Boland Pauline, Levack William M M, Graham Fiona P, Perry Meredith A
Can J Occup Ther. 2018 Oct;85(4):297-306. doi: 10.1177/0008417418800834. Epub 2018 Nov 18.
BACKGROUND.: Adaptive equipment (AE) is frequently provided during stroke rehabilitation by occupational therapists.
PURPOSE.: This study aimed to identify the AE that people typically use after a stroke and the outcomes achieved as a result, and to explore people's experiences obtaining and using AE, to inform both practice and policy in this field.
METHOD.: A mixed-methods study, involving a postal questionnaire and interviews, used descriptive statistics and grounded theory to analyze the quantitative and qualitative data, respectively.
FINDINGS.: Questionnaire data ( n = 258) revealed mobility AE was issued most frequently, with increased safety as the primary reported outcome. Interview data ( n = 15) indicated relationships with health professionals and the hospital environment shaped early AE selection and use. Once home, making sense of AE and community participation were more influential.
IMPLICATIONS.: Therapeutic relationships and reflection time are critical to maximize AE use after stroke. Policy and related funding for AE need to prioritize community participation.