Exploring the meaning of a new assistive technology device for older individuals.
Researching the outcomes of assistive technology devices (ATDs) for older clients is important to facilitate clinical decision-making. However, to understand the outcomes associated with ATDs, one must investigate the users' experiences and acknowledge the user as an active participant in diverse social contexts.


OBJECTIVE
To enhance understanding of the users' perspective regarding ATDs, this study aimed to investigate the meaning of the ATD for older individuals still living in their home environment.


METHODS
To provide descriptions of ATD experiences, older individuals who received a new ATD to compensate for their challenges in moving around, assist in self-care or both were recruited for the study. Participants were interviewed twice, with a few months between interviews, about their experience in using their new ATD. The interview transcripts were analyzed in a hermeneutical-phenomenological research approach.


RESULTS
The analysis revealed three recurring themes associated with the description of ATD experiences: "enabling performance and choice", "transformation from requiring assistance to assisting others", and "preparing for the future".


CONCLUSIONS
The results show that ATDs are used to enhance competence, mastery, control, self-worth, hope, and preparedness. The ATD service delivery should be client-centered and the client should be acknowledged as an active participant in producing change.
Department of Health and Care Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Tromsø , Tromsø , Norway and.
Astrid
A
Gramstad
Sissel Lisa
SL
Storli
Torunn
T
Hamran
D000368:Aged; D006233:Persons with Disabilities / Q000523:psychology* / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007407:Interviews as Topic; D008297:Male; D051346:Mobility Limitation; D009664:Norway; D012648:Self Care; D012656:Self-Help Devices / Q000523:psychology*
Community health care; meaning of assistive technology; qualitative research; social context; user experience