Experiences of the use of ICT in everyday life among people the first year after stroke

Background: The use of information and communication technology (ICT) including mobile phones, tablets and computers are rapidly increasing and are integrated in people’s everyday activities. The aim for this study is to... [ view full abstract ]

Background:
The use of information and communication technology (ICT) including mobile phones, tablets and computers are rapidly increasing and are integrated in people’s everyday activities. The aim for this study is to identify how persons with stroke 6-12 months after stroke, are using and have integrated ICT in their everyday life.
Method:
To capture the participants experiences 14 individual and one focus group interview were carried out in Denmark and Sweden. The participants consisted of eleven men and seven women in the ages between 41-79 years with mild to moderate stroke. The material were transcribed and analysed using grounded theory.
Results:
The four categories represent areas in everyday life where ICT is being used. Managing daily life: Using ICT is a necessity today for managing daily life. Staying connected: Being able to get in touch with others at all times has become much more important, for both the individuals themselves and their families after the stroke. Fun and entertainment: Entertainment, such as listening to the radio, watching TV, play games and listening to music was a big motivation for starting and continuing the use of ICT. Promoting wellbeing: The participants were aware of the need for rehabilitation after the stroke and performed activities to feel well and improve functions.
Conclusion:
There are great motivations for using ICT after stroke but support and adaptations can be necessary to support everyday life and rehabilitation.
Application to Practice:
This knowledge can be used to help in developing ICT based rehabilitation models after stroke.