Article

This study evaluates the effect of electric powered wheelchairs/scooters (PWC/S) on occupational performance,
social participation, health and life
satisfaction. In addition, this study estimates the costs and benefits of PWC/S
and describes users' experiences with the delivery process. METHODS: This
prospective study has a before-and-after design. Postal questionnaires were sent
to 24 first-time PWC/S users before delivery of the PWC/S and 4 months after
delivery. The participants used their PWC/S for outdoor mobility. RESULTS: PWC/S
improved the users' daily lives, their ability to engage in mobility-related
activities and their social participation. For a majority of the users, estimated
independence, feelings of safety and self-esteem increased although overall
health and life satisfaction were not significantly affected. All users thought
that the therapist had considered their needs during the providing process. Most
participants (73%) were satisfied with their device at follow-up. For the 12
users who reported no change in health status between measures, the mean societal
savings based on calculated costs for assistance was euro6227 per person per
year. CONCLUSIONS: PWC/S seems to improve occupational performance, social
participation and life satisfaction for users. Moreover, these improvements seem
to have an economic advantage for both users and society. IMPLICATIONS FOR
REHABILITATION: The use of a PWC/S has been shown to positively affect a person's
independence in daily activities which in turn increases the sense of self-esteem
and security. Facilitating mobility is cost-effective both from a societal as
well as from anindividual perspective and should be a key intervention in rehabilitation.

Langue : ANGLAIS