Therapist attitudes and strategies to client-centred approaches in the provision of mobility devices to older clients

Abstract

Purpose: 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 RehabilitationThe 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.