Responses to the Acquisition and Use of Power Mobility by Individuals Who Have Multiple Sclerosis and Their Families
By Boss, Terri M.; Finlayson, Marcia; American Journal of Occupational Therapy, Vol. 60, No. 3, pp. 348-358Publication Date: May/June 2006
Study conducted to develop an understanding of family members’ reactions to the acquisition of powered mobility devices by people with multiple sclerosis. Data were obtained via interviews with seen people with multiple sclerosis who were either using or considering powered mobility devices and four of their family members. Three major themes emerged from the data: (1) recognizing the need for powered mobility, which resulted from disease progression and desired capabilities, (2) making a decision and obtaining powered mobility, which resulted from insurance approval and the physical environment, and (3) using powered mobility, which resulted in mixed outcomes. The authors contend that the study revealed an overall lack of resources, as well as issues in family dynamics that had a negative impact on device acquisition. Implications for future research are discussed.
Published by: American Occupational Therapy Association, Inc. (AOTA) (Website:http://www.aota.org)
This publication is included in the library of the National Rehabilitation Information Center (NARIC), accession number J50856
