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This paper explores how neoliberal ideologies inform both social and political agendas that influence how social workers can provide support to trans and gender diverse people attempting to access gender-affirming healthcare, using an analysis of social workers' experiences working in mental health in Nova Scotia, Canada. Qualitative semi-structured interviews provide a perspective of the experiences of social workers in Nova Scotia and how their ability to provide mental health services to trans and gender diverse people is impacted by neoliberalism. Most social workers attributed the structural context of working within a bio-medical system as contributing to social workers being disempowered, undermined, and not able to practice according to the values of their profession thus limiting their ability to provide affirming mental health supports to trans and gender diverse people in ways that align with their social work professional ethics and values. Through examining how neoliberal ideologies create notions of ideal social citizens by controlling the body, the paper explores how lived experience of neoliberal practices in mental health social work reinforce transnormativity. This paper highlights the necessity for social workers to resist dominant neoliberal and medicalized discourses which serve as mechanisms of power and control. The paper concludes with recommendations for social work practice with trans and gender diverse populations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents a review of the existing qualitative research literature concerning people's experience of communicating using augmentative and alternative communication (AAC). The aims of conducting this review were to find out more about the values and outcomes that are important to people about the AAC they use to support their communication. This review was conducted to provide a deeper understanding of these experiences to inform the development of a patient-reported outcome measure (PROM). A qualitative evidence synthesis of existing qualitative research literature was undertaken to explore and appraise current knowledge about the experiences of people who use AAC. From 115 qualitative research reports 19 papers were identified that responded directly to the research question and aims of the review. Data were identified that could be organized within an a priori framework consisting of the constructs of values, outcomes, and context. The review has resulted in a deeper, analytical understanding of the experiences of people who require AAC. The results indicate a set of concepts that can be used to inform the development of a PROM. A PROM can be used to assist clinicians and researchers to better understand the perspectives of people who require AAC and evaluate interventions. The results also encourage professionals to reconsider the terminology and methods used when working alongside people who require AAC and to reflect on the multidimensional factors that influence people's experience of communication. Patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) can be useful tools to support clinician-patient communication, facilitate shared decision making and establish priorities for rehabilitation. It can be difficult to engage people who have complex communication difficulties in decisions about the important outcomes to them from using augmentative and alternative communication (AAC). This qualitative evidence synthesis provides a deeper understanding of the experiences and perspectives of people who use AAC. The results will be used to inform the development of a PROM which can be used to facilitate shared decision-making, and evaluate AAC interventions from the perspective of the people who use these technologies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Drug overdose deaths in Texas have been accelerating in recent years with an increase of 33% in the 12 months leading up to December 2020. Accurate counts of nonfatal overdoses – including associated aspects of overdose, such as substances involved, demographic information, and reversal agents administered is critical to increase timely and adequate response to individuals and communities in need. Methods: Twenty semi-structured interviews were conducted with harm reduction workers across four Texas counties to understand existing methods of reporting overdoses, naloxone dissemination/administration, and recommendations for improving overdose surveillance. Interviews were transcribed and emergent themes were identified based on the a priori research goals. Results: Findings highlighted a variety of overdose data collection methods and tools among harm reduction organizations including Excel spreadsheet, web-based TONI application, notes on personal cell phones, and paper notes. Types of overdose data collected varied widely. Participants noted existing methods are suboptimal and that there is a need for a unified, statewide reporting system to improve overdose data capture. Participants also highlighted that overdose surveillance should include "hidden populations" of people who use drugs that are not currently counted in surveillance methods as a result of not interacting with the healthcare system. Conclusions: Texas lacks a unified overdose reporting system to capture critical data to inform overdose response and prevention efforts. Nontraditional reporters may be critical toward improving overdose syndromic efforts and capturing data among hard-to-reach populations. Harm reduction organizations are uniquely positioned to facilitate reporting among community gatekeepers and people who use drugs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper synthesises critique from Māori patients with Bipolar Disorder (BD) and their whānau to identify barriers and propose changes to improve the structure and function of the New Zealand mental health system. A qualitative Kaupapa Māori Research methodology was used. Twenty-four semi-structured interviews were completed with Māori patients with BD and members of their whānau. Structural, descriptive and pattern coding was completed using an adapted cultural competence framework to organise and analyse the data. Three key themes identified the impact of structural features of the New Zealand mental health system on health equity for Māori with BD. Themes involved the accessibility, delivery and scope of the current health system, and described how structural features influenced the quality, utility and availability of BD services for Māori patients and whānau. Structural barriers in the existing design, and potential changes to improve the accessibility, delivery and scope of BD services for Māori, were proposed including a redesign of operational, environmental, staffing, and navigation points (information, transition, fatigue) to better meet the needs of Māori with BD. A commitment to equity when implementing structural change is needed, including ongoing evaluation and refinement. This paper provides specific recommendations that should be considered in health service redesign to ensure the New Zealand mental health system meets the needs of Māori patients with BD and their whānau. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Perceptions and experiences of midwives regarding structural empowerment during practice in Saudi Arabia were explored using a qualitative, constructive, descriptive design. Data was gathered using individual semi-structured interviews with ten midwives employed in delivery rooms, and prenatal and postnatal units of governmental hospitals in Saudi Arabia's eastern province. Data was analyzed with assistance of NVivo software, Version 12. Five themes emerged from our study: the meaning of structural empowerment, ambiguous hospital policies, the insufficient numbers of midwives, midwife-physician dynamics, and continuing education and training. Structural empowerment of midwives in maternity units may be useful in improving midwifery services in Saudi Arabia and worldwide. ACCESSIBLE SUMMARY: What is the further research? Further studies on this topic should expand the current study's sample and include participants from more regions of Saudi Arabia. In addition, research on the psychological empowerment of midwives is needed. What is known on the subject? Midwives are educated to care for women during pregnancy, birth, and postnatal, and midwives must be empowered to fulfill this professional role. The evidence showed the importance of structural empowerment for midwives to perform their professional function and provide quality care for women during pregnancy, birth, and postnatal. What does this paper add to existing knowledge? In Saudi Arabia, there is little research evidence on how to explore the perceptions and experiences of structural empowerment among midwives. Our study provided valuable recommendations for identifying environmental practices, positive workplace characteristics, and promoting higher-quality midwifery in the workplace. What are the implications for practice? Midwife workplace empowerment is correlated with the quality of care, job satisfaction, staff effectiveness, and the positivity of the work environment. The results of this study suggest that every healthcare organization must work to bring about structural empowerment for midwives to facilitate successful practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fun and social affiliation are good predictors of long-term intention to use game-based interventions including those for motivating physical activity, yet current player matching algorithms are poor at facilitating social connectedness. In this paper, we report on the results of a study investigating how different player traits are associated with interest in social features of an exercise game for improving player experience through better player matching using common and complementary characteristics. Twelve conceptual scenarios were illustrated using storyboards and data was collected from 196 respondents who rated their attitudes and preferences towards gamification elements. Correlational results showed that all scenarios, except for cutting corners, were perceived as persuasive, enjoyable, engaging and are likely to increase future exercise intention for players who score high on Philanthropist- and Socialiser-oriented traits. Results also showed that many players favour the altruistic donation feature. Furthermore, qualitative results underscore that it is the player's partner that matters more than the players' personalities. We conclude with practical recommendations for designing more personalised exercise games that can include more socially engaging game mechanics in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is much discussion in the literature regarding the role public child welfare has played in disproportionately intervening with children and families of color, and debate regarding how this has impacted their wellbeing and the role systemic racism has played. The voice of individuals serving as regional and state-level administrators of public child welfare agencies regarding this topic and how to address existing inequities has been missing in this dialogue. This paper reports on semi-structured interviews conducted with sixteen such administrators regarding where they have observed these issues in their agencies and a wide array of strategies they believe have the best likelihood of promoting racial equity and antiracist practice in the child welfare system, with some describing approaches currently being implemented. Participants discussed what they need from community and university partners to support this work. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Assistive technologies have allowed people with disabilities to perform daily tasks with greater independence and autonomy, especially for visually impaired people. Using smart home solutions allows these users to control their homes with less cognitive and physical demand. However, making such applications accessible to meet the needs of visually impaired users, especially in developing countries, remains a challenge. This paper investigates the perceptions of these users about home automation technologies through semi-structured interviews. A total of 20 visually impaired people participated in the interviews. A thematic analysis revealed results concerning the following themes: (1) how people go about their lives at home and around, how people interact with current appliances, objects and environments, (3) how people perceive their attitude to technologies, (4) the Brazilian context of smart homes, (5) what people think smart homes should do and (6) envisaging ways of interacting with smart home systems. The results obtained provide significant insight into the needs of visually-impaired people in Brazil, with analysis of issues that are common with previous studies in more developed countries and specific issues that have important particularities and implications in Brazil and other developing countries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper discusses the extent to which collaborative peer observation of teaching (POT) as a process for teacher professional development could enhance collegiality and collaboration among academics. A single case study was conducted to investigate academics' perceptions of their POT experience in the Vietnamese context. Purposive sampling was applied to select eleven academics at a university. Data was collected through semi-structured interviews with individual participants and inductively thematically analysed. The findings show that reciprocal POT and collaborative discourse were perceived to nurture collegiality and collaboration between peers and facilitate their reflection and learning about teaching. Eight participants reported that POT made their peer relationships develop to a collegial relationship due to mutual trust and respect. However, there existed concerns in the peer relationship perceived by three other academics who did not develop collegiality. These findings suggest that to promote academics' willingness and quality engagement in POT, it is necessary to allow academics to decide on the peer dynamics that work for them. It is also crucial to develop a supportive, constructive, and collegial culture whereby academics value POT as a scholarship of teaching. Further research may need to examine the impacts of potential contextual factors in the implementation of POT. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As policymakers globally recognize aging in place as the preferred option for most adults, there is a growing need to supplement family or informal caregiving for frail older adults with formal homecare services, particularly for those who require 24/7 care due to significant physical and/or cognitive impairment. The core objective of this qualitative study was to explore family members' experiences in employing live-in care workers, particularly the nature of their engagement and the quality of their relationships with these care workers. Our analysis of semi-structured interviews with 35 family caregivers revealed four themes: 1) challenges in acquiring support and developing dependency; 2) negotiation of roles, responsibilities, and moral dilemmas; 3) shifting emotions between trust and suspicion; and 4) role confusion, expectations, and disappointments. The study suggests that families might benefit from formal guidance regarding fostering and maintaining positive relationships in the homecare environment. This paper provides nuanced knowledge that may inform the development of such interventions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Persuasive gamified systems are effective tools for motivating behaviour change using various persuasive strategies. In line with the reinforcement theory, some persuasive gamified systems employ reward and punishment in their design to achieve the intended behavioural outcome. Research has argued both in favour and against using these strategies in behaviour change applications due to mixed results with respect to their effectiveness. However, there is a lack knowledge about how interventions using these strategies could motivate or demotivate behaviours. Therefore, this paper explores the mechanism through which Reward and Punishment motivate or demotivate behaviours with respect to their strengths and weaknesses. The results of large-scale exploratory studies (N = 1768) uncover important strengths and weaknesses that could facilitate or hinder the effectiveness of Reward and Punishment at motivating behaviour change. These include their ability to engage users and make behaviour fun, reinforce commitments to goals, and reveal some consequences of bad behaviour. We also compared the perceived effectiveness of reward and punishment quantitatively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Technology can enable efficient, effective, and independent performance of daily occupations and enhance social and leisure participation. This paper describes the findings of a qualitative study exploring iPad use during daily activities among adults with low vision. Five women who previously participated in a group iPad intervention participated in the study. Thematic analysis revealed 5 main themes: integration of the iPad into daily routine, benefits and barriers of the iPad, psychosocial factors, preferences regarding iPad use, and group instruction in individual iPad use. Group instruction may be a viable intervention option in low vision rehabilitation to improve occupational participation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper explores how social workers integrate personal spirituality within nursing homes, where a highly regulated, stressful environment marginalizes professional identity and challenges retention. Researchers offer new evidence of how spirituality informs professional identity, ethical practice, and continuation in the role. Twenty BSW/MSW licensed nursing home social workers (NHSWs) reported how they daily navigate the personal spirituality-at-work opportunity and challenge. Qualitative analysis of in-depth interviews resulted in three primary codes and related subcodes: Spirituality-Integrated Professional Identity (Vocational Affirmation and Value Alignment), Spirituality-Informed Practice (Intervention Asset, Relational Affinity, and Ambiguous Boundaries), and Spiritually-Sustained Career Resilience. Respondents reported how spirituality animated professional identity, informed daily role enactment, and sustained role involvement. Recommendations are provided for normalizing ethical spirituality-at-work through social work education and practical guidance in navigating the spirituality and practice space. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A growing body of conceptual evidence over the last decade has increased our understanding of parents' experiences of having an infant with complex congenital heart disease. These concepts include parents' feelings of uncertainty, fear, excitement, and mastery. However, little is known about parents' experiences, confidence, and knowledge acquisition during transition from hospital to home with their infant after the first stage of complex cardiac surgery. A theoretical framework to assess, plan and implement child and family centered care would assist children's cardiac nurses responsible for parental education, discharge planning and coordination. To explore parents' experiences of the transition from hospital to home with their infant, following the first stage of cardiac surgery. A prospective mixed methods longitudinal design. Semi-structured interviews were undertaken, including administration of the Maternal Confidence Questionnaire at four timepoints: before discharge following stage one cardiac surgery (T0), 2 weeks' post discharge (T1), 8 weeks' post discharge (T2) and after stage two surgery (T3). Qualitative data were thematically analyzed. Descriptive statistics were used to characterize the sample and non-parametric repeated measures analysis of variance was used to analyze changes over time in maternal confidence scores. Sixteen parents of 12 infants participated. Four "patterns of transition experience" emerged, the fourth "Mastery", is discussed in this paper. Mastery can be contextualized in terms of the parents' journeys of knowledge construction, gaining confidence and reflection. Learning was dynamic and transformational, but successful learning and acquisition of knowledge was also dependent upon the parents' ability to absorb, integrate and adjust at any given time. Confidence at T0 was significantly lower than at T1 (p =.011), T2 (p =.018) and T3 (p =.012). There were no significant differences between scores at T1, T2 and T3. Liminality, as a concept, described the between and betwixt time that parents experienced as they were preparing for discharge from hospital; excitement to be going home balanced with the fear of being alone and confidence in looking after their fragile infant. Parents of infants with complex congenital heart disease obtain knowledge, confidence, and mastery dependent upon their transition experience and their personal journey through pre-liminal, liminal, and post-liminal phases of discharge from hospital to home. A conceptual framework "Parenting through Transitions – hospital to home" emerged that could assist in structuring assessment of parents' knowledge and support needs within a coordinated discharge process. Identifying individualized support would promote adaptation and adjustment during transition from the pre to post liminal phase, following their infant's first stage of complex cardiac surgery. Parents learning was dynamic and transformational, learning opportunities overlapped transitional phases of their infant's journey, but successful learning and acquisition of knowledge was also dependent upon the parents' ability to absorb, integrate and adjust at any given time. The transition from hospital to home and traversing the physical boundary of leaving the hospital for the first time with their infant (liminal phase), was loaded with emotionally traumatic experiences that could not be separated from the transition that was being explored within this study. Adjusting to the new situation, developing confidence over time, and becoming comfortable as they mastered new skills, demonstrated that some of these parents could pass through that liminal space to mastery of a new normal (post-liminal phase), which encompassed competence, integration, and comfort. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this paper was first to gain an in-depth understanding of the barriers and facilitators to implementing the BPS model and pain neuroscience education in the current Lebanese physical therapy health care approach and explore its acceptability. A qualitative semi-structured interview using purposive sampling was conducted with eight Lebanese physical therapists practising in different governorates. The transcribed text from the interviews was analyzed using inductive thematic analysis. Two topics were generated and constructed by the researchers: (1) "barriers to the implementation of pain neuroscience education, with subthemes including (a) "current health care approach," (b) "basic curriculum and continuing education," (c) "patients' barriers"; (2) "facilitators to the implementation of pain neuroscience education," with subthemes containing (a) "interest in the BPS model, (b) "therapeutic alliance," and (c) "motivation for future training on BPS approach." The analysis of the results showed that Lebanese physical therapists currently hold a strong biomedical view of chronic pain, assessment, and treatment. However, despite the presence of barriers and challenges, they are aware and open to consider the implementation and future training about the BPS model and pain neuroscience education in their approach. The exploration of potential barriers and facilitators to the bio-psychosocial model and pain neuroscience education implementation may provide an opportunity for better development and design of a culturally sensitive pain neuroscience education material for Arab-speaking and Lebanese physical therapists. The exploration of barriers and facilitators to the implementation of pain neuroscience education will help to improve pain education and ensure better clinical pain management. The most important barriers were the dominant characteristic of the Lebanese physical therapist's health approach, which is focused on a biomechanically oriented model, and their lack of knowledge to approach chronic pain from a biopsychosocial perspective. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of European Journal of Social Work is the property of Routledge and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Globally, transgender people have been described as a highly marginalised population due to cisgenderism that delegitimises their gender identities and expressions. Despite robust evidence from many countries noting the association of discrimination and stigma for being transgender with heightened mental health risks, qualitative research that examines the nuances of mental health indicators using health equity frameworks has been scant both in Aotearoa/New Zealand and overseas. Using an inductive thematic approach, this paper analysed 222 open-text responses in the mental health section of the 2018 Counting Ourselves: Aotearoa New Zealand, Trans and Non-binary Health Survey. Our findings showed four overarching themes: gender-affirming healthcare, mental healthcare services and accessibility, gender minority stress, and self-affirmation and social support. Participants' narratives described pervasive gender minority stress experiences in gender-affirming and mental healthcare services, including unmet healthcare needs, lack of competency in healthcare delivery, and pathologisation of their genders. In social settings, our participants commonly reported discrimination and violence, although they also reported that self-affirmation strategies and social support offset the impacts of gender minority stress on their mental health. The current findings indicate the importance of exploring mental health outcomes for transgender people in relation to cisgenderism and resultant gender minority stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Following the spread of COVID-19, the Rhode Island Department of Health delivered its first virtual World Diabetes Day (RIWDD) event. Evaluations exploring advantages and disadvantages of delivering public health events virtually are generally lacking. The aims of the present paper were to evaluate the reach, feasibility, and effectiveness of delivering RIWDD virtually. Quantitative methods were used to: (1) estimate and compare the target population to RIWDD's event reach; and (2) evaluate whether diabetes knowledge increased amongst attendees. Qualitative methods assessed event facilitators' perceptions of the strengths, limitations, and challenges of using a virtual format to inform planning and implementation of future RIWDD events. Results revealed segments of RI's population disproportionately affected by diabetes, including men, persons of color, and older adults were underrepresented at the event. The event was not associated with increases in diabetes knowledge; however, attendees possessed high diabetes knowledge overall. Facilitators identified several important factors associated with virtual delivery in the context of COVID-19. Considerations for delivering virtual events are discussed. A key takeaway of this evaluation is the critical need for cultural competency as a guiding framework for professional practice when delivering events virtually. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The "Joint Resources – Sedentary Behavior Study" (JR-SB) revealed significant behavioral and cardio-metabolic effects of reducing daily sedentary behavior replaced by light-intensity physical activity in patients with rheumatoid arthritis. This study explores the participant perception and experiences of the intervention and impact on the participants' health, family and physical activity behavior. Materials and Methods: A mixed-methods study design, including quantitative and qualitative data, was applied. Quantitative data were collected post-intervention using a questionnaire (n = 69) evaluating experiences of participation in the intervention. By maximum variation sampling, 18 participants were recruited to three focus group interviews with discussions of intervention elements. Data from the two sub-studies were collected and analyzed separately, although integrated at the interpretation and reporting level. Results: Based on four overarching themes, results indicated participant satisfaction with the individually tailored, behavioral approach and the focus on light-intensity physical activity rather than higher intensities. Study participation had an additional positive impact on the behaviors of family and social relations. Conversely, the family motivated the participants to achieve their physical activity goals. Conclusions: The study results support the use of individually tailored and behavioral approaches to reduce sedentary behavior, increase light-intensity physical activity and improve physical abilities in patients with rheumatoid arthritis. This paper presents positive participant perception and motivation for an individually tailored, behavioural intervention that aimed to reduce sedentary behaviour replaced by light-intensity physical activity in patients with rheumatoid arthritis. The results indicate that especially the focus on light-intensity physical activity, a consistent focus on the individual's everyday life and continuous support from health professionals motivated the participants to reduce their daily sedentary behaviour – also in the long term. Involvement of participants' family members seems to have influence on their own physical activity behavior as well as on the participants' motivation for changing physical activity behavior. Together with earlier evidence, the results underpin the use of behavioural strategies to support patients with rheumatoid arthritis in achieving their physical activity goals and in improving the abilities needed to manage their everyday lives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In pregnancy, the attachment relationship between a mother and her baby begins to develop and women are more motivated and willing to make changes to become more engaged and responsive mothers and have better relationships with their children. A transgenerational framework has proposed that dysfunctional relationship patterns are often repeated across generations and this has broadened the understanding of early difficulties in parenting. Despite this there has been little research specifically examining high-risk perinatal women and how their interactions with their infants are related to attachment or relational outcomes. This pilot study aims to evaluate, and to explore the acceptability and feasibility, of participating in the Supporting Transitions, Attachment and Relationships (STAR Mums) program, a psychodynamic attachment-based group intervention, for pregnant women with risk factors for attachment difficulties. The STAR Mums program aims to intervene during pregnancy to assist women with risk factors in the transition to parenthood with the desired outcome to improve the quality of mother-infant emotional interactions, regulation and the attachment relationship. This is a mixed-methods design study incorporating both qualitative and quantitative assessments of five groups of five first-time mothers over a 12-month period. This paper outlines the STAR Mums intervention and protocol for assessing acceptability and feasibility. The STAR Mums program takes a preventative approach and supports early intervention for parents at risk of attachment difficulties with their infants. The results of this study will inform revisions to the current treatment manual and a larger-scale program evaluation to further examine the efficacy of this intervention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper examines the multi-dimensional nature of Internet Addiction (IA) and its influence on Well-Being (WB) amongst a representative sample of 320 young urban Indian internet users. Nine hypotheses are proposed through a conceptual model to assess the multi-dimensional nature of IA and its relationship with WB. Partial Least Squares – Structure Equation Modelling (PLS-SEM) was conducted to assess the hypothesised relationships. Of the proposed nine hypotheses, seven were accepted. The result indicated IA as a four-dimensional construct – Internet Control Disorder (ICD), Internet Craving (IC), Internet Obsession (IO), and Addictive Behaviour (AB). The findings supported that ICD positively and significantly influences IC. IC and AB both have a significant impact on IO. ICD and IC have a significant impact on the individual's AB. ICD and IO significantly influence WB. With respect to the dimensions IC, AB, and IO, the model is successful in explaining around 26%, 45%, and 33% of the variation. IA as a multi-dimensional phenomenon and its relationship with WB in a young-demographic nation like India has immense academic and societal value. The study provides critical actionable insights for users, educators, health counsellors, parents, and policymakers regarding interventions for controlling internet addiction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to explore the perspectives of working-aged adults with post-stroke aphasia (PWA) towards what has or would help them in living well with aphasia (LWA). This paper reports the findings in relation to stroke care and its relevance for LWA. This qualitative study was designed with input from a Public and Patient Involvement advisory group. We conducted in-depth, semi-structured interviews with 14 PWA. Data were analysed following principles of reflexive thematic analysis. Support services and LWA spanned five themes: Inpatient care; Support in the community; Speech therapy; Mental health; and Aphasia education and training. Per the findings, all aspects of stroke care were affected and challenged by aphasia. Access to services and information was variable. PWA of working-age, their families and children need access to person-centred stroke care and information responsive to their changing needs at all stages of recovery. Healthcare workers must be equipped with aphasia competency. The results highlight a need for equitable, transparent, responsive access to services, information and stroke liaison support. The findings extend knowledge of the importance of stroke care for supporting working-aged adults and their families to live well in the context of aphasia. There is a need for equitable, transparent access to a responsive integrated pathway of stroke care to support living well with aphasia. People with aphasia post-stroke and their families need access to person-centred stroke care and information responsive to their changing needs at all stages of recovery. This includes flexible access to mental healthcare and speech and language therapy. In order to access relevant care, people with post-stroke aphasia need access to information and stroke liaison support. Training to improve aphasia competency is imperative for healthcare workers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Integrating consumers' experiences into quality mental health service assessment is relevant to improve service outcomes. Despite this, limited studies have attempted to explore consumers' experiences, particularly in developing countries, such as Ghana. This paper aims to explore consumers' subjective experiences of the quality of mental health services. A qualitative method involving in-depth interviews was used to collect data from 21 consumers of mental health services. Thematic analysis was used to analyse the data, which is discussed using a realistic evaluation approach. The study identifies four themes, 33 inductive codes and 594 references. The themes used to interpret the verbatim narratives are the available mental health services, therapeutic interaction with the professionals, competency and skills of the professionals, and the changes experienced in the consumers' lives. The study indicates that the mental health services aim to provide a range of treatments and medications as well as recovery-oriented services, using mechanisms such as ensuring an effective therapeutic relationship and improving technical competency and skills. The contextual factors and the mechanisms have helped to achieve some changes in the lives of consumers (increased satisfaction, reduced symptoms, improved functionality, feeling normal, improved living skills and self-care, work and capabilities, and social inclusion). The study concludes that policymakers and clinicians should integrate evidence-based recovery services, principles and values into the existing mental health services. The mechanisms used to promote quality of mental health services should be strengthened, through periodic monitoring and evaluation, using approaches such as sensor data capturing, to ensure good coordination and continuity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This qualitative study is part of a project aiming to evaluate a community-based approach to the delivery of intermittent preventive treatment of malaria in pregnancy with sulfadoxine-pyrimethamine (IPTp-SP) through community health workers (CHWs) in four sub-Saharan African countries: the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Madagascar, Mozambique and Nigeria. The study aimed to understand the factors that influence the anticipated acceptability of this intervention. A total of 216 in-depth interviews and 62 focus group discussions were carried out in the four country sites with pregnant women, women of reproductive age, community leaders, pregnant women's relatives, CHWs, formal and informal health providers. Grounded theory guided the study design and data collection, and content and thematic analysis was performed through a comparative lens. This paper focuses on one crosscutting theme: trust-building. Two mechanisms that underpin communities' trust in delivery of IPTp via CHWs were identified: 'perceived competence' and 'community and healthcare system integration'. Communities' perception of CHWs' competence shapes their trust in them, which suggests that CHWs' credentials should be made public and that specialised training in maternal health is required for them. Integration depends on the promotion of socially embedded practices and the involvement of formal healthcare systems in CHWs' work. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Religion and spirituality (RS) are vital aspects of client identity and well-being, yet social work professionals are often ill-equipped to address these in practice due to a lack of specialized training. The National Association of Social Work (NASW) and Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) support integrating RS content into social work curriculum, but existing research focuses on Master of Social Work (MSW)-level elective courses. This qualitative study addresses Bachelor of Social Work (BSW)-level integration by (a) exploring how many accredited BSW programs offer an elective course on RS and (b) analyzing syllabi from these courses to determine specific strategies for teaching RS topics. BSW programs can use the study results as a guide for planning and structuring RS content within their curriculum. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Increasing scholarly attention has been paid to the reproductive injustices experienced by Indigenous women. However, the breastfeeding experiences of Indigenous women have infrequently been explored. This study uses a qualitative description research approach to explore the breastfeeding experiences of Indigenous women members of a non-federally recognized tribe in the Gulf South. Key themes included: 1) Shifting generational practices; 2) Lack of institutional resources; 3) Inadequate support from healthcare providers; and 4) Institutional and community supports for breastfeeding. These findings highlight the need for increased institutional and community support, and breastfeeding education, so that Indigenous women can reach their breastfeeding goals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of reflective essays to guide curricular improvements is explored in this qualitative study of two cohorts of students enrolled in a graduate health informatics course. The research questions, methods, and analysis were co-designed with the course instructor and a student who had completed the course and was a teaching assistant in the subsequent year. We thematically analyzed 95 anonymized student reflective essays with a taxonomy of learning and codes developed using the assignment rubric and similar themes derived from published literature. Major themes that emerged were (1) foundational knowledge acquisition and understanding, (2) integration and critical reflection, (3) self-discovery and imagining possibilities beyond the course, and (4) sharing and the human dimension. The results reinforce strengths of the course and informs areas for curricular improvement that incorporate reflection as part of a summative assessment. The discussion highlights challenges students had in writing reflective essays, which will be used to refine the activity and the instructions for the assignment. Our findings will assist students in developing their reflective practice to carry forward in their experiential internship in the program and their careers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

While the field of recovery science has burgeoned over the past two decades, little research has considered the experiences of university students in recovery from addiction, particularly in Canada. Addressing this gap, using a recovery capital framework, 16 qualitative interviews were conducted to explore students' meanings, experiences, and barriers/facilitators to recovery from problematic substance use and/or behaviors. Reflexive thematic analysis revealed three main themes: 1. multiple recovery pathways and identities; 2. stigma and disclosure; and 3. proximity to campus community and resources. Recommendations to create more recovery-friendly campuses are provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hospital-based chaplains provide crucial spiritual and emotional care to patients, families, and staff during times of intense life changes and crises. Chaplains are regularly exposed to suffering and their work may result in personal mental and emotional health challenges. To understand chaplains' perceptions of the impact of their work and methods to cope, a secondary analysis of a mixed-methods study on chaplain well-being was undertaken. Qualitative interviews were conducted with nine hospital-based chaplains and data were coded and analyzed using thematic analysis. Results revealed that participants perceive their work as offering both trials and rewards, and their efforts to cope with trials include interpersonal support, intrapersonal resources, and spiritual resilience. Personal insights into chaplains' experiences may help inform organizational interventions to support these essential members of the care team. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of donated expressed breast milk (DBM) is encouraged in South Africa, with donor milk banks and legislated policies and programmes available in hospitals serving populations with a high HIV prevalence. Concerns over poor attitudes amongst mothers towards DBM seem to persist. A cross-sectional mixed-methods approach was used in a cohort of mothers of neonates in a regional hospital. Between April 2021 and January 2022, survey data on knowledge, awareness and attitudes towards DBM was collected. Qualitative data from open-ended questions were thematically analysed. Comparative analysis using independent sample t-tests and logistic regression to determine differences in variables and to understand associations related to knowledge was conducted. A total of 163 mothers with a mean (SD) age of 27.1 ± 6.3 years were included; 49.7% of mothers had post-high-school qualifications, 82.8% were unemployed and 87.0% received social security. Some 64.4% had inadequate knowledge of DBM. Awareness of DBM had the strongest association with better knowledge concerning DBM and AdjOR (25.25 95% CI 10.60–68.40; p < 0.001). Negative attitudes towards DBM were largely driven by a lack of knowledge regarding human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) screening of donor mothers and fears of HIV transmission when using DBM. Lack of awareness concerning DBM was associated with poor knowledge of DBM, which may drive poor uptake of this critical nutritional source for at-risk neonates. Implementing targeted awareness programmes on DBM, which begin in the antenatal period and specifically address HIV screening of donor mothers, could address the poor uptake of DBM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Approaches to safety culture assessment may have many limits if supported exclusively by quantitative methods. Based on this, a research team developed a quantitative–qualitative approach to assess the maturity of the safety culture on an oil platform. To that end, the team sought to develop and test a method consisting of an initial ethnographic phase followed by four other distinct phases: definition of homogeneous groups; production of customized questionnaires; quantitative evaluation; and qualitative assessment. The results show the emergence of trends, from pre-defined themes in safety culture to specific levels of maturity for each of the homogeneous groups. At the same time, it was perceived that the maturity level of the groups is defined from the daily work practices developed by each one of them. This experience allowed us to propose a framework for assessing the maturity levels of safety culture for the oil and gas industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Healthcare staff are on the frontline during disasters despite any personal adversity and vicarious trauma they may be experiencing. Wellness Warrior training is a post-disaster intervention developed in response to the 2019-2020 Australian bushfires to support staff in a rural hospital located on the South Coast of New South Wales, Australia. Method: This study explored the experiences and perspectives of 18 healthcare staff who were trained to provide emotional and peer support to their colleagues in the aftermath of a crisis. All the Wellness Warriors participated in semi-structured interviews between March and April 2020. Data were analysed using the reflexive thematic approach. Results: Healthcare staff reported developing interpersonal skills around deep listening and connecting with others which allowed for hearing the core of their colleagues' concerns. The training also helped staff to feel differently about work and restored their faith in healthcare leadership. Conclusion: Wellness Warrior training provided staff with knowledge and skills to support their colleagues in the aftermath of a natural disaster and later during the COVID-19 pandemic. As such, these findings suggest that peer support programs such as Wellness Warriors could be one way healthcare organisations can attempt to alleviate the psychological impact of natural disasters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Food delivery platform work is a relatively new phenomenon in Finland and has not been studied widely hence limited knowledge on its work environment. The aim of this study was to explore and understand its psychosocial work environment in the Helsinki region and how it relates to the mental wellbeing of its couriers. Methods: The study draws its findings from 20 semi-structured, in-depth interviews with food delivery platform workers in Helsinki. Data were approached through thematic analysis where the six phases of thematic analysis were meticulously followed. Results: Food delivery platform work provided couriers with income and labour market opportunities. However, its work environment was psychosocially burdening, which posed detrimental challenges to the mental wellbeing of its couriers. Conclusion: Study findings indicated that food delivery platform workers worked in an onerous work environment, which accentuated their occupational mental health. Thus, this study recommends future longitudinal research that would examine the association between food delivery platform work and mental health of couriers working through such platforms. Also, interventions and policies that aim at improving its psychosocial work environment are required for a more decent and healthier work environment that enhances mental health and wellbeing of its couriers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rates of HPV infection and HPV-related cancers are elevated in the Black population of the US. Efforts to promote HPV vaccination and cervical cancer screening are important to reducing the cancer burden among Black populations. The purpose of this qualitative descriptive study guided by social ecological model (SEM) was to describe from the perspective of key informants, the challenges and opportunities for HPV vaccination and cervical cancer screening promotion among Black adults. Twenty-three key informants participated in individual interviews over zoom video conferencing. The sessions were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and checked for accuracy prior to data analysis. Two qualitatively trained researchers analyzed the data using content analysis. Participants were aged 50 ± 4.1 years, 12 were females, and 18 identified as Black. Participants included health care providers, teachers, church and community leaders. Themes included HPV and cancer literacy, influence of religion, health care provider recommendations, social and cultural influences, accessibility and availability of services, economic constraints, limited community resources, and HPV vaccine mandates. SEM factors contribute to low HPV vaccine uptake and cervical cancer screening and these factors need to be addressed. Interventions addressing SEM factors peculiar to Black populations may promote HPV vaccination and cancer screening in this population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study is to explore teachers' experience and understanding of classroom communication after participating in a speech-language pathologist (SLP) led in-service training on classroom communication. This qualitative study used a focus group approach to explore how teachers describe their classroom communication. Twenty primary-school teachers participated. Thematic analysis was used to analyze the teachers' responses about their classroom communication practices 6 months after in-service training. Three core themes on teachers' understanding of their communication in the classroom were identified in the analysis: (1) awareness of voice use; (2) the use of body communication; (3) setting the stage for learning. The teachers gave many examples of voice use reflecting an increased awareness of audibility and vocal health. They reported on moving around more and using more body communication to enhance their message. Further, they expressed an increased awareness about how body posture affects voice and communication. The third theme reflects how the teachers "sets the stage for learning" i.e. how they use the prerequisites in the physical environment for successful classroom communication, including the classroom's sound environment as well as seating and furniture. The findings in this study indicate that teachers increased their awareness, implemented new practices in their classroom communication and reflected on prerequisites for classroom communication as a result of the in-service training. Teachers' classroom communication developed when provided practical training and strategies to increase their awareness on communication. We conclude that this type of SLP-led training can be recommended as in-service training. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: While research pertaining to nonbinary microaggressions has become increasingly comprehensive in recent years, a measure specifically assessing this construct does not yet exist.Aims: The purpose of the present research was to develop and validate the Nonbinary Gender Microaggressions (NBGM) scale, which will allow future researchers to quantitatively examine nonbinary individuals' experiences of microaggressions. Methods and Results: In Study 1 (n = 5), interviews with nonbinary individuals were conducted to explore their microaggressive experiences. The results of this study, as well as findings from previous qualitative research, were used to generate an initial pool of 92 items. In Study 2 (n = 158), a principal component analysis, which was used for item reduction, resulted in the retention of 41 items. In Studies 3 (n = 151) and 4 (n = 266), an exploratory factor analysis yielded a 23-item 5-factor solution (i.e., Negation of Identity [6 items], Inauthenticity [6 items], Deadnaming [4 items], Trans Exclusion [3 items], and Misuse of Gendered Terminology [4 items]), and a confirmatory factor analysis found that this solution demonstrates adequate model fit. Evidence of the measure's scale score reliability, convergent validity, and incremental validity also were provided. Discussion: These findings indicate that, overall, the NBGM scale is a psychometrically sound measure of nonbinary individuals' experiences of microaggressions. As such, this measure can be utilized by future researchers and clinicians to better understand nonbinary individuals' microaggressive experiences. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to identify clinician knowledge regarding manual wheelchair (MWC) training in an inpatient rehabilitation (IPR) setting, identify current MWC education provided to new manual wheelchair users (MWUs), and determine how MWC training resources can be developed or modified to promote use among IPR clinicians. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 20 licenced IPR clinicians who work with MWUs. Using a traditional qualitative research design, researchers completed open, data-driven coding of interview transcripts. Overarching themes were determined through content analysis. Participants included 12 physical therapists, six occupational therapists, one physical therapy assistant, and one occupational therapy assistant. Five themes emerged from the interviews: (1) clinician knowledge, education, and experience (2) current training content (3) training environment, (4) desired programme components (5) barriers to implementation. Participants reported receiving minimal education in school and from their employers on training MWUs. While clinicians expressed the importance of MWU education, they used varying training approaches with little standardization. Participants identified that training protocols for IPR are beneficial if they are quick, straightforward, and flexible. While MWC training occurs during IPR stays, it appears to be inconsistent across facilities, clinicians, and patients, with varying degrees of adherence to evidence-based practices. This is likely due to limited feasibility and awareness of existing MWC training resources. Clinician input gathered from these interviews provides information for how to best integrate MWC training programmes into the rehabilitative process. Findings may inform the development and assessment of more clinically feasible MWC training protocols. New manual wheelchair users must learn numerous wheelchair-related skills in order to participate in everyday life activities. Manual wheelchair education for new users during inpatient rehabilitation is often inconsistent across facilities, clinicians, and patients, with varying degrees of adherence to existing evidence-based practices. Systematic challenges often act as a barrier to the implementation of more comprehensive, structured manual wheelchair training protocols. Manual wheelchair training resources must be concise, flexible, customisable, and easy to follow in order to promote increased implementation among inpatient rehabilitation clinicians. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Across Australia and New Zealand, speech-language pathologists (SLPs) routinely assess and treat adults with cognitive-communication disorders following traumatic brain injury (TBI). Despite their regular involvement, little is known about how clinicians provide management to this client group, particularly in community-based contexts. Therefore the aim of this study is to explore the clinical practices of SLPs who have experience working in community-based rehabilitation services with adults with cognitive-communication disorders following TBI. Method: A qualitative descriptive study using one-on-one semi-structured interviews was conducted as part of an explanatory sequential mixed-methods design. Fourteen SLPs with experience working with individuals with TBI completed an interview with content analysis used to explore the data. Result: The overarching theme identified was that a "Client-centred and inclusive approach to community-based rehabilitation services" is required. The three subthemes to emerge from the data included the importance of utilising a (1) "flexible service delivery approach", with (2) "meaningful therapy focus", and (3) "collaboration" with multidisciplinary team members and significant others when managing this client group. Conclusion: SLPs play a crucial role in client-centred inclusive rehabilitation for community-dwelling adults with cognitive-communication disorders following TBI. The complexity of working with this population requires current and future models of care to incorporate an interdisciplinary approach that is flexible in its delivery and meaningful in focus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Concepts such as active citizenship and critical consciousness are increasingly relevant to enable students to meet the challenges of tomorrow. Additionally, self-reflection is a powerful tool to observe the development of abstract concepts such as these. This qualitative exploratory study examined the extent to which university students in Colombia enhanced their critical consciousness and a sense of active citizenship through projects focused on cases of violence against social leaders in their region. During the project, 93 students in four academic cohorts wrote a total of 155 reflections related to their experiences. These were analyzed using qualitative content analysis with the AtlasTi software. The results evidenced a shift in students' critical consciousness including a deeper understanding, a recognition of significance, an acknowledgement of privilege, and an awareness of the connection between local and global issues in relation to the topic of the project. In addition, traits of active citizenship were observed such as a sense of collective responsibility, a desire to contribute, a sense of empowerment, and growth in empathy. This research demonstrates the potential for authentic locally based project topics for developing active citizenship and enhancing critical consciousness as well as reinforcing the potential for reflections to demonstrate such development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to explore barriers to hearing aid adoption amongst older adults in mainland China. Semi-structured interviews were audio-recorded and analysed using qualitative thematic analysis. The study included 12 older adults who had seen ENTs and had not adopted hearing aids. Three overarching themes and ten subthemes were generated to explain why older adults in mainland China do not adopt hearing aids: (1) Desire a cure for hearing loss, (2) Lack of a perceived need for hearing aids, and (3) Negative impressions of, and misconceptions about, hearing aids. Although barriers are similar to those reported in Western societies, the under-developed hearing healthcare infrastructure, Chinese health beliefs, Chinese culture, and low health literacy play important roles in preventing older adults to adopt hearing aids in mainland China. To identify barriers to hearing aid adoption and address them, hearing health practitioners should learn what older adults know about their hearing loss, how they perceive the effects of hearing loss, and how they feel about hearing aids. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Since Hawaii has the highest rate of per capita of persons experiencing homelessness (PEH) in the United States, the purpose of this qualitative evaluation study was to evaluate the experiences of both the providers and clients of a Street Medicine (SM) program serving one side of the island of O'ahu. This evaluation used Story Inquiry to qualitatively assess one SM program serving one side of the island of O'ahu in Hawa'i. Since the culture in Hawaii is largely based upon stories, a qualitative approach was taken to better understand the lived experiences of PEH who utilized the SM services, as well as provider perspectives. The findings of this evaluation include strengths of increased primary care engagement and improved quality of life for PEH; barriers to success included transportation scarcity and limitations of services available. The findings lend implications for new SM programs, including gathering community support, having culturally aware outreach and that mobility and flexibility can overcome health-care barriers for PEH. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study's aim was two-fold: (1) to explore the experiences and perceptions of industry, academic, and research professionals concerning technologies used within aged care; and (2) to identify needs-led priorities for the future development and application of technologies within aged care. Global population ageing requires a recalibration of aged care policies, systems, and services to promote and support healthy ageing. It is expected that technology will play an important role in this regard. This study qualitatively assessed the landscape of technology use in aged care from the perspective of industry, academic, and research professionals. A purposefully designed cross-sectional survey collecting experiences, perspectives, and barriers about technology through open responses. Using convenience sampling, thirty-five participants completed an online survey between April and October 2020. A descriptive qualitative content analysis approach was used to analyse the written responses. Reporting of findings followed the EQUATOR's Standards for Reporting Qualitative Research checklist. Four themes were identified that characterised the use of technologies within aged care: (1) User Perceptions and Attitudes: wariness and reluctance to technology; (2) Systemic Issues within Aged Care: Under-resourced with opportunities for innovation; (3) Technology-Related Barriers: Equity, costs, privacy, integration, and interoperability and (4) Research Priorities: Co-design and integration of technology. The existing technology does not meet the needs of older people, aged care personnel and the system in general, which prevents its successful implementation and uptake. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Patients with a rare cancer often face delays in their diagnostic and treatment trajectory, which may affect their work. In this study, we explored experiences and needs of: 1) patients with a rare cancer regarding return to work (RTW) and work retention, and 2) (health care) professionals (HCPs) regarding work-related support of patients with a rare cancer, throughout their disease trajectory. Semi-structured, in-depth interviews with working-age patients with a rare cancer (n = 16), and HCPs (n = 9) were conducted. During the interviews, a predefined topic list was used. Interviews were transcribed verbatim and analysed by means of thematic analysis. In total, three themes emerged from the interviews: 1) Awareness in patients and HCPs as a first step towards work, 2) Being/becoming an expert is a tough job, and 3) Enhancing employability through early personalized guidance. Patients with a rare cancer are confronted with uncertainties regarding work, due to an overall lack of knowledge and experience with these types of cancer. Raising awareness among patients, HCPs and employers about rare cancer and its implications, and providing timely individualized, supportive occupational care are required to improve rare cancer patients' ability to work. Recognizing and paying attention to the work-related consequences of a rare cancer diagnosis and its treatment is essential to facilitate rare cancer patients' occupational rehabilitation process. Multidisciplinary collaboration and involvement of HCPs specialized in rare cancer are required to provide suitable work-related support. A personalized approach is necessary to adequately address rare cancer patients' RTW and work retention needs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although allied health services are important adjuncts to medical care for people with myasthenia gravis (MG), the underutilisation of these services is not well understood within the Australian context. It is critical to explore patients' perceptions to develop services that meet consumer needs. This study, therefore, sought to obtain insight into MG patients' perspectives and experiences, in addition to the outcomes, of accessing allied health services. Thirteen Australian adults with MG participated in semi-structured interviews. Qualitative analysis was conducted inductively using thematic content analysis. Four themes were identified: (1) missed opportunities and unmet care needs were common, due to frequent patient–provider communication breakdowns and a lack of referral protocols, (2) personal factors – patient self-advocacy influenced their perceived need, with some lacking confidence to seek help, (3) perceived benefit and health provider capacities – most valued allied health despite differing perceptions of health professionals' attitudes, skills, and willingness to learn, and (4) a resultant fragmentation of care between services was universal. Findings highlighted a need for clear referral pathways, coordinated multidisciplinary care, improved access to community-based services and education for allied health professionals about MG. Adults with myasthenia gravis (MG) report a lack of referral pathways to allied health services, leading to unmet needs and fragmented care. Although there is a perceived benefit to allied health care, experiences are impacted by health provider capacity and attitudes. There needs to be an overall shift towards multidisciplinary care for people with MG, and the development of clear referral pathways. Specific education about MG should be available for allied health professionals to improve their knowledge and skills in treating this population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Research on dementia literacy in Chinese societies is still emerging, and this is especially the case among racially minoritized groups. The present study explored the knowledge, causal beliefs, and help-seeking behaviors of South Asian migrants in Hong Kong about dementia. It also investigated existing community barriers related to dementia knowledge and help-seeking. We conducted a qualitative study from a purposive sample of 38 older people and family caregivers from India, Pakistan, and Nepal who lived in Hong Kong. Focus groups and individual in-depth interviews were used to gather information, while thematic analysis was employed to analyze the data. Five main themes were identified: normalization with stigmatization of dementia; spiritual and psychosocial attributions of dementia; familial responsibility despite potential caregiving burden; uncertainties versus openness to professional care; and barriers and opportunities in dementia literacy. Ethnic minorities recognized dementia as a disease of normal aging or a mental disorder. They also perceived spiritual and psychosocial factors as their main causes. While participants recognized the potential burden of dementia caregiving, families were their first point of help-seeking, as many of them expressed contrasting feelings of confidence or doubt toward professional services. Utilization of health education strategies, together with collaboration with community leaders, could address the barriers to dementia literacy. This is the first study to explore how ethnic minorities in Asia perceive dementia and its related help-seeking behaviors in their communities. South Asian migrants in Hong Kong have a limited understanding of dementia and may experience delays in obtaining relevant community services. While culture influenced their knowledge, health education may address their misperceptions and help-seeking behaviors toward dementia. Culture- and language-specific programs could also improve dementia knowledge and health service access. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As the efficacy of low vision service provision is facilitated by clients' access to and proper use of low vision devices, the objective of this study was to evaluate an outpatient clinic-based low vision device lending library program and the functional and psychosocial impact that device use had upon clients. Twenty individuals borrowed portable video magnifiers during the study period. Line items from the Revised-Self-Report Assessment of Functional Visual Performance and the Reading Behavior Inventory were analyzed before and after device loan at two months. The Psychosocial Impact of Assistive Devices Scale-10 and a semi-structured interview were also completed at two months. Reported improvements in reading performance and satisfaction levels on the Reading Behavior Inventory were significant (p<.001). The Revised-Self-Report Assessment of Functional Visual Performance indicated improved independence in reading medications, bills and labels. Higher scores in happiness, independence, sense of control and adaptability on the Psychosocial Impact of Assistive Devices Scale-10 indicated device retention at two months. Qualitative themes included improved independence, time needed to acclimate to the device, personal appraisal impacting motivation and challenges specific to low vision. This article provides occupational therapists a model to facilitate access, person-device fit and successful use of low vision devices to promote therapy outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Physical activity (PA) participation is important for children born extremely preterm or extremely low birthweight as it provides opportunities to improve motor skills and cardiovascular fitness; however there is little evidence on interventions promoting PA participation for this group, particularly at preschool age. This study aims to explore the acceptability, a critical component of intervention feasibility, of a novel dance participation intervention. Semi-structured interviews explored the acceptability of Dance PREEMIE, a Dance PaRticipation intervention for Extremely prEterm children with Motor Impairment at prEschool age (trial registration ACTRN12619001266156), from the perspectives of dance teachers delivering the intervention (n = 6), and parents of participating children (n = 6). Data were analyzed using reflexive thematic analysis. Five themes were developed: 1) placing the child center-stage: a shared motivation to promote child wellbeing and development; 2) Dance PREEMIE as a catalyst for participation; 3) child development takes time, practice and exposure; 4) the value of being informed; and 5) dance teachers as architects of the learning environment. Dance PREEMIE was acceptable to both parents of participating children and dance teachers. Findings from this study may inform future interventions aiming to improve PA participation for children with motor impairment at preschool age. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Parents of children with hearing loss (HL) often navigate an unfamiliar and uncertain path. This qualitative study investigated the nature of parental uncertainty: (1) immediately after a child's HL was identified; (2) prior to primary school entry; and (3) during primary school. Open-ended questions in online surveys were completed by participants (N = 61) with: (a) personal experience as a parent of a child with HL (n = 35); (b) professional experience with children who have HL (n = 19); or (c) a combination of both parental and professional experience (n = 7). Six major themes were abstracted using thematic analysis, including uncertainty about: (1) the Pervasive Impact of HL, (2) the Nature and Causes of HL, (3) Developmental Impacts, (4) Family Life, (5) Family Decision-Making, and (6) Education and Support Services. The salience of these depended on the stage in time following identification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Health funding provisions supported by governments are pivotal for families accessing independent speech-language pathology services in Australia. Little is known of the facilitators and barriers that exist for accessing public funding for speech-language pathology services through independent providers. This study aimed to investigate and describe the perceptions of speech-language pathologists in accessing public funding models (PFMs) for children and young persons with communication and swallowing needs within Australian independent practice. Semi-structured qualitative interviews were conducted with twenty independent speech-language pathologists who had experience of PFMs in Australia. Digitally recorded interviews were transcribed verbatim and subjected to thematic analysis. Data analysis revealed five superordinate and eighteen subordinate themes. The five superordinate themes were: (a) accessibility in securing funding provisions; (b) time as a commodity; (c) incongruence between funding provisions and speech-language pathology evidence; (d) trust as a multifaceted quality; and (e) consequences of PFMs. This original and timely research offers perceptive descriptions of the multifaceted facilitators and barriers for families seeking to access public funding for independent speech-language pathology services in Australia. Research findings illuminate challenges for the speech-language pathology profession. Accessibility to funding was identified as a major issue. Research findings suggest that current funding provisions do not align with the dosage required for evidence-based speech-language pathology management. Further, this research has highlighted the need for funding to be equitable, acceptable to stakeholders, and for services to be delivered in an efficient and sustainable manner. Future research is recommended to understand which Australian PFMs: (a) facilitate consumer access to speech-language pathology services; (b) enrich consumer experiences; and (c) align with scientific evidence to promote optimal outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

While the benefits of reflection for students are well documented, there is a parallel body of research pointing to varying levels of engagement with reflection. Students on a four-year business information systems programme have to complete a reflection as part of their placement assessment. Using a constructivist qualitative methodology, this research explores the students' experience of reflecting with a view to identifying what supports could be useful to guide students in the future. Using semi-structured interviews, the students described a focus on description of activities and overall uncertainty on what to write. There are multiple possible interventions which could support the students but some would require significant and high-level support within the university. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]