Exploring the meaning of a new assistive technology device for older individuals. (November 2014)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Gramstad, Astrid; Storli, Sissel Lisa; Hamran, Torunn
• Is Part Of: Disability and rehabilitation. Volume 9:Number 6(2014:Nov.)
• Page Start: 493
• Page End: 498
• Publication Date: 2014-11
• Subjects: Rehabilitation technology -- Periodicals; Self-help devices for people with disabilities -- Periodicals; 617.03
• DOI: 10.3109/17483107.2014.921249
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1748-3107

Abstract

<abstract> <title>Abstract</title> <p>Researching the outcomes of assistive technology devices (ATDs) for older clients is important to facilitate clinical decision-making. However, to understand the outcomes associated with ATDs, one must investigate the users' experiences and acknowledge the user as an active participant in diverse social contexts. <italic>Purpose</italic>: To enhance understanding of the users' perspective regarding ATDs, this study aimed to investigate the meaning of the ATD for older individuals still living in their home environment. <italic>Methods</italic>: To provide descriptions of ATD experiences, older individuals who received a new ATD to compensate for their challenges in moving around, assist in self-care or both were recruited for the study. Participants were interviewed twice, with a few months between interviews, about their experience in using their new ATD. The interview transcripts were analyzed in a hermeneutical–phenomenological research approach. <italic>Results</italic>: The analysis revealed three recurring themes associated with the description of ATD experiences: "enabling performance and choice", "transformation from requiring assistance to assisting others", and "preparing for the future". <italic>Conclusion</italic>: The results show that ATDs are used to enhance competence, mastery, control, self-worth, hope, and preparedness. The ATD service delivery should be client-centered and the client should be acknowledged as an active participant in producing change.<list list-type="bullet"><title>Implications for Rehabilitation</title><list-item><p>Researching outcomes of assistive technology devices are complicated and should involve the user experience.</p></list-item><list-item><p>Assistive technology devices does not have to be used in concrete actions to involve meaning for the user.</p></list-item><list-item><p>Health care professionals should be sensitive towards the meaning dimensions of the assistive technology devices as experienced by the user throughout the service delivery process.</p></list-item></list></p> </abstract>