Assumptions and conceptual contributions to improve the global assistive performance of actual wheelchairs, in order to enhance the users’ autonomy and quality of life

Not specified, Null · DOI: · Published: April 13, 2025

Participation Assistive Technology Rehabilitation

Simple Explanation

The study aims to improve wheelchair designs to enhance autonomy and quality of life for users with disabilities. The optimized wheelchair will be validated through a clinical trial involving 30 patients over one month. The intended wheelchair will be powered, pliable, and allow verticalization, aiming for affordability.

Study Duration

One-month period

Participants

30 paraplegic patients, twenty to sixty years old

Evidence Level

Not specified

Key Findings

1
The study aims to create a wheelchair that is pliable for transport, motorized without significant weight increase, and capable of verticalization.
2
The wheelchair design intends to incorporate back rest equipped with control options allowing back adequacy position and telescopic arm rests.
3
The research will utilize software simulation techniques to optimize functional solutions and prevent non-working designs.

Research Summary

The study focuses on improving wheelchair designs to enhance autonomy and quality of life for individuals with disabilities, particularly those with spinal cord injuries. The improved wheelchair prototype will be powered, pliable, allow for verticalization, and be offered at a comparable or lower price than current models. The validation process involves a clinical trial with 30 patients who will complete questionnaires and assessments to evaluate the wheelchair's impact on their QoL and autonomy.

Practical Implications

Enhanced User Autonomy

The optimized wheelchair aims to provide greater independence and mobility for users.

Improved Quality of Life

The enhanced features, such as verticalization, can improve physiological and psychological well-being.

Cost-Effective Solution

Offering an advanced wheelchair at a reasonable price makes it more accessible to a wider range of users.

Study Limitations

1
The study involves a relatively small sample size of 30 patients.
2
The study duration is limited to one month.
3
The study requires a certain level of cognitive capacity in participants, potentially excluding some users.

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