Expectations of individuals with neurological conditions from rehabilitation: A mixed-method study of needs

South African Journal of Physiotherapy, 2021 · DOI: 10.4102/sajp.v77i1.1498 · Published: January 15, 2021

Healthcare Neurorehabilitation Research Methodology & Design

Simple Explanation

This research explores what individuals with neurological conditions in Nigeria expect from rehabilitation services. Understanding these expectations can help healthcare providers set realistic and achievable goals for their patients. The study combines surveys and focus group discussions to gather both numerical data and in-depth personal experiences. This approach provides a more complete picture of the rehabilitation needs of this patient population. The findings highlight the importance of addressing not only physical health needs, but also financial, social, and emotional needs to improve the overall well-being of individuals with neurological conditions.

Study Duration

May to August 2017

Participants

105 individuals with neurological conditions and 8 individuals in focus groups

Evidence Level

Not specified

Key Findings

1
Social and recreational activities were identified as the most pressing need among participants, highlighting the importance of community integration and leisure pursuits in their rehabilitation journey.
2
Participants with spinal cord injuries reported the greatest overall needs compared to those with stroke or traumatic brain injury, indicating a higher level of disability and requiring more comprehensive support.
3
A strong correlation was found between the severity of disability and the level of rehabilitation needs expressed by participants, emphasizing the impact of disability on their expectations of rehabilitation.

Research Summary

This study investigated the rehabilitation needs of individuals with neurological conditions (NCs) in Nigeria using a mixed-methods approach, combining a cross-sectional survey and focus group discussions (FGDs). The results indicated that social/recreational needs were the most expressed, and individuals with spinal cord injury (SCI) reported the greatest needs compared to those with stroke and traumatic brain injury (TBI). Disability was a major driver of these expectations. The study concludes that rehabilitation programs should target the expressed needs of each patient cohort and minimize disabilities associated with these conditions, emphasizing the importance of patient-centered care.

Practical Implications

Tailored Rehabilitation Programs

Rehabilitation programs should be designed to address the specific needs and expectations of individuals with different neurological conditions, with a particular focus on social and recreational activities.

Disability-Focused Interventions

Interventions should prioritize minimizing disabilities associated with neurological conditions to improve overall well-being and reduce the burden of care.

Government Support and Policies

Advocacy for government policies that support and protect the rights of people with disabilities is crucial to reduce discrimination and ensure access to necessary resources, including transportation.

Study Limitations

1
Participants were at different stages in their rehabilitation programme.
2
Both components of our study were based on self-reports from participants, and there could be response bias.
3
The generalizability of findings may be limited due to the specific context of Ibadan, Nigeria.

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