An observational study on user’s feedback to an innovative multifunctional mobility assistive wheelchair

Improving participation in various activities of life is a central goal of rehabilitation among people with spinal cord injury (SCI). It is observed that wheel chair users reported positive changes in daily activities and improved participation. Clinically, it is important to carefully document the perceived impact of wheelchair on the user’s daily life. There is lack of information regarding the impact of wheelchair on participation and satisfaction level in wheel chair users with SCI. This study is being done to find out the association between assistive device user perceived satisfaction and participation and community integration in people with chronic SCI. The study results may be critical in identifying the extent of association of user satisfaction with participation and community integration in wheelchair bound people with SCI. After using the wheel chair for minimum 4 hours a day for at least 2 weeks, patient, their care givers and medical staff will be given a pre designed and pre tested questionnaire to assess their feedback for the usability of this innovative wheelchair. The questionnaire has 12 items and each item is scored on a 5 point scale [ranging from not satisfied at all (0) to very satisfied (5). Items in the satisfaction with the device domain include dimensions, weight, adjustments, safety, durability, simplicity of use, comfort and effectiveness. The total score was calculated by adding the ratings of the valid responses and divided this sum by number of valid items. The same procedure is followed for device subscale and services subscale scoring.