Using Experience-based Co-design to develop mobile/tablet applications to support a person-centred and empowering stroke rehabilitation

Abstract

Abstract Aim To investigate and describe the process of using Experience-based Co-design (EBCD) to adapt and develop mobile/tablet applications to support a person-centred and empowering stroke rehabilitation. Setting Two cross-sectoral stroke rehabilitation settings in Denmark comprising six rehabilitation units. Participants Stroke survivors (n=23), significant others (n=18), occupational therapists (n=12), physiotherapists (n=9), representative of a patient organization (n=1), application developers (n=3) and researchers (n=2). Method A structured, facilitated EBCD approach comprising six stages was used to co-produce a service that aimed to address the priorities and needs of all relevant end-users. Data were collected by interviews, participant observations, notes on “flip sheets” and written feedback on the content in the apps and on the instruction pages. Data were analyzed descriptively and with a constructivist grounded theory analysis. Results The application platforms “Mit Sygehus” and “Genoptræn.dk” were adapted and new functions were developed to support the needs identified by all end-users. Relevant evidence-based knowledge, person-centred exercises and guidelines using video recordings were the most important among the developed solutions in the applications to support person-centred and empowering stroke rehabilitation. Furthermore, easy, and seamless communication were considered important. Conclusions EBCD facilitated the adaptation and development of applications to support a person-centred and empowering stroke rehabilitation. Participants experienced that their contribution was considered important and valued.