Everyday use of power adjustable seat height (PASH) systems

Abstract

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.