Permobil research reveals additional benefits of power standing wheelchairs for end users
Mobility manufacturer Permboil has published new research which focuses on the positive impact that power standing wheelchairs provides the end user separate from other non-powered standing devices such as a stander or standing frame.
The manufacturer’s White Paper revealed that many benefits are dependent on the amount of time spent in standing. One added benefit of having standing as part of a power wheelchair is reducing the number of transfers needed throughout a day. This can make access to the standing position faster and require less assistance.
Karin Leire, Vice President Scientific & Medical Affairs, commented: “The standing function has a great impact on the lifelong health and wellness of our users and also to be able to take part in life moments like dancing with a partner.
“Despite the medical, functional and social benefits of standing being clear, it is the solution within the array of power seat functions most under-prescribed or reimbursed. We hope this research and evidence will support individual justification, and in the long run also standard of care.” Karin added.
The results from the survey add unique findings on outcomes that are not commonly reported on in the literature, such as quality of life, with 80 per cent of individuals reporting on a higher quality of life with power standing function compared to without.
Carla Nooijen, Senior Researcher, Scientific & Medical Affairs, added: “The body of evidence from scientific literature on power standing has increased during the last years. We can now start to see the differences between power standing wheelchairs when compared to standing frames and tables.
“The literature reports on many positive effects like off-loading pressure from both the seat and the backrest, improvements in bladder and bowel function, and increased independence. At the same time, we need to take into consideration that some may experience pain while standing or may be self-conscious when standing in front of others.” added Carla.
The White Paper was supported by a series of global webinars for researchers and healthcare professionals with the paper’s authors. Its research combined motion capture data, survey results from 137 individuals and three qualitative interviews to show the connection between therapeutic recommendations, published literature and the lived experience, and looked at how these can inform the clinical decision-making process.
The full White Paper can be found here.
