Article

Clinician interest in the role of tablet technology in commercially
available tablet devices (i.e. iPads) following stroke is rising.
Tablets have
the potential to encourage engagement in therapeutic activities. We aimed to
explore stroke survivor acceptability of and experience of tablet use during the
first three months of stroke recovery. DESIGN: A qualitative study using an
inductive thematic approach incorporating the process of constant comparison was
utilized to collect and analyse data. SETTING: Community dwelling stroke
survivors in metropolitan Newcastle, New South Wales, Australia. PARTICIPANTS:
Twelve stroke survivors (8 male, 4 female; median age of 73 (IQR 58-83) years).
MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Qualitative outcomes were participants' perceptions using
in-depth, semi-structured interviews. RESULTS: Participants' found tablets easy
to use and beneficial. Most stroke survivors used the tablet to engage in
therapeutic and leisure activities on most days during the three months. Three
key themes emerged: (1) Getting established on the iPad: "It just became easier
and easier", (2) Technology as a means for increased stimulation: "Something to
keep me interested", and (3) Personal experiences of access to an iPad: "It's
been very helpful". CONCLUSIONS: Incorporating tablet technology into the
delivery of stroke rehabilitation appears to be feasible and acceptable at a
patient level. This process has the potential to improve participation in
therapeutic and or leisure; however further evaluation towards the impact of
tablet technology on patient outcome and quality of life is required.
Implications for Rehabilitation The use of tablet technology provides a platform
to increase the variety and intensity of stroke therapy, both in the hospital
setting and following discharge from hospital, facilitating physical, cognitive
and social activity. Stroke survivors experienced increased participation in
therapeutic activities, increased socialization and less inactivity and boredom
through access to tablet technology. Tablet technology is feasible and acceptable
at a patient level, providing preliminary support for the use of interactive
computer devices during stroke recovery.

Langue : ANGLAIS