To Örebro University

Background: Access to a functional wheelchair is crucial for many people with disabilities to fully informants in society and carry out daily activities. Electric wheelchairs and manual wheelchairs are common aids used to increase independence and mobility. Despite, this, there is limited understanding of how individuals who use both types of wheelchairs perceive the differenced in usage. Therefore, this study amins to investigate these experience and highlight both the challenges and benefits associated with the different types of wheelchairs. By sharing the users’ stories, it becomes possible to gain a better understanding of their needs and experiences.

Purpose: The purpose of the study is to describe the experiences of adults using both electric wheelchairs and manual wheelchairs.

Method: Semi-structured interviews were conducted with ten informants. All qualitative data was analyzed using an inductive content analysis.

Results: The results of this study show that the use of both electric and manual wheelchairs was crucial for enabling a functional daily life and routine. Three main categories were identified: The impact of wheelchair use on daily life, where informants experienced increased independence; challenges and obstacles in daily life, which highlights difficulties related to the environment and weather and how these can complicate the use of wheelchairs; and Technical challenges and areas for improvement. Where the need for technical enhancements and adaptations was clearly expressed.

Conclusion: In summary, participants’ experienced that both electric and manual wheelchairs are essential for living an active and independent life. They study indicates that individualized assessments are important, where the occupational therapist works in a client- centered manner to select the most appropriate aids for each individual. It is crucial to consider the individual’s needs, which can assists the occupational therapist in prescribing wheelchairs to ensure optimal fit and improve individual’s participation in society.