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Women Veterans and Mobility Aids
Pooja Solanki1, Brad E Dicianno2, Alicia M Koontz2
1Center of Innovation for Complex Chronic Healthcare, Edward Hines, Jr. VA Hospital, Hines, IL.
Archives of Rehabilitation Research and Clinical Translation
|January 1, 2026
Summary
Many women veterans report their mobility assistive technology (MAT) doesn't fully meet needs in daily activities. Improving MAT design and follow-up care is crucial for enhancing their experiences and function.
Area of Science:
- Rehabilitation Engineering
- Health Services Research
- Veterans Health
Background:
- Mobility assistive technology (MAT) is vital for veterans' independence.
- Understanding women veterans' specific needs and experiences with MAT is essential for effective healthcare delivery.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the needs, priorities, preferences, and experiences of women veterans with mobility assistive technology (MAT).
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional online survey was conducted with 700 women veterans (≥18 years) who received MAT from the Veterans Health Administration within the last 5 years.
- The survey collected data on demographics, MAT procurement, evaluation, follow-up, and functional ability in various activities.
Main Results:
- Of 593 analyzed surveys, common MAT included canes (26%), walkers (24%), and wheelchairs (29%).
- MAT inadequately met needs for housework (26%), leisure (22%), and social activities (19%).
- Challenges included device design, limited options, and areas for improvement in follow-up care, despite positive procurement feedback.
Conclusions:
- Approximately 20% of women veterans reported their MAT did not meet all their needs.
- MAT design and provision must consider women veterans' unique requirements, with enhanced education on maintenance.
- Further research is needed to address identified gaps and improve women veterans' MAT experiences and functional outcomes.
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