Interventions aimed at improving the ability to use everyday technology in work after brain injury

ABSTRACT

Objective The aim of this study was to explore and describe how client-centred occupational therapy interventions may support and improve the ability to use everyday technology (ET) in work tasks in people with acquired brain injury (ABI). Method A qualitative, descriptive multiple-case study was designed, and occupation-based interventions were provided to three working-age participants with ABI. Multiple sources were used to collect data throughout the three intervention processes, including assessments, field notes, and interviews. The Canadian Occupational Performance Measure and the Management of Everyday Technology Assessment were administered before the interventions, after the interventions and at a follow-up session 2–3 months subsequent to the interventions. Results The three intervention processes initially consisted of similar actions, but subsequently the actions took on a different focus and intensity for each case. All of the goals in each of the three case processes were achieved, and both perceived and observed abilities to use ET in work tasks improved. Conclusions Client-centred occupational therapy interventions might have the potential to improve the ability to use ET in work tasks in people with ABI.

KEYWORDS:

• Assistive technology
• occupational therapy
• rehabilitation

Acknowledgements

First, the authors would like to extend warm thanks to the participants who generously shared their difficulties in the use of ET at work. They also express their gratitude to the occupational therapists who enabled the study and shared their work with them. The study was supported by Luleå University of Technology and The County Council of Norrbotten.

Disclosure statement

None.