Experiences of using powered wheelchair or powered scooter and accessibility in housings

Paper i proceeding, 2015

Objective: To describe powered wheelchair (PW) and powered scooter (PS) users' experiences of accessibility and housing adaptions in their homes. Method: A qualitative research approach with focus group methodology was used. Four focus groups were created, with men and women as well as PW and PS users in different groups. Applying a descriptive approach, data were analysed according to the principles described by Krueger and Casey. Findings: With a specific focus on how PW and PS and housing adaptations operate together, the findings of this paper formed two categories: 'Possibility of receiving housing adaptations according to individual needs' and 'Importance of receiving the correct type of PW and PS in relation to individual needs'. Conclusion: It is vital to acknowledge the characteristics and requirements of PW and PS as well as housing adaptations in order to optimize the use of such devices in the home, as a prerequisite for independence, activity and participation. The provision of PW and PS and housing adaptations should be considered and planned simultaneously, applying an explicitly user-centred perspective. Additionally, the collaboration between the different actors involved should be improved.