The Master's Level Graduate Research Conference is supported by the Office of Graduate Studies.
This paper attempts to research past studies on the efficacy of wheelchair assessments as well as what therapists consider important factors of a wheelchair assessment. There are approximately 1.7 million people who are considered wheelchair users (Hendershot, 2005). The goal of a wheelchair is to enhance the users’ independent mobility and feelings of well being (Fitzgerald et.al, 2005). When a wheelchair is prescribed that does not fit the person, the wheelchair can have adverse affects and limit function (Di Marco, Russell, & Masters, 2003). There are few standardized wheelchair assessments available for therapists although wheelchair prescription is a common intervention practice. Wheelchairs are important and life changing assistive devices, yet there are numerous studies demonstrating that many clients are dissatisfied with their wheelchair or the prescription process. Although there have been studies that have examined client satisfaction and functional outcomes following wheelchair and assistive technology prescription, there have been few if any studies that examined the critical factors that should be addressed in a wheelchair prescription. The purpose of this study is to identify the factors that are included in a wheelchair assessment to ensure optimal client satisfaction.
| Presenter: | Megan McGowan (Keuka College) -- mmcgowan@keuka.edu |
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| Topic: | Chiropractics/Occupational Therapy - Panel |
| Location: | 125 Hartwell |
| Time: | 10:45 am (Session II) |
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