Experiences among older persons using mobility devices

Objectives. The aim of the study was to investigate older persons' experiences of using mobility devices. Methods. In this qualitative study, focus group interviews were carried out with participants living in two municipalities in the south of Sweden. Occupational therapists and physiotherapists identified interested participants, 65 years or older. A total of 22 persons participated once in the seven focus group interviews that were arranged. Results. Five main categories of participant experiences emerged from the data: ‘Municipal supply and non-supply of devices’, ‘Acceptance or non-acceptance of mobility devices’, ‘Different use of mobility devices supports everyday and social activities’, ‘Different kinds of obstacles constrain everyday and social activities’ and ‘Adaptive strategies in order to use mobility devices’. Conclusion. Since the participants experienced non-acceptance and obstacles related to the use of mobility devices, this highlights the needs for quality development concerning more efficient data-collecting in community-based rehabilitation.

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