Estimating power wheelchair electronics lifespan based on real-world data.

Abstract

Introduction: Electronics are crucial to the operation and utility of power wheelchairs (PWCs). Existing research falls short in understanding electronics lifespan, which should inform proper maintenance and funding.

Purpose: This study investigates the lifespan of PWC electronics, aiming to estimate time until repair or replacement and identify contributing factors to variability in lifespan.

Methods: Retrospective data from 1268 group 2 PWCs, collected from the Wheelchair Repair Registry, were analysed using Kaplan-Meier's survival analysis and Cox proportional hazards models.

Results: Results indicate that 29.2% of PWCs experienced electronics-related repairs, with a median survival of 32.2 months. Significant predictors of reduced electronics survival included device type (group 3 hazard ratio (HR), 1.58; p = .003), distribution year in 2017 (HR, 1.82; p < .001) and distribution year in 2018 (HR, 4.08; p < .001). Manufacturer D was a marginally significant factor in reduced survival (HR, 1.66, p = .070).

Conclusion: These findings underscore the importance of proper maintenance and design in enhancing PWC reliability and user quality of life. Future research should expand data inclusivity and consider broader implications for global PWC users.