Driving-forces for home-based reablement; a qualitative study of older adults` experiences

As a result of the aging population, there is growing international interest in the new intervention `reablement´. Reablement is an early and time-limited home-based intervention with emphasis on intensive, goal-orientated... [ view full abstract ]

As a result of the aging population, there is growing international interest in the new intervention `reablement´. Reablement is an early and time-limited home-based intervention with emphasis on intensive, goal-orientated and interdisciplinary rehabilitation for older adults in need of rehabilitation or at risk of functional decline. However, there is little knowledge on the older adults` experiences of the reablement process. The aim of this study was to describe how older adults experienced participation in reablement. Eight older adults participated in semi-structured interviews. A qualitative content analysis was used as the analysis strategy. Four main themes emerged: (1) My willpower is needed, (2) Being with my stuff and my people, (3) The home-trainers are essential for me, and (4) Training is physical exercises, not everyday activities. Driving-forces are intrinsic motivation in interaction with extrinsic motivation. Intrinsic motivation was based on the person`s willpower and responsibility, and extrinsic motivation was strengthened by being in home environment with stuff and people, as well as by the co-operation with the reablement team. The reablement team encouraged and supported the older adults to regain confidence in performing everyday activities as well as participating in the society. Our findings have practical significance for politicians, health care providers and health care professionals. Some persons have special needs of extrinsic motivational support also after the time-limited reablement period is completed. The municipal health and care services need to consider individualised follow-up programmes after the intensive reablement period in order to maintain the achieved skills to perform everyday activities.