A consumer assessment of women who use wheelchairs

Introduction : Women who use wheelchairs express concerns with current devices that are male-centric and do not address their needs. As women attain more representation in both civilian and military sectors, it is imperative their needs are met to the same degree as those of men. The following assessment analyzes qualitative feedback from groups of women who use wheelchairs or scooters. Information collected may inform a roadmap to address assistive technology needs for women. Methods : Twenty-four women, recruited from two sporting events for Veterans with disabilities, were asked to fill out a survey and partake in a focus group designed to elicit participants' opinions on pros, cons, and areas of need with respect to mobility devices and related services. Demographic data and survey outcomes were analyzed quantitatively, while common themes were identified from the literature and participant perspectives. Results : Survey results indicate a need to customize wheelchair technology to the needs of female users. Focus group data identified four major themes women commonly experience when using assistive technology and related services - usability, service delivery, well-being, and design. Participants raised concerns with customizability, delivery methodology, and empowerment. Discussion : Female wheelchair users described several necessary improvements related to usability, services, quality of life, and innovation that could address gender disparities. Information from this study can be used to influence further research and design. LAY SUMMARY Female Veterans and female athletes with disabilities express concerns with mobility devices that are male-centric and do not address their unique needs. It is important that the needs of women are given the same attention as those of men. The following study asked groups of women who use wheelchairs or scooters, including Veterans and athletes, about their experiences. Twenty-four women, recruited from two sporting events for Veterans with disabilities, were asked to fill out a survey and participate in a focus group where they would discuss their views on mobility aids and related services. There were four major themes women often mentioned when they talked about using their mobility aids: usability (how they like using it), service delivery (how they get help with it), well-being (how they feel), and design (how it looks and works). Participants were concerned about the ability to adjust their device to their needs, how people obtained a device, and how they felt about using the device. Female wheelchair and scooter users recommended several changes to mobility aids that would improve the devices and improve the lives of women who use them.