Psychosocial Impact, User Satisfaction, and Caregiver Burden in Mobility Assistive Device Users: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Background: Mobility assistive devices are essential interventions for individuals with mobility limitations. However, high abandonment rates suggest that user satisfaction and psychosocial factors significantly influence device utilization. Understanding these relationships can improve service delivery and patient outcomes.

Objective: This cross-sectional study examined the psychosocial impact, user satisfaction, and caregiver burden in mobility assistive device users, and explored associations between these variables and device utilization patterns.

Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted with 287 mobility assistive device users (walkers, canes, crutches, wheelchairs) and their primary caregivers. The Psychosocial Impact of Assistive Devices Scale (PIADS), Quebec User Evaluation of Satisfaction with Assistive Technology 2.0 (QUEST 2.0), and Caregiver Burden Scale were administered. Descriptive statistics, correlation analyses, and multivariate regression were performed.

Results: Device users (mean age 68.2 ± 12.3 years) reported positive overall psychosocial impact (PIADS total mean 31.2 ± 28.6), with competence dimension most positively affected (mean 12.8 ± 9.4). Overall satisfaction was high (QUEST 2.0 mean 4.1 ± 0.8/5), though 23.7% reported dissatisfaction. Caregiver burden was significantly elevated (Caregiver Burden Scale mean 42.3 ± 15.6), correlating negatively with user psychosocial outcomes (r = -0.34, p < 0.001). Users receiving structured training and follow-up demonstrated significantly higher satisfaction scores and lower device abandonment intentions. Training adequacy emerged as the strongest predictor of positive psychosocial outcomes (β = 0.42, p < 0.001).

Conclusions: Psychosocial factors and user satisfaction significantly influence mobility device utilization. Comprehensive training, follow-up services, and attention to device characteristics are essential for optimizing outcomes. Caregiver support systems warrant concurrent intervention.