Wheelchair Users’ Perceptions of and Experiences With Power Assist Wheels
By Giacobbi, Peter R.; Levy, Charles E.; Dietrich, Frederick D.; Winkler, Sandra Hubbard; Tillman, Mark D.; Chow, John W.; American Journal of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Vol. 89, No. 3, pp. 225-234Publication Date: March 2010
Study assessed wheelchair user’s perceptions of an experiences with power assist wheels (PAWs) using qualitative interview methods. Evaluations were conducted in a laboratory setting with a focus on users’ experiences using PAWs in their naturalistic environments. Participants were 7 women and 13 men ranging in age between 22 and 68 years, the majority of whom used ultralight wheelchairs. Qualitative interviews were conducted before, during, and after use of a PAW. The primary evaluations included wheeling on challenging terrains, performance of novel activities, social and family aspects, fatigue, and pain. These descriptions indicated that most participants perceived positive experiences with the PAWs, including access to new and different activities such as shopping trips or playing outside with the dog. Secondary evaluations indicated that the unit was cumbersome and prohibitive for some participants because of added weight, difficulties with transport in and out of a vehicle, and problems with battery life. Most participants felt that PAWs provided more independence and social opportunities, and 12 of the 20 participants indicated that they would purchase a set.
Published by: Lippincott, Williams, & Wilkins (Website:http://www.lww.com)
Association of Academic Physiatrists (Web Site: http://physiatry.org )
This publication is included in the library of the National Rehabilitation Information Center (NARIC), accession number J58401
