Aim: : The aim of this study is to clarify the effect on QOL of the utilization of an electric scooter (Monpal) by elderly people to continue with their participation in social activities, when they find it difficult to walk for a long distance or time. Methods: There were 12 participants, consisting of a physically handicapped person in her 20s, a housewife in her 40s and 10 elderly persons, all of whom agreed to participate in this study. From October to December, 2010 participants were provided with an electric scooter to support their daily activities. QOL was evaluated with the Medical Outcomes Study 36-Item Short-Form Health Survey (SF-36) and the ICF (International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health) Activities and participation dimensions with a semi-structured interview. The results compared the QOL scores from before and after Using Monpal. Results: Although there was a limitation of the study due to the small number of subjects, there was a significant improvement in the ICF Activities and Participation dimensions with Monpal use, but not in SF-36 score, Additionally there was no correlation between the ICF and the SF-36. Conclusion: Monpal can respond to expectations sufficiently as a safe and secure transportation device which maintains the QOL of the elderly. It would be useful to support the establishment of opportunities for activities using Monpal, and with long-term utilization of Monpal, the elderly can expect behavioral changes and an increase in their daily activities
