Stakeholders' perspectives related to the development of a scooter training program

Purpose: To understand the perspectives of various stakeholders on the importance of and issues around scooter training and to identify elements recommended for a new scooter-training program. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was distributed to the past and present scooter users, their caregivers, scooter prescribers and vendors across Canada and internationally. These stakeholders were asked about the importance of scooter training, the training currently provided/available, and the content and format of training they preferred. Results: The majority of stakeholders strongly agreed that scooter training is important to ameliorate skills and increase confidence. Only 25% of scooter users reported receiving training. There was consensus regarding the basic (e.g. on/off switch, control, speeds, battery maintenance) and advanced skills (e.g. completing community errands, using an elevator, public transit, crossing intersections) that should be included in scooter training. Conclusion: Despite its perceived importance, few users reported receiving training, which suggests a large unmet need. The findings of this study lay the groundwork for the development of a scooter training program that is intended to give users the skills to participate safely and confidently in their communities.

• Implications for Rehabilitation

• Respondents indicate that scooter training is important for skill development and self-confidence.

• Reported rates of scooter training are low.

• Respondents recommend that scooter training should occur in clients' homes and communities.

• Consideration of the person and their environment is important to ensure that training meets the needs and abilities of the scooter user.

     

A survey of adult power wheelchair and scooter users

Purpose.?Power wheelchairs and scooters have the potential to increase community participation for people with mobility limitations. However, there are also challenges associated with use. The aims of this study were to investigate the characteristics of adults who use power wheelchairs and scooters, explore the process of power-mobility provision and examine the benefits and challenges of use.

Methods.?A cross-sectional survey design was used to recruit power wheelchair or scooter users, aged over 18 years, or their carer, living in New South Wales, Australia. The survey was distributed by mail and e-mail.

Results.?Two hundred and two usable surveys were returned, 25% were power wheelchair users (median age: 57 years, IQR: 40–69) and 74% were scooter users (mean age: 81 years, IQR: 72–85). Only one-third of users (33%) consulted a health professional prior to purchasing their device. Benefits included increased independence and quality of life. Challenges included environmental barriers and accidents. A sizeable proportion of respondents (21%) reported accidents in the previous year, often resulting in personal injury and damage to their device.

Conclusion.?Power-mobility devices have many benefits for users, but can also have negative outcomes, like accidents resulting in injuries. Further high quality studies need to be conducted to determine whether the positive benefits outweigh the negative outcomes such as accidents and injuries.