A survey of adult power wheelchair and scooter users

Abstract

Purpose. Power wheelchairs and scooters have the potential to increase community participation for people with mobility limitations. However, there are also challenges associated with use. The aims of this study were to investigate the characteristics of adults who use power wheelchairs and scooters, explore the process of power-mobility provision and examine the benefits and challenges of use.Methods. A cross-sectional survey design was used to recruit power wheelchair or scooter users, aged over 18 years, or their carer, living in New South Wales, Australia. The survey was distributed by mail and e-mail.Results. Two hundred and two usable surveys were returned, 25% were power wheelchair users (median age: 57 years, IQR: 40–69) and 74% were scooter users (mean age: 81 years, IQR: 72–85). Only one-third of users (33%) consulted a health professional prior to purchasing their device. Benefits included increased independence and quality of life. Challenges included environmental barriers and accidents. A sizeable proportion of respondents (21%) reported accidents in the previous year, often resulting in personal injury and damage to their device.Conclusion. Power-mobility devices have many benefits for users, but can also have negative outcomes, like accidents resulting in injuries. Further high quality studies need to be conducted to determine whether the positive benefits outweigh the negative outcomes such as accidents and injuries.