An application of Organismic Integration Theory to enhance basic psychological needs satisfaction and motivation for rehabilitation in older stroke survivors: A randomized controlled trial study

Abstract

Stroke survivors may experience disability and need long-term post-stroke rehabilitation to maintain optimal functioning. However, rehabilitation may not be sufficiently performed due to lack of motivation. This randomized controlled trial aimed to investigate the effectiveness of the Organismic Integration Theory (OIT)-based program for enhancing basic psychological needs satisfaction and motivation for rehabilitation in older stroke survivors. Participants were 38 older stroke survivors randomly assigned to an experimental group (n=19) receiving the OIT-based program and a control group (n=19) receiving standard care. Data were collected at baseline, and at 1, 4, and 12 weeks after the program ended. Data analysis showed the significantly higher levels of basic psychological satisfaction and motivation for rehabilitation in participants receiving the OIT-based program than those receiving standard care. The findings support the effectiveness of the OIT-based program in enhancing basic psychological satisfaction and motivation for home rehabilitation of older stroke survivors.