Citation

Mandy A, Walton C, Michaelis J. Disabil. Rehabil. Assist. Technol. 2013; 10(2): 108-112.

Affiliation

Clinical Research Centre, University of Brighton , Eastbourne , UK .

Copyright

(Copyright © 2013, Informa - Taylor and Francis Group)

DOI

10.3109/17483107.2013.845612

PMID

24131370

Abstract

Aims: This pilot study measured activities of daily living performance in individuals/participants with hemiplegia propelling both a standard dual handrim Action 3 wheelchair and a standard Action 3 wheelchair with a Neater Uni-Wheelchair kit attachment. The kit consists of a steerable front. Research questions: Does the use of the NUW affect the performance quality of activities of daily living in individuals/participants with hemiplegia. Is there a difference in the motor and process skills during activities of daily living performance, and in the time taken to complete the activities. METHODS: Four individuals/participants with hemiplegia were used in a cross over, repeated measures trial. Assessment of Motor and Process Skills of users undertaking making a bed and laying a table "Swedish style", tasks were measured and time taken to complete each task were recorded. RESULTS: Bed making completion time was quicker in the Neater Uni-wheelchair (p < 0.03). Motor skills were significantly higher than the process ability skills (p < 0.05). CONCLUSION: Activities of daily living tasks in the Neater Uni-wheelchair were completed more efficiently with no loss in quality of motor and process skills performance. This suggests that the Neater Uni-wheelchair is a viable alternative to current one arm drive provision. Implications for Rehabilitation Inappropriate wheelchair provision can result in capacity limitation and poorer quality of ADL motor skill as well-lowered process performance skill. AMPS can help to explain motor and process skill differences in complex activities.

Language: en