Exploring Older Adults' Experiences and Perceptions with a Peer-Led Wheelchair Training Program. (June 2020) - Pellichero, Alice
Background: Manual wheelchair (MWC) training is important, but less than 50% of new wheelchair users receive any training. The Wheelchair training Self-efficacy Enhanced for Use (WheelSeeU), a community-based peer-led MWC training program, is feasible and effective for improving wheelchair skills. However, implementing effective programs requires an understanding of stakeholders' experiences. Purpose: Explore older adults' perceptions about their participation in the WheelSeeU program. Method: Qualitative interviews were conducted with participants who completed the WheelSeeU program. Thematic analysis was conducted. Findings: Three themes emerged. 1. Getting my life back described participants' perceived impact of the WheelSeeU program on their lives. 2. I can do it too, implied critical facilitators for success. 3. Social gains, revealed participants' feelings of social inclusion through participation in the program. Implications: Older adults expressed satisfaction and quality of participation with the WheelSeeU program that increased autonomy, improved MWC mobility and self-efficacy, and enhanced social connectedness.