Occupational therapists' perspectives on an evidence-based, client-centered assistive technology intervention

Area of Science:

• Assistive Technology
• Occupational Therapy
• Rehabilitation Science

Background:

• Client-centered approaches and evidence-based practices are crucial for assistive technology (AT) service delivery and user satisfaction.
• Despite recognized importance, consistent application of client-centered instruments and structured AT models remains a challenge.
• A novel evidence-based, client-centered AT service delivery process was developed and piloted.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore occupational therapists' perspectives on a newly developed evidence-based, client-centered AT intervention.
• To understand the practical application and perceived benefits of the intervention from the therapists' viewpoint.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative study involving focus groups with ten occupational therapists from two Danish municipalities.
• Data analysis employed a hermeneutic approach to interpret therapists' experiences and perceptions.

Main Results:

• Three emergent themes: refined client collaboration, benefits of structured frameworks/instruments, and implementation challenges.
• Therapists reported enhanced collaboration with clients, emphasizing shared responsibility.
• The intervention was perceived as time-efficient in the long run, but inclusivity for clients with cognitive limitations posed challenges.

Conclusions:

• The evidence-based, client-centered AT intervention positively impacted therapist-client collaboration and efficiency.
• Further development is needed to address challenges in providing inclusive AT services for individuals with cognitive impairments.