Meaningful occupation with iPads: Experiences of residents and staff in an older person’s mental health setting

Abstract

Introduction This study aimed to explore the experience of staff and residents of mental health residential care facilities, using iPads as a medium to engage in meaningful occupation. Method A mixed method was used, which combined descriptive quantitative and thematic qualitative analysis. The Pan Occupational Paradigm was used as a theoretical framework, to maintain an occupational perspective. Residents participated in semi-structured interviews, and staff completed surveys and participated in a focus group or individual interview. The responses were then coded and analysed for their description of ‘doing’, ‘being’, ‘becoming’ and ‘belonging’ experiences. Findings Analysis found that residents engaged in personally meaningful occupations with the iPads, often with staff facilitation. The study also found that staff and residents responded positively to the iPads, particularly regarding developing positive connections and opportunities for growth and mastery. However, barriers associated with resource availability (particularly hardware and infrastructure) were also identified. Conclusion The use of iPads in these facilities provided opportunities for residents to engage in meaningful occupation, and overcome the occupational limitations inherent in the service setting. iPad use also enabled residents to engage in the community outside the facility.