experience. This dual perspective enables Thea to bridge the gap between technical innovation and human needs effectively.

Thea at VELA

As part of the VELA team, Thea works at the intersection of user research, product analysis, and design innovation. Her work ensures that every product development decision is guided by real-world user data, combining quantitative and qualitative insights to create solutions that truly make a difference.

By aligning her passion for user-centered design with her professional expertise, Thea plays a pivotal role in advancing VELA's mission to improve the lives of people through innovative assistive technology. Whether through her research, analysis, or educational outreach, she is dedicated to creating tools that empower users to live life to its fullest potential.

User Scenarios, Work

Disability in the workplace: Cæcilie’s story

Cæcilie has CP and works in a flexible job with the support of a VELA chair. Read her story and learn how the right support can make it possible.

Personal Stories

How Power Wheels Changed Christel’s life

The VELA chair with Power Wheels gave Christel her freedom back and helps her stay independent, despite rheumatoid arthritis and osteoporosis.

Personal Stories, Bariatrics

Karen’s independent life despite severe obesity

After receiving a VELA Chair for obesity, Karen, who is severely obese and spends 90% of her time in her armchair, has regained her independence.

Guides and Tips

Insights into our seat and backrest design

Introducing our latest VELA seating options - the VELA contour and active seats and backrests, developed by dedicated specialists.

Children

VELA chair for children at school

A VELA Children's Chair improves learning and participation in the classroom. Adaptive seating chairs for children with special needs.

Stroke

Chair for Stroke Patients

Stroke (Apoplexy) can cause disabilities. Regain your independence with a safe and mobile chair for stroke assisted living. Click here for more.

Parkinson's

Parkinson’s

The Parkinson's chair from VELA ensures stability, safety and optimal conditions for people living with Parkinson. Read more here.

Muscular Dystrophy

Muscular dystrophy

A chair for muscular dystrophy can give you more energy, improve mobility and increase your independence. Read more about VELA chairs here.

Multiple Sclerosis

Multiple sclerosis

VELA chairs are good for assisted living with multiple sclerosis. Using a chair from VELA is a great assistive device. Read more.

Leg Amputation

Leg amputation

Leg amputations have a major impact on mobility and balance. A VELA chair for leg amputation gives an optimum recovery. Read more here.

Hemiplegia

The right chair for hemiparesis can make a big difference in everyday life for people in need of rehabilitation due to hemiplegia. Click to read more.