The effects of the SmartDrive on fostering participatory opportunities for manual wheelchair users: a qualitative exploration.

Abstract

The objective of this study was to understand the impact of the SmartDrive (SD) on the lived experiences of manual wheelchair users (MWUs) in Edmonton Alberta, Canada. To accomplish this, we conducted individual semi-structured interviews following each study phase on 19 participants (20-70 y) who identified as either full-time or part-time manual wheelchair users, followed by thematic analysis using a hybrid deductive-inductive approach. We identified 3 major themes characterizing participant's experiences with the SmartDrive. (1) Facilitating experiences: Participants were able to access experiences through increased independence which strengthened personal relationships as well as transformed societal perceptions with the use of the SmartDrive. (2) Dimensions of Health: Participants were able to holistically improve their health and wellbeing in physical, emotional, and social realms through opportunities created by the SmartDrive. (3) Actual Value: Participants identified the primary economic barrier concerning the price of the SmartDrive in addition to expenses accumulated through living with a disability. In conclusion, SmartDrive has potential to improve the lived experiences of manual wheelchair users by enabling independent access to participation in order to improve overall health and connections within society, but is restricted by the economic barriers concerning the cost.

Clinical trial registration: This study was registered with clinicaltrials.gov and NCTRC (Registration Number NCT04973059).