Affiliations: [a] Human Engineering Research Laboratories, VA Pittsburgh Healthcare System, Pittsburgh, PA, USA | [b] Departments of Rehabilitation Science & Technology, Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, and Bioengineering, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA | [x] P.O. Box 980661, Richmond, VA 23298, USA, Tel.: +1 804 828 4233; Fax: +1 804 828 5074; E-mail: wmckinle@hsc.vcu.edu | [y] Virginia Commonwealth University, MCV Campus, PO Box 980677, Richmond, VA 23298-0677, USA, Tel.: +1 804 828 5401; Fax: +1 804 828 6340; E-mail: mameade@vcu.edu
Correspondence:
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Address for correspondence: Rory A. Cooper, Ph.D., Human Engineering Research Laboratories (151-R1), 7180 Highland Drive, VA Pittsburgh Healthcare System, Pittsburgh, PA 15206, USA. Tel.: +1 412 365 4850; Fax: +1 412 365 4858; E-mail: rcooper+@pitt.edu E-mail: rcooper+@pitt.edu
Abstract: The INDEPENDENCE™ 3000 IBOT™ Transporter (IBOT™) is an electronically stabilizing device for people with disabilities. The purpose of this study was to collect qualitative data on the potential for the IBOT™ to improve employment satisfaction of veterans who use wheelchairs to work. This study was based upon observations by trained clinicians, and responses to a survey completed by four men with traumatic spinal cord injury, who worked in an office environment. The mean age of the subjects was 52 ± 8.8 years. The subjects used the devices to hold eye-level discussions with colleagues, climb stairs, ascend steep ramps, and negotiate curbs. When subjects were asked to rate the ease of getting around in the IBOT™ compared to their personal wheelchairs, they responded with a mean of 6.7 ± 1.8 on a 10-point visual analog scale. The response to rating the overall function of the IBOTTM within their working environment yielded a rating of 6.0 ± 2.8. Half of the users felt that the IBOT™ would help them at work and all thought it should be made available to veterans who use wheelchairs. A larger study should be conducted to determine if the IBOT™ affects work performance and the ability to return to work.
