What should I consider when contemplating a propulsion assist device?

Author: Sharon Jang | Reviewer: Jaimie Borisoff | Published: 15 May 2020 | Updated: ~

Prior to obtaining a propulsion assist device, you should always consult your health professional. That said, some factors to consider when deciding whether to invest in an add-on include the following factors:

Upper limb function is required to use these devices. For example, the individual may be responsible for attaching/detaching the device to the wheelchair, and some degree of hand function is needed for operation. Some products do have adapted controls for use by individuals with limited hand function.

The device should facilitate the transportation of the user over surfaces that they frequently travel on, or wish to travel on. Some terrain considerations include indoor travel, outdoor travel, uneven surfaces, soft terrains e.g. grass, and hills.

It is important to take into consideration how a device may impact transferring in and out of a wheelchair. Will it make transfers more difficult?

Transport

If a car is used for transportation, consideration of the weight of the propulsion device should be considered. Will the weight of the propulsion assist device and the wheelchair be manageable to lift into a car? Will the propulsion assist device fit into the car?

Is the device light enough for the user to remove by themselves? Will the weight make manual propulsion more difficult when not in use (e.g. if battery is drained before end of travel)?

Propulsion assist devices require a certain part of a wheelchair to connect to, which may vary between types of wheelchair (e.g., rigid vs folding wheelchairs) and types of add-on. How the device mounts to a wheelchair should be considered, including the user’s capability for performing the attachment/detachment. Additional consideration may be needed if the device is going to be used between different wheelchairs.