Power assist add-ons for adult manual wheelchair users: A scoping review.

Abstract

Manual wheelchairs can promote independence among users. However, the user's level of disability, strength, stamina, and the environmental conditions within which the wheelchair is used may limit manual wheelchair functionality. The use of power assist add-ons may mitigate these limitations and help individuals to age in place. This scoping review analyzes scientific and gray literature to examine the use of power assist add-ons among adults across the life course who use manual wheelchairs, as well as their advantages and limitations in promoting independence and active aging. This review was guided by the PRISMA checklist for scoping reviews, and the Arksey and O'Malley review methodology. The literature search involved a keyword and MeSH search of electronic databases, proceedings, Google, Google Scholar and symposia. Articles were selected based on pre-defined inclusion criteria. Of the 945 unique titles returned, 17 articles were included. PADs such as rear-mounted power assist devices, powered main wheels, and front-end attachments were identified. Power-assist add-ons for manual wheelchairs show promise in improving mobility and reducing exertion for users. However, concerns regarding safety, indoor maneuverability, and user preferences highlight the need for specialized training and retrofitting power assist add-ons, especially among older users.