Navigating uncharted territory: a qualitative study of the experience of transitioning to wheelchair use among older adults and their care providers

BMC Geriatrics

Research Article

William C. Miller¹  Edward M. Giesbrecht²  Roberta L. Woodgate³ 

[1] Department of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy, University of British Columbia, T325-2211 Wesbrook Mall, V6T 2B5, Vancouver, BC, Canada;Department of Occupational Therapy, University of Manitoba, R106-771 McDermot Avenue, R3E 0T6, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada;Faculty of Nursing, University of Manitoba, 89 Curry Place, R3T 2N2, Winnipeg, MB, Canada;

关键词: Wheelchair;    Participation;    Training;    Social support;    Confidence;   

DOI  :  10.1186/s12877-015-0092-2

 received in 2014-07-25, accepted in 2015-07-16,  发布年份 2015

来源: Springer

【 摘 要 】

BackgroundAn increasing number of older adults are procuring a wheelchair for mobility; however, the corresponding impact on related injuries, caregiver burden, and participation restriction is concerning. To inform the development of a wheelchair training program, we pursued a clearer understanding of the experience transitioning to wheelchair use for older adult users and their care provider.MethodsSix focus groups were conducted with older experienced wheelchair users (n = 10) and care providers (n = 4). Transcripts were analyzed using a Conventional Content approach; a coding framework enabled inductive theming and summary of the data.ResultsThree themes emerged from the user group: On My Own reflected both limited training and the necessity of venturing out, More Than Meets the Eye addressing barriers to use, and Interdependence between wheelchair users and the ambulatory community. Care provider responses fell into two themes: the All Encompassing impact of assumed responsibilities and Even the Best Laid Plans, where unpredictable and inaccessible environments sabotaged participation.ConclusionsThe transition from ambulatory to wheelchair mobility can feel like uncharted territory. Balanced support and appropriate mentorship are fundamentally important and real-world encounters optimize independence and proficiency with skills. The impact on care providers is extensive, highlighting the importance of skills training.

【 授权许可】

CC BY   
© Giesbrecht et al. 2015