Abstract

Purpose: This exploratory study evaluated the usability and acceptability of two personal electric mobility devices with distinct operational characteristics and examined associations between physical and cognitive function and user experience among community-dwelling older adults.
Methods: Ten community-dwelling older adults participated in a municipal mobility demonstration and evaluated one or both of two personal electric mobility devices: the WHILL Model S, a seated non-pedaling mobility device, and the Yuho Liberta, a four-wheel electric-assist bicycle requiring pedaling. Physical and cognitive function were assessed using the Timed Up and Go (TUG) test, handgrip strength, finger-ring test, and Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE). Usability and acceptability were assessed using a 15-item questionnaire. Between-device differences and associations between participant characteristics and user-experience ratings were explored using the Mann-Whitney U test and effect sizes.
Results: Twelve device evaluations were obtained from 10 participants (WHILL Model S, n = 4, Yuho Liberta, n = 8). Both devices received generally favorable ratings, with no statistically significant between-device differences. Participants with a TUG time < 10 s rated acceleration, speed adjustment, or electric-assist control more favorably than those with a TUG time ≥ 10 s (r = 0.797, p = 0.006), particularly for the Yuho Liberta (r = 0.936, p = 0.008). Conversely, participants with poorer functional mobility tended to report greater future-use intention for the WHILL Model S. Cognitive function, finger-ring test results, and handgrip strength were also associated with specific user-experience ratings.
Conclusion: Both personal electric mobility devices were generally well accepted; however, associations between user characteristics and user experience differed according to functional characteristics and device type. These findings suggest that successful implementation may depend on user-device fit rather than the superiority of a particular device. Assessing individual characteristics and providing opportunities to trial different devices may facilitate appropriate device selection and support continued community mobility and participation.

Keywords:Older adults; Personal electric mobility; Mobility scooter; Assistive technology; Usability; User-device fit and Community mobility

Abbreviations: BMI: Body Mass Index; HGS: Handgrip Strength; MMSE: Mini-Mental State Examination; TUG: Timed Up and Go; QOL: Quality of Life