African Journal of Disability, 2017 · DOI: 10.4102/ajod.v6i0.318 · Published: October 20, 2017
This study examines the relationship between wheelchair service provision and wheelchair-use-related outcomes in Kenya and the Philippines. The study surveyed 852 adult basic manual wheelchair users, comparing those who received services with their wheelchairs to those who did not, focusing on daily wheelchair use, falls, outdoor mobility, and activities of daily living. The results showed that certain wheelchair services, such as having the wheelchair fit assessed while the user propelled the wheelchair, were associated with better performance of daily activities in both Kenya and the Philippines.
Training in wheelchair use is related to better wheelchair use outcomes and should be delivered efficiently and equitably, potentially through peer group workshops or community health volunteers.
Assessing the fit of the wheelchair while the user propels the chair is a crucial element of the WHO service package, ensuring the wheelchair is tailored to the user's functional needs.
Efforts should include plans for wheelchair maintenance and repair, including providing user manuals, basic toolkits, and training local artisans to assist with maintenance and repair.