The usability of two mobile health assistive technologies for wheelchair-related in-seat movement and pressure

Abstract

Introduction This study aimed to understand the degree to which two different mobile health assistive technologies, AW-Shift© and Sensoria® Mat, addressed seven constructs for managing wheelchair-related in-seat movement and pressure. Methods After using each intervention system, participants answered questions regarding the general usability and usefulness of the systems. Results System Usability Survey scores ranged from 5 (Poor) to 97.5 (Excellent), with a median response of 60.0 (Okay) for AW-Shift© and 76.3 (Good) for Sensoria® Mat. Participants reported using AW-Shift© to check areas of high pressure on their cushion, the quality of their weight shifts, and their posture significantly more often than to check the condition of their cushion or to track their movement goals. Participants reported using Sensoria® Mat to check the quality and number of weight shifts, and their posture significantly more often than to check the condition of their cushion. Conclusions The findings of this study highlight that there is no one-size-fits-all solution and that different subpopulations of wheelchair users may have different needs and preferences. Optimizing the design for specific cohorts or constructs can result in an effective product that consistently provides meaningful and accurate information about behavior and performance.