How do mobility device users integrate their devices into occupational performance? A narrative literature review

Area of Science:

• Occupational Therapy
• Assistive Technology
• Human-Computer Interaction

Background:

• Understanding mobility device integration into occupational performance is crucial for enhancing user participation in daily life.
• Effective assistive technology provision depends on comprehending how users incorporate mobility devices into their routines.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify and synthesize existing literature on the integration of mobility devices into users' occupational performance.
• To explore how individuals with mobility devices incorporate them into various daily activities.

Main Methods:

• A narrative review methodology was employed.
• Systematic searches were conducted across PubMed, CINAHL, PsycINFO, and SocINDEX.
• Six relevant publications were identified and analyzed.

Main Results:

• Mobility devices are integrated into occupational performance in highly individualized ways.
• Users employ mobility devices for a range of occupations extending beyond basic mobility, with seven distinct types identified.
• The integration shapes both the performance of occupations and the utilization of the devices themselves.

Conclusions:

• Mobility device integration is unique to each user, influencing occupational performance and expanding device utility.
• Situational use of mobility devices suggests a transactional perspective is needed for improved assistive technology provision.
• Addressing users' needs and preferences requires a deeper understanding of device integration in daily life.