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Intelligent power wheelchair use in long-term care: potential users' experiences and perceptions
Paula W Rushton1,2, Ben W Mortenson3,4,5, Pooja Viswanathan6,7
1a School of Rehabilitation , Université de Montréal , Montréal , Québec , Canada.
Disability and Rehabilitation. Assistive Technology
|December 17, 2016
Summary
Intelligent power wheelchairs (IPWs) can improve mobility and participation for long-term care residents with cognitive impairments. Residents perceived IPWs as beneficial, though some safety concerns remain for future development.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Rehabilitation Engineering
- Human-Computer Interaction
Background:
- Long-term care (LTC) residents with cognitive impairments often face mobility and participation limitations.
- Traditional power wheelchairs may not be prescribed due to safety concerns in this population.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore LTC residents' experiences with an intelligent power wheelchair (IPW).
- To assess the perceived impact of IPW use on residents' daily lives and activities.
Main Methods:
- Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 10 LTC residents with cognitive impairments.
- Interviews were performed before and after IPW testing and analyzed thematically.
Main Results:
- Three themes emerged: the potential difference an IPW would make, its impact on others, and IPW-related concerns.
- Residents' experiences highlighted the need for and benefits of IPW technology.
Conclusions:
- Intelligent power wheelchairs show potential to enhance participation, safety, and well-being for LTC residents with cognitive impairments.
- IPWs may also benefit facility staff, other residents, and families by reducing workload and improving safety.
