An intervention of occupational therapy in parasports using the matching person and technology model: A case study

The practice of occupational therapy in parasports aims to improve participation in sports as an occupation, reducing barriers stemming from the environmental factors.

To analyze the process of choice, prescription and follow-up of assistive technology (AT) in competitive adolescent parasports using the theoretical model Matching Person and Technology.

Case study with 3 adolescents from 12 to 18 years old in Bocce and Para-badminton modalities was performed. Characterization Questionnaire; Quebec User Evaluation of Satisfaction with assistive Technology (B-Quest); Assistive Technology Device - Predisposition Assessment (ATD PA-Br); Brazil Criteria and Intervention Report were used.

Level of income was intermediate and low. The AT used were handcrafted by family and coaches. The Psychosocial factors detected were low privacy, autonomy, discomfort and device appearance. Pre-intervention there was dissatisfaction with AT related to the device and the context. Post-intervention, satisfaction scores increased.

The model was a positive guide regarding the intervention of technology in the parasport, directing the participation of the specialist with the parathletes, their family and coaches, in the continuous monitoring of its use. This was key for the satisfaction in using the AT in sports, besides contributing to their occupational performance and maintaining people with disability in parasports, increasing the possibility of adolescents becoming professional para-athletes. Further studies in this area are suggested.