Article

This study explored therapists' attitudes to and strategies for
developing client-centred approaches in relation to the provision of mobility
devices. METHOD: Four physiotherapists and eight occupational therapists in a
Swedish municipality context were interviewed according to a semi-structured
interview guide. Data collection and analysis were guided by a qualitative
approach, applying manifest content analysis. RESULTS:
The analysis resulted in a
main theme: "Awareness and positive attitudes towards a client-centred approach"
and two sub-themes: "Challenges to a client-centred approach" and "Strategies for
developing a client-centred approach". CONCLUSIONS: Therapists in
municipality-based geriatric rehabilitations are aware of and have ambitions to
apply a client-centred approach in mobility device provision, despite different
kinds of obstacles for client interaction. The examples of different strategies
they suggested to facilitate a client-centred approach can be used to improve
clinical practice. While more research is needed in this field, the results can
be used as a basis for practice development which may increase activity among
older clients. Implications for Rehabilitation The fact that therapists seem
aware of the client's legal right to interact with them in the rehabilitation
process, in relation to the provision of mobility devices, is promising and an
important prerequisite for the development of more client-centred practices. The
identification of different types of obstacles that could interfere with applying
a client-centred approach has the potential to increase the therapists' attention
to such aspects. The results show that it is necessary for practitioners to
develop strategies to be successful in applying a client-centred approach. The
examples provided can serve as a basis for continuing discussions among
practitioners, increasing their awareness of strategies and opportunities for
client interaction.

Langue : ANGLAIS