The objective of this study was to measure how, why, and where the power adjustable seat height (PASH) system of Quantum's iLevel® wheelchairs were used. We instrumented iLevel® power wheelchairs for 24 adults to measure wheelchair occupancy, seat height, in-seat activity level, and bouts of mobility. Participants elevated their wheelchair 3.9 (4.4) (mean (SD)) times per day, including 1.0 (1.6) times per day past 9". Twenty-nine percent of elevation events were transient, lasting < 1 min, while 42% of elevate events lasted >5 minutes. Sixty-seven percent of participants transferred while elevated at least once, typically from heights <5" or >9", and 14 people changed their seat height between the transfer to and from the wheelchair. Twenty-three of 24 participants wheeled while elevated. Finally, in-seat activity level was greater while elevated. For many participants, the PASH system provided a functional benefit on a daily basis. Individuals elevated 4 times per day for activities including transfers, reach, gaze, or mobility. However, 14 participants did not elevate on at least 1 day. Further study is needed to identify the characteristics of people who will benefit most from a PASH system as well as to document the value associated with PASH system use.
Keywords: ecological momentary assessment; elevate; monitoring; reach; transfer; wheelchair.