Affiliations: Occupational Therapy, Washington University in St.
Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
Note: [] Corresponding author: David B. Gray, Occupational Therapy and
Neurology, Washington University School of Medicine, Campus Box 8505, 4444
Forest Park Ave, St. Louis, MO 63108, USA. Tel.: +1 314 932 1026; Fax: +1 314
932 1022; E-mail: [email protected]
Abstract: BACKGROUND: Nearly 25% of people with mobility impairments
and limitations who are of working age are employed, yet few studies have
examined their perspectives on their jobs or work environments required to
complete job tasks. OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to describe
the factors that contribute to successful employment for those who use mobility
devices. PARTICIPANTS: A convenience sample of 132 workers who use power
wheelchairs, manual wheelchairs, canes, crutches or walkers. METHOD: Participants completed an online version of the Mobility Device User Work
Survey (MWS). A multivariate analysis and a two-step multiple linear regression
analysis were used. RESULTS: Study participants had few secondary health
conditions that influenced their work. Employee satisfactoriness to their
employers was high. Accessibility of worksites was high. Assistive technologies
were inexpensive, and personal assistance was used infrequently and usually was
unpaid. Co-worker communications were very positive. Flexible work rules and
supportive managers were highly valued. Job satisfaction positively correlated
with accessibility, work tasks, co-worker communication and work support. CONCLUSION: The description of work environments of successfully employed
mobility device users can provide some useful guidance to employers, vocational
rehabilitation (VR) counselors and unemployed mobility device users to balance
employee abilities and preferences with the needs of employers.
Keywords: Successful employment, mobility device users, theory of work adjustment
