Article

Long-term care (LTC) residents with cognitive impairments frequently
experience limited mobility and participation in preferred activities. Although a
power wheelchair could mitigate some of these mobility and participation
challenges, this technology is often not prescribed for this population due to
safety concerns. An intelligent power wheelchair (IPW) system represents a
potential intervention that could help to overcome these concerns. The purpose of
this study was to explore a) how residents experienced an IPW that used three
different modes of control and b) what perceived effect the IPW would have on
their daily lives. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We interviewed 10 LTC residents with
mild or moderate cognitive impairment twice, once before and once after testing
the IPW. Interviews were conducted using a semi-structured interview guide, audio
recorded and transcribed verbatim for thematic analyses. RESULTS: Our analyses
identified three overarching themes: (1) the difference an IPW would make, (2)
the potential impact of the IPW on others and (3) IPW-related concerns.
CONCLUSIONS: Findings from this study confirm the need for and potential benefits
of IPW use in LTC. Future studies will involve testing IPW improvements based on
feedback and insights from this study. Implications for rehabilitation
Intelligent power wheelchairs may enhance participation and improve safety and
feelings of well-being for long-term care residents with cognitive impairments.
Intelligent power wheelchairs could potentially have an equally positive impact
on facility staff, other residents, and family and friends by decreasing workload
and increasing safety.

Langue : ANGLAIS