title: The role of assistive technology in self-perceived participation.
abstract: The aim of this study was to develop an understanding of how assistive technology (AT) contributes to self-perceived participation for individuals with spinal cord injuries and to propose a revised definition of AT in light of the findings. A grounded theory study of 19 adults with spinal cord injuries was conducted. Participants engaged in individual in-depth interviews and took photographs of the role of AT in their own environments. Analysis consisted of an inductive process of constant comparison. Participants attended a follow-up focus group intended to verify and contribute to the credibility of the findings. The primary theme identified was AT as a means to participation. Three categories served to identify the decision-making processes that individuals underwent to select AT that would promote positive participation experiences: inclusion versus autonomy and accomplishment, availability and cost and contexts of use. A new definition of AT was proposed; this definition identifies AT as a means to enable occupation, emphasizes the relevance of the environment and highlights the importance placed on self-perceived participation. AT recommendations must be based on a thorough understanding of the role that AT plays in the lives of clients. Future research will further develop and validate the definition proposed in this study.
authors.affiliation: Department of Occupational Therapy, University of Manitoba, R131-771 McDermot Avenue, Winnipeg, MB R3E 0T6, Canada. ripatj@cc.umanitoba.ca
authors.forename: Jacquie D
authors.initials: JD
authors.lastname: Ripat
authors.forename: Roberta L
authors.initials: RL
authors.lastname: Woodgate
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D006233:Persons with Disabilities / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D005260:Female; D017144:Focus Groups; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D012656:Self-Help Devices; D013119:Spinal Cord Injuries / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D055815:Young Adult