Exploring the Views of Individuals with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease on the Use of Rollators: A QUALITATIVE STUDY

Alanna Holz, Amanda Bennett, Amber Freethy, Nadia Rossi, Megan Tanzos, Roger Goldstein, Dina Brooks, Samantha Harrison

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    Abstract

    Purpose: Although it has been well documented that the progressive exercise limitation associated with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease can be helped with an assistive device, such as a rollator, many individuals use it infrequently. This study seeks to explore the views of individuals with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease regarding the use of rollators. Methods: A qualitative study design was used. Twelve individuals with moderate to very severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease were recruited from an outpatient pulmonary rehabilitation program to participate in semistructured interviews. Inductive thematic analysis was applied. Results: Analysis revealed 5 themes: (1) "acquiring a rollator" reflecting the process of obtaining a device either via a health care professional or self-referral; (2) "acceptance versus resistance" describing opposing views regarding rollator usage; (3) "rollator roadblocks" describing practical barriers to use; (4) "participation" reflecting how rollators can promote reintegration into society; and (5) "revising perceptions" whereby participants embodied an eventual acceptance of rollators. Conclusion: Rollator acquisition appeared to be a unilateral, prescriptive process. Individuals described initial resistance to use, although in the long-term, negative perceptions were outweighed by the functional and social benefits of rollator use. Encouraging users to participate in deciding whether to use a rollator and providing adequate education on its indications, benefits, barriers, and facilitators are likely to promote optimal use of a rollator.

    Original languageEnglish
    Pages (from-to)49-53
    Number of pages5
    JournalJournal of Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation and Prevention
    Volume38
    Issue number1
    Early online date8 Nov 2017
    DOIs
    Publication statusPublished - 1 Jan 2018

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