Investigation of the Usability of the Dynamic Scaffolding System An Adaptive Mobility Device in Children With Special Needs and Parental Satisfaction

Children with special needs with mobility difficulties use various assistive devices to benefit from the beneficial effects of standing upright and moving. These devices have beneficial effects on improving children's motor skills and increasing their social interaction and participation. In addition, during the use of assistive devices, there are some limitations related to size, weight, usability, mobility, and adaptability to children. Considering these limitations, the Dynamic Scaffolding System (DSS) device was developed. The DSS device aims to position children with moderate to severe mobility impairment vertically (standing and sitting) and to step with support. The aim of the current study was to compare the duration of use of the Dynamic Scaffolding System (DSS) device in children with different levels of motor impairment, to report adverse events during use, and to examine parental satisfaction. One hundred children with special needs (60% cerebral palsy, 40% other diagnoses: genetic, metabolic, neuromuscular diseases) aged between 9 and 108 months (mean 44.94±17.59) and their parents (94% mother, 6% father) who had used the DSS device for at least 6 months were included in the study. Data were collected from the participants via telephone interview. Demographic data such as age, gender, diagnosis, and level of motor impairment were recorded. Children's daily use of the DSS device, any adverse events during use, and parental satisfaction were assessed using the Quebec 2.0 Assistive Technology User Satisfaction Assessment Questionnaire.