Codesigned framework for maximising the therapeutic value of rehabilitation mealtimes

To co-design a framework to maximise the therapeutic value of mealtimes with rehabilitation consumers and staff.

One workshop was held with consumers (n = 5) and multidisciplinary rehabilitation staff (n = 5) utilising Values-Focused Thinking processes. The framework was developed by generating objectives important for delivering a therapeutic mealtime experience, categorised as fundamental (i.e., those that are important in and of themselves) or means (i.e., those that are important for achieving the fundamental objectives). Participants generated objectives based on personal experiences and through synthesising previous research.

Four fundamental objectives were identified: 'provide holistic, practical, caring, and safe experiences', 'share ownership of mealtime imperatives', 'maximise all possible outcomes', and 'enhance rehabilitation'. A total of twenty-three means objectives were identified to support achievement of the fundamental objectives. Five means objectives were linked to all fundamental objectives: 'enable access', 'obtain feedback and monitor', 'identify needs', 'plan the mealtime', and 'provide information'.

This study provides a novel and co-designed framework to support maximising the therapeutic value of mealtimes, based on the values and priorities determined by consumers and staff. Future research should involve utilising the framework in practice and develop guidance for its use.