Article

A case study - The use of mobility devices, such as walking sticks and rollators, increases
during the ageing process.
Our aim was to explore how very old single-living
Swedish women experience the use of mobility devices over time, in relation to
everyday occupation. A multiple case study strategy involving quantitative and
qualitative data was used. The findings indicate that the use of mobility
devices, rollators in particular, starts off as support for walking but over time
becomes more involved in occupational performance, resulting in complex
transactions between personal, environmental, and task components. Personal
factors such as ability to adjust and adapt to different situations seem to be
crucial for optimal mobility device use. Strategies and adaptive behavior were
developed over the years while striving for maintained independence and
participation. The use of mobility devices was described as something one has to
accept, but also a constant reminder of your limitations, or as a possibility to
remain active and to manage everyday occupation. The findings stress the need to
adopt a comprehensive view when trying to facilitate everyday occupations in very
old age. Physical, social, psychological aspects, combinations among assistive
devices, and home modification all need to be reflected on and monitored over time.

Langue : ANGLAIS