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Abstract
Background: Clinician interest in the role of tablet technology in commercially available tablet devices (i.e. iPads) following stroke is rising. Tablets have the potential to encourage engagement in therapeutic activities. We aimed to explore stroke survivor acceptability of and experience of tablet use during the first three months of stroke recovery. Design: A qualitative study using an inductive thematic approach incorporating the process of constant comparison was utilized to collect and analyse data. Setting: Community dwelling stroke survivors in metropolitan Newcastle, New South Wales, Australia. Participants: Twelve stroke survivors (8 male, 4 female; median age of 73 (IQR 58–83) years). Main outcome measures: Qualitative outcomes were participants’ perceptions using in-depth, semi-structured interviews. Results: Participants’ found tablets easy to use and beneficial. Most stroke survivors used the tablet to engage in therapeutic and leisure activities on most days during the three months. Three key themes emerged: (1) Getting established on the iPad: “It just became easier and easier”, (2) Technology as a means for increased stimulation: “Something to keep me interested”, and (3) Personal experiences of access to an iPad: “It’s been very helpful”. Conclusions: Incorporating tablet technology into the delivery of stroke rehabilitation appears to be feasible and acceptable at a patient level. This process has the potential to improve participation in therapeutic and or leisure; however further evaluation towards the impact of tablet technology on patient outcome and quality of life is required.
The use of tablet technology provides a platform to increase the variety and intensity of stroke therapy, both in the hospital setting and following discharge from hospital, facilitating physical, cognitive and social activity.
Stroke survivors experienced increased participation in therapeutic activities, increased socialization and less inactivity and boredom through access to tablet technology.
Tablet technology is feasible and acceptable at a patient level, providing preliminary support for the use of interactive computer devices during stroke recovery.
Implications for Rehabilitation
Declaration of interest
The authors report no conflicts of interest. The authors alone are responsible for the content and writing of this article.
Notes
* Preliminary results were presented at Smart Stroke, Brisbane, Australia, July 28–30.