ARE INDIVIDUAL INTERVIEWS ABOUT PRIORITISED ACTIVITY PROBLEMS RELEVANT IN THE ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY SERVICE DELIVERY PROCESS?

Background: In Denmark simple assistive devices (AD) are mostly granted with a minimum of assessment. Thus it is not certain that the most appropriate AD is granted, and needs of other rehabilitation interventions (RI)... [ view full abstract ]

Background:
In Denmark simple assistive devices (AD) are mostly granted with a minimum of assessment. Thus it is not certain that the most appropriate AD is granted, and needs of other rehabilitation interventions (RI) identified. This study investigates whether using a structured interview for needs’ assessment results in 1) other devices than the ones applied for, and 2) referrals to other RIs. 3) Examines predictors for 1) and 2).

Method:
185 device applicants (median age 80 years) were included. Demographic, health, and intervention data were collected. “The Individually Prioritised Problems Analysis” (IPPA) was used for needs’ assessment (Wessels, 2000). The χ2-test and logistic regression analyses were applied.

Results:
40% got fewer, more, or other types of ADs than they had applied for. Disagreement between applied and granted devices was most likely for applicants of home-modification ADs. 81% were referred to other RIs; most likely rollator applicants.

Conclusion:
Many would not have received an appropriate AD without the IPPA interview, and needs for other RIs would not have been identified. The study does not show, however, whether the IPPA interview results in better outcomes than a minimal assessment.

Application to Practice:
An IPPA interview is relevant as a basis for identification of needs for ADs and RIs among people with disability who apply for simple ADs.

References:
Wessels, R.D. et. al. (2000). IPPA, a user-centred approach to assess effectiveness of Assistive Technology provision. Technology and Disability, 13, pp. 105-15.

Financial support by Helsefonden and The Municipality of Fredericia is gratefully acknowledged.