LAUSR

Introduction/Background Disability is a worldwide health issue and demands for support with assistive technologies, like powered wheelchairs (PW). The purpose of this study is to assess the psychosocial impact of PW on social participation and quality of life of its users. Material and method From May to October 2017, 30 PW users were interviewed using the Quebec User Evaluation of Satisfaction with Assistive Technology (QUEST), the Psychosocial Impact of Assistive Devices Scale (PIADS) and the Activities and Participation Profile related to Mobility (APPM), in addition to some demographic, clinical and powered wheelchair related questions. Descriptive and correlational statistics were performed. Results From the 30 participants sample, 18 were men (60%) and 12 women (40%). The mean age was 40.63, ranging from 23 to 65 years old. Cerebral palsy was the most prevalent diagnosis (37%). All the participant's current PW was being used for at least 1 year. According to the data obtained from APPM, there was an average moderate limitation in social participation, with a mean score of 1.72 (SD = 0.69). The APPM score was negatively correlated with all QUEST scores, meaning the most satisfied users were the ones with a better performance on social participation (with less limitations and, therefore, a lower APPM score). A worst participation profile was noted among the users who use wheelchairs for a longer period. There was no relation between the psychosocial impact of the PW and participation. Conclusion According to our findings, the user's social participation doesn’t seem to be related with the psychosocial impact of the PW. Although, there was an overall positive psychosocial impact of the powered wheelchairs, and, therefore, an increase in the quality of life of the users. Also, higher levels of satisfaction with the PW characteristics and assistance resulted in better participation outcomes.