Challenges and Strategies for Bathing Among Adults with Mobility Disabilities
Author Information
Author(s): Bhowmick Pallabi, Remillard Elena, Daliparthi Meghana, Shahid Kainat, Rogers Wendy, Rice Ian
Primary Institution: University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
Hypothesis
There is a need for more specificity about the nature of the challenges faced by individuals with mobility disabilities during bathing activities.
Conclusion
The study found that many individuals with mobility disabilities either stopped bathing or required assistance, highlighting the need for better assistive devices.
Supporting Evidence
- 82% of participants either stopped bathing or needed assistance.
- Most participants transitioned to handheld showerheads for better flexibility.
- Concerns were raised about the loss of upper body strength affecting bathing.
Takeaway
Many older adults in wheelchairs find it hard to bathe by themselves, so we need to create better tools to help them stay clean and independent.
Methodology
Two user needs studies were conducted to explore challenges and strategies for bathing among individuals with long-term mobility impairments.
Limitations
The study focused on a subsample of participants and may not represent all individuals with mobility disabilities.
Participant Demographics
Participants were aged 52–86, wheelchair users, and unable to stand due to lower body mobility impairments.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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