The DPQoL is working to develope and evaluate a comprehensive fall prevention program for wheelchair and scooter users with Spinal Cord Injury (SCI) and Multiple Sclerosis (MS) using an innovative and interactive mobile application (iROLL-O+ app). The study is sponsored by Craig H. Neilsen Foundation and NationaL Institute on Disability, Independent Living, and Rehabilitation Research (NIDILRR), and performed by researchers at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.
Previous studies have found that 69% of individuals living with SCI who use wheelchairs and scooters fall at least once in one year period and 75% of individuals with MS experience at least one fall per six months. The program’s aim is to implement an accessible, user-centered, and effective fall education intervention within a mobile environment to decrease fall frequency among individuals who use wheelchairs and scooters living with SCI and MS.
Phase I (completed)
For Phase I of the study, we gathered initial feedback from the target population on various aspects of the app, including its usability, usefulness, aesthetics, and accessibility. This initial input has been integrated into the mock-up version of the app.
Phase II (completed)
For Phase II of the study, participants from the target population used the app to evaluate its usability in-depth. This 9-weeks study would involve:
· Two online assessments, including a set of surveys before and after the education program via the app.
· Orientation session to learn about the program.
· Participation in a 6-week intervention using the mobile app to learn about fall prevention and management + 2 additional weeks using the app on your own.
· Interview to give feedback on the mobile app.
Phase III (ongoing)
Phase III of the study aims to conduct a study on fall prevention and management for people living with SCI and MS who use wheelchairs and scooters to evaluate its usability on a larger scale of population.
If you choose to participate, you will be asked to do:
· Complete online surveys
· Participate in an orientation session to learn about the program
· Participate in a 6-week online fall prevention and management education program
· Track how often you fall for 14 weeks
· Select participants will be asked to participate in an online interview
To participate, you must:
· Are > 18 years old
· Have a diagnosis of SCI or MS
· Use a wheelchair or scooter for most of your mobility
· Able to transfer independently or with moderate or minimal assistance
· Experienced at least one fall in the past 3 years
· Have access to a care partner to assist with the physical skills of the program
· Have access to a smartphone or electronic tablet
· Have access to a stable internet connection
You will be compensated $180 for participation. You may earn an additional $20 if you participate in an interview.
If you are interested in participating, please contact us at: dpqol-lab@illinois.edu or 217-333-4650.