Evaluation of a new assistive technology: the StandBar

Abstract

Purpose

Evaluate the potential of a wheelchair assistive technology (StandBar) to promote power wheelchair users’ ability to safely stand independently from their power wheelchair and determine the impact of the device use on psychological well-being for both power wheelchair users and their caregivers.

Materials and methods

A convenience sample of 11 power wheelchair users and caregiver dyads provided study data. Participants included power wheelchair users who were existing StandBar users or currently in training with the StandBar as part of their rehabilitation. Assessments were conducted at baseline and at six-month follow-up and included physiological assessments and functional testing with and without the StandBar. Monthly follow-up phone calls were completed to collect information on adverse events (e.g., falls, hospitalizations, and skin breakdown). A qualitative interview assessed StandBar users’ and caregivers’ perception at six-month follow-up.

Results and conclusions

StandBar use provided power wheelchair users a higher level of independence, confidence, and safety. All participants highly recommended StandBar use to others with similar levels of functional impairment. StandBar use allowed many participants the ability to complete functional tasks that were otherwise not possible without assistance. Qualitative interviews reported improved independence and psychological well-being for StandBar users as well as reduced levels of anxiety and burden of care by caregivers. The StandBar is a cost-effective assistive technology that promotes independence and functionality for power wheelchair users and improves the psychological well-being of users and their caregivers.

Implications for Rehabilitation

• StandBar allows power wheelchair users to:

• Minimize negative effects of immobilization.

• Increase independence for activities of daily living (grooming, hygiene, toileting, transfers) and instrumental activities of daily living (social experiences).

• Improve their quality of life through increasing independence and confidence.

• Reduce need for assistance and corresponding caregiver burden.

Keywords:

• Power wheelchair users
• assistive technology
• passive standing
• assistive device
• standing device
• independence
• quality of life
• caregiver burden

Acknowledgments

The contents of this publication do not represent the views of the Department of Veterans Affairs or the U.S. Government. Thank you to Karl Hayward for his assistance in creation and fabrication of StandBar devices and access to the Clinic.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Additional information

Funding

This work was supported by funding from the Veterans Health Administration, National Center for Patient Safety and the Veterans Hospital and Clinics in the Southeast United States where the research was conducted.