Evaluation of Conventional and Smart Wheelchair Technologies in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

Abstract

A significant number of people depend on the help of others to facilitate their mobility in wheelchairs. Physical disabilities hinder the mobility of persons with disabilities, making them unable to move around using conventional (manually operated) wheelchairs. Furthermore, people lack the ability to regain an upright posture if the chair falls. This study aims to evaluate conventional and smart wheelchair technologies in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. This study was conducted through a quantitative and cross-sectional research methodology to evaluate the effectiveness of wheelchair technologies in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. This is done by collecting data from wheelchair users, experts, and specialists in this field, such as medical engineers and others familiar with wheelchairs. The evaluation included the opinions of users and experts on the use of traditional and smart chairs in terms of the technologies used, ease of use, advantages, disadvantages, etc. More than 590 users and experts from all regions of the Kingdom participated in the study, and their answers were characterized by objectivity and realism. About 39% of participants indicated that smart wheelchairs are very effective, and 37.6% confirmed that these chairs can be used on many surfaces, while 23.4% expressed their appreciation that smart wheelchairs are useful for various purposes and terrains. On the other hand, the results showed that smart wheelchairs had high purchase and maintenance costs of 37.4%. This was followed by concerns about more maintenance requirements (23.5%), the need for constant charging (20.4%), and the need for users to be aware of energy use (18.7%). The results show some advantages of using traditional wheelchairs, such as low maintenance, lightweight, and often affordability. This type of chair faces many difficulties, such as crossing slopes and long distances, requiring some strength for use, and users needing assistance to move around. The study revealed significant progress in wheelchair technology, especially in smartphones and navigation. Evaluating existing wheelchair technology in Saudi Arabia has shown significant advances, especially in urban areas and healthcare institutions. Motorized electric wheelchairs are becoming increasingly popular due to their ability to enhance users’ mobility. However, the availability of high-end wheelchair models and their accompanying accessories remains limited.