This UBC Master of Occupational Therapy project aims to understand how the OmniCuff device impacts daily activities and independence for people with spinal cord injuries and limited hand function. The OmniCuff is a new device designed to allow individuals with limited hand/grasp function to perform daily activities. This device has only recently been brought to the market, so there is limited research on its usability and functionality. We are doing this study to learn more about users’ experiences and perceptions of the OmniCuff to better understand its impact on independence in everyday activities.
Participation involves trialing the OmniCuff at home for the participant’s chosen activity for 2 weeks and two in-person sessions with the researchers at the participant’s home for OmniCuff training, an interview, and assessments.
Why should you participate?
If you choose to participate in this study, there may or may not be any direct benefits to you. Depending on your experience, you may find that the OmniCuff supports your participation and independence in daily activities. At the end of the study, you will be offered to keep the OmniCuff.
We hope that the information collected in this study will help others understand the application of the OmniCuff in the future.
You may be eligible to participate in this study if you:
- Have difficulty using your hands because of a spinal cord injury
- Have lived with a spinal cord injury for at least 1 year
- Are 19 years of age or older
- Live in the Greater Vancouver area (Vancouver, Richmond, Burnaby, Surrey, Delta, New Westminster)
- Are fluent in English
- Are interested in trialing a new adaptive device and are willing to use it at home for 2 weeks
- Have partial active should (abduction), elbow, and wrist (pronation) movement
You may not be eligible to participate if you:
- Have cognitive impairments that may prevent completion of study measures
- Are unable to understand written and spoken English
- Are unable to verbally communicate your experiences
Time commitment: In total, participation in this study will take between 4-5 hours.
Compensation for participation: Participants will be offered to keep the OmniCuff a the end of the study if completed.
This study will take place at: This study will take place in participant’s home. The researchers will come to your home for both in-person sessions.
For more information or to sign up to participate, please contact study coordinator Taylor Sewell by email.
