An Exploration of Comfort and Discomfort Amongst Children and Young People with Intellectual Disabilities Who Depend on Postural Management Equipment.
BACKGROUND
The natural response to the intrusive bodily sensation is positional change. This study explored how children and young people (CYP) with intellectual disabilities had their comfort needs met when using adaptive positioning equipment.


METHODS
Thirteen qualitative case studies were undertaken. A parent, a teacher/key worker and a therapist for each CYP were interviewed, and daily routines were observed, with selective video recording. Single case and cross case analyses were undertaken.


RESULTS
Attentive caregivers read the behavioural expressions of the CYP and responded reassuringly, safeguarding them from discomforting experiences. Threats to comfort include the restrictive nature of some equipment accessories, positioning errors and procedural stretching.


CONCLUSIONS
The same item of equipment can be both comfortable and uncomfortable. Given the social and interactional world in which the CYP live and learn, it is others who must accept responsibility for ensuring their optimal level of comfort.
Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Northumbria University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK.
Elizabeth A
EA
Lyons
Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Northumbria University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK.|Sport Exercise and Rehabilitation, Northumbria University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK.
Diana E
DE
Jones
School of Healthcare, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK.
Veronica M
VM
Swallow
School of Health in Social Science, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK.
Colin
C
Chandler
D000293:Adolescent; D017028:Caregivers; D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008607:Intellectual Disability; D008297:Male; D010290:Parents; D000070659:Patient Comfort; D011187:Posture; D036301:Qualitative Research; D012656:Self-Help Devices; D055815:Young Adult
adaptive seating; comfort and discomfort; intellectual disabilities; postural management equipment