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Scholarly practice (SP) is considered a key competency of occupational therapy and physiotherapy. To date, the three sectors—education/research, practice, and policy/regulation—that support SP have been working relatively independently. The goals of this project were to (a) understand how representatives of the three sectors conceptualize SP; (b) define each sector's individual and collective roles in supporting SP; (c) identify factors influencing the enactment of SP and the specific needs of how best to support SP; and (d) co-develop goals and strategies to support SP across all sectors. We used interpretive description methodology. Consistent with an integrated knowledge translation approach, partners representing the three sectors across Canada recruited individuals from each sector, developed the content and questions for three focus groups, and collected and analyzed the data. Inspired by the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research, we developed the questions for the second focus group. We analyzed the data using an inductive thematic analysis method. Thirty-nine participants from the three sectors participated. Themes related to participants' conceptualization of SP included (a) ongoing process, (b) reflective process, (c) broad concept, and (d) collective effort. Themes describing factors influencing and supporting SP were (a) recognition, (b) appropriate conceptualization, (c) social network, (d) accessibility to resources, and (e) forces outside of practitioners' effort. Goals to support SP included (a) further recognizing SP, (b) sustaining SP competency, and (c) ensuring access to information. SP requires collaborative and integrated intersectoral support and further recognition of its importance through the collaboration of multiple stakeholders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Succeeding in bringing a culture of consent involves the mobilization of all partners. In New Brunswick, a group of professors brought together for the first time in this Canadian province, people from the community, schools, and post-secondary sectors to discuss, reflect and reimagine education. This is how in 2015, from the perspective of shared leadership, the Forum francophone sur l'apprentissage (Francophone conference on education and learning) was created. In 2022, the fourth edition of the Forum aimed to define the notion of consent to reduce violence in all its forms. Hence, this Forum was the event that led to the first Consent and Healthy Relationships Summit in 2023. This article will shed light on how the power of human mobilization and shared leadership can advance a culture of consent. Through documentary analysis of artifacts collected during these events, the authors identify the ingredients that led to their success. Although these events took place in small communities, these results are similar to those of Routhieaux (2015). Shared leadership actions lead to partnerships to address complex societal issues like consent and healthy relationships; these impacts can inspire others. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective was to explore the care experiences and service design related to rehabilitation for mobility and participation in the community among individuals with acquired brain injury (ABI), as perceived by clinicians and patients. Five focus groups were held: three with clinicians and two with individuals with ABI. Focus group discussions were transcribed and analyzed using an inductive and deductive thematic content approach. Five themes were identified: Enabling continuity of care; System design; Accessibility and services in the community; Transportation services; and Uncertainty about the provided services. The results of participants' experiences contributed to developing recommendations of service provision for mobility, leading to a patient-centered continuum of rehabilitation services. Accessibility to rehabilitation to improve the quality of care by addressing needs during transitions and mobility-related deficits, providing needed information, coordinated care, and self-management support in the community. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The sheer number of measures evaluating mobility and inconsistencies in terminology make it challenging to extract potential core domains and items. Automating a portion of the data synthesis would allow us to cover a much larger volume of studies and databases in a smaller fraction of the time compared to the usual process. Thus, the objective of this study was to identify a comprehensive outcome set and develop preliminary banks of items of mobility among individuals with acquired brain injury (ABI) using Natural Language Processing (NLP). Methods: An umbrella review of 47 reviews evaluating the content of mobility measures among individuals with ABI was conducted. A search was performed on 5 databases between 2000 and 2020. Two independent reviewers retrieved copies of the measures and extracted mobility domains and items. A pre-trained BERT model (state-of-the-art model for NLP) provided vector representations for each sentence. Using the International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health Framework (ICF) ontology as a guide for clustering, a k-means algorithm was used to retrieve clusters of similar sentences from their embeddings. The resulting embedding clusters were evaluated using the Silhouette score and fine-tuned according to expert input. Results: The study identified 246 mobility measures, including 474 domains and 2109 items. Encoding the clusters using the ICF ontology and expert knowledge helped in regrouping the items in a way that is more closely related to mobility terminology. Our best results identified banks of items that were used to create a 24 comprehensive outcome sets of mobility, including Upper Extremity Mobility, Emotional Function, Balance, Motor Control, Self-care, Social Life and Relationships, Cognition, Walking, Postural Transition, Recreation, and Leisure Activities, Activities of Daily Living, Physical Functioning, Communication, Work/Study, Climbing, Sensory Functions, General Health, Fatigue, Functional Independence, Pain, Alcohol and Drugs Use, Transportation, Sleeping, and Finances. Conclusion: The banks of items of mobility domains represent a first step toward establishing a comprehensive outcome set and a common language of mobility to develop the ontology. It enables researchers and healthcare professionals to begin exposing the content of mobility measures as a way to assess mobility comprehensively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and objective: While several mobility measures exist, there is large variability across measures in how mobility is conceptualized, the source of information and the measurement properties making it challenging to select relevant mobility measures for individuals with acquired brain injury (ABI). Therefore, the objective was to conduct a comprehensive synthesis of existing evidence on the measurement properties, the interpretability and the feasibility of mobility measures from various sources of information (patients, clinicians, technology) using an umbrella review of published systematic reviews among individuals with ABI. Methods: Ovid MEDLINE, CINHAL, Cochrane Library and EMBASE electronic databases were searched from 2000 to March 2020. Two independent reviewers appraised the methodological quality of the systematic reviews using the Joanna Briggs Institute critical appraisal checklist. Measurement properties and quality of evidence were applied according to COnsensus-based Standards for the Selection of Health Measurement Instrument (COSMIN) guidelines. Mobility measures were categorized using international standards with the international classification of functioning, disability and health (ICF). Results: Thirty-five systematic reviews were included covering 147 mobility measures, of which 85% were mapped to the ICF Activity and Participation component. Results showed an acceptable overall "sufficient" rating for reliability, construct validity and responsiveness for 132 (90%), 127 (86%) and 76 (52%) of the measures, respectively; however, among these measures, ≤ 25% of the methods for evaluating these properties were rated as 'high' quality of evidence. Also, there was limited information that supports measure feasibility and scoring interpretability. Conclusions: Future systematic reviews should report measures' content validity to support the use of the measure in clinical care and research. More evaluations of the minimal important difference and floor and ceiling effects are needed to help guide clinical interpretation. Registration information: International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO); ID: CRD42018100068. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim was to identify and describe the assessment methods used by rehabilitation professionals to evaluate sexuality for individuals post-stroke, as well as the domains of sexuality addressed. Seven databases were selected for this scoping review. Articles needed to meet these inclusion criteria: published studies with a sample of ≥ 50% stroke clients and describing a quantitative or qualitative assessment method that could be used by rehabilitation professionals. This study was conducted following the PRISMA guidelines and domains of sexuality were categorized using the ICF core set for stroke. Of the 2447 articles reviewed, the 96 that met the selection criteria identified a total of 116 assessment methods classified as standardized assessment tools (n = 62), original questionnaires (n = 28), semi-structured interviews (n = 16) or structured interviews (n = 10). Sexual functions were predominantly assessed using standardized tools, while intimate relationships and partner's perspective were generally addressed more by original questionnaires and qualitative methods. A stepwise approach combining relevant assessment methods is presented. Individually, these diverse assessment methods addressed a limited scope of relevant domains. Future research should combine quantitative and qualitative methods to encompass most domains of sexuality of concern to post-stroke individuals. Most of the studies reviewed here used quantitative methods to assess sexuality, rather than qualitative methods, and mostly used standardized assessment tools. Few assessment methods covered all domains related to sexuality. Qualitative methods and standardized assessment tools were shown to be complementary, therefore emphasizing the added value of mixed methods in assessing sexuality after a stroke. Among the methods that were reviewed, certain would be more suitable for the identification of the need to address sexuality (e.g., Life Satisfaction Checklist-11) and others to assess more thoroughly sexuality (e.g., Change in Sexual Functioning Questionnaire (CSFQ-14)). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Rapid advances in technologies over the past 10 years have enabled large-scale biomedical and psychosocial rehabilitation research to improve the function and social integration of persons with physical impairments across the lifespan. The Biomedical Research and Informatics Living Laboratory for Innovative Advances of New Technologies (BRILLIANT) in community mobility rehabilitation aims to generate evidence-based research to improve rehabilitation for individuals with acquired brain injury (ABI). Objective: This study aims to (1) identify the factors limiting or enhancing mobility in real-world community environments (public spaces, including the mall, home, and outdoors) and understand their complex interplay in individuals of all ages with ABI and (2) customize community environment mobility training by identifying, on a continuous basis, the specific rehabilitation strategies and interventions that patient subgroups benefit from most. Here, we present the research and technology plan for the BRILLIANT initiative. Methods: A cohort of individuals, adults and children, with ABI (N=1500) will be recruited. Patients will be recruited from the acute care and rehabilitation partner centers within 4 health regions (living labs) and followed throughout the continuum of rehabilitation. Participants will also be recruited from the community. Biomedical, clinician-reported, patient-reported, and brain imaging data will be collected. Theme 1 will implement and evaluate the feasibility of collecting data across BRILLIANT living labs and conduct predictive analyses and artificial intelligence (AI) to identify mobility subgroups. Theme 2 will implement, evaluate, and identify community mobility interventions that optimize outcomes for mobility subgroups of patients with ABI. Results: The biomedical infrastructure and equipment have been established across the living labs, and development of the clinician- and patient-reported outcome digital solutions is underway. Recruitment is expected to begin in May 2022. Conclusions: The program will develop and deploy a comprehensive clinical and community-based mobility-monitoring system to evaluate the factors that result in poor mobility, and develop personalized mobility interventions that are optimized for specific patient subgroups. Technology solutions will be designed to support clinicians and patients to deliver cost-effective care and the right intervention to the right person at the right time to optimize long-term functional potential and meaningful participation in the community. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Online decision support systems (DSS) may help older adults self-select assistive technology (AT) by offering recommendations. User interactions with DSSs may change the recommendations they receive. Objective: We evaluated recommendations stability and usability of an online DSS. Methods: Middle-aged and older adults (n = 43) were observed while using the DSS. The stability of DSS recommendations (ATs and advice) was compared between two time points, using a three-point scale: no, partial, or full agreement. Usability was coded, referencing ISO standards. Results: Half (51%) of participants received AT recommendations from the DSS in both sessions, with full (14%) or partial (12%) agreement. All but one participant received advice, and almost all of them had full (40%) or partial (56%) agreement between sessions. Many of the usability issues appear to be the result of the users inaccurately measuring their environment, challenges in understanding the questions being asked, and improperly making selections from the system. Discussion: Strict AT matching rules versus generic advice, and usability issues, likely reduced the matching rate and stability of AT recommendations. Conclusion: It appears that some users may require assistance with the system, and we suggest changes to the DSS format and content to improve stability and usability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Persons with a physical disability may need adapted clothing to facilitate their full participation in society; it is unclear what information designers use to create adapted clothing. Objective: Explore the perspectives of fashion industry representatives regarding adapted clothing and gauge their receptiveness towards academic inquiry. Methods: Semi-structured interviews with five female adapted clothing designers were conducted, transcribed verbatim, coded, and analyzed thematically. Results: Participants felt research (i.e. knowledge and guidance) could benefit the design process and spoke about industry barriers (e.g. time, manufacturing, human and material resources, marketing, level of importance) to designing adapted clothing. Conclusions: Strengthening collaborations with stakeholders (e.g. researchers, designers, consumers, health professionals, caregivers) may add credibility to future adapted clothing designs and bridge the gap between research and practice. Engagement from fashion design trainees could also contribute to growing a more socially responsible industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To identify factors which may influence mobility and could be considered during the evaluation of mobility in individuals with acquired brain injury (ABI) following qualitative focus groups with both clinicians and individuals with ABI, to assess their needs and preferences in order to individualize their care management plans. Five focus groups were held, three with clinicians from 3 rehabilitation sites of CRIR (CRDM: n = 4; IURDPM: n = 3; JRH: n = 10) and two with individuals with ABI from one rehabilitation site (CRDM) (individuals with stroke: n = 5; individuals with TBI: n = 5). Focus group discussions were transcribed and analyzed using inductive and deductive thematic content approaches. Four themes were identified: considering mobility holistically and individual needs, preferences, and unique experiences; assessment and intervention guidelines; support network; and uncertainty about symptoms and recovery. Using the ten-rule International Classification, Functioning, Disability, and Health framework linking process, codes were categorized into Body Functions Activity and Participation, and Environmental Factors exploring the prominent domains that mostly identify factors influencing mobility. Comprehensive measurement of mobility remains an ongoing challenge owing to multiple contributing factors, ranging from personal and psychosocial factors to the influence of a myriad of environmental and community considerations. Preparing individuals with ABI for community mobility can be substantially improved if healthcare professionals employ communicative tools to facilitate shared decision making with patients and to deliver patient-centred rehabilitation care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Objectives: Medication management is challenging for persons with Alzheimer's disease (AD) and their caregivers. Electronic medication management devices (eMMDs) are specifically designed to support this task. However, theory-driven interventions for eMMD training with this population are rarely described. This study aimed to develop and assess the appropriateness of an intervention protocol to train persons with early-stage AD how to use an eMMD. Methods: Interviews with three categories of participants [persons with early-stage AD (n = 3), caregivers (n = 3), and clinicians (n = 3)] were conducted to understand medication management needs, perceived usefulness of an eMMD, and to explore training strategies. Subsequently, this knowledge was integrated in an intervention protocol which was validated with the three clinicians. A content analysis led to iterative modifications to maximize the acceptability and coherence of the intervention protocol in a homecare context. Results: The final intervention protocol specifies the expertise required to provide the training intervention and the target population, followed by an extensive presentation of eMMD features. Specific learning strategies tailored to the cognitive profile of persons with AD with step-by-step instructions for clinicians are included. Finally, it presents theoretical information on cognitive impairment in AD and how eMMDs can support them. Conclusions: This intervention protocol with its theoretical and pragmatic foundation is an important starting point to enable persons with early-stage AD to become active users of eMMDs. Next steps should evaluate the immediate and long-term impacts of its implementation on medication management in the daily lives of persons with AD and their caregivers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As rehabilitation specialists, occupational therapy practitioners play a gateway role regarding recommendation of various technologies for homecare. However, no study has investigated current occupational therapy practices concerning information and communication technology (ICT) for older adults in Canada. The objective of this study was to identify Canadian occupational therapists' (OTs) knowledge and practices of ICT with older adults as well as factors associated with its recommendation. A Canada-wide, cross-sectional, online survey was conducted. Of 387 OTs, only 12.4% reported recommending ICT in practice. ICTs supporting communication and cognition were the main types recommended. The reported barriers to use in practice differed between ICT familiar users and nonusers. Multivariate logistic regression analyses showed that clinicians with more years of clinical experience were more likely to recommend ICT. Clinicians' services, work environments, and client diagnosis were also factors associated with ICT recommendation. Additional research is needed to understand how to overcome barriers to ICT recommendation in OT practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To identify factors which may influence mobility and could be considered during the evaluation of mobility in individuals with acquired brain injury (ABI) following qualitative focus groups with both clinicians and individuals with ABI, to assess their needs and preferences in order to individualize their care management plans. Methods: Five focus groups were held, three with clinicians from 3 rehabilitation sites of CRIR (CRDM: n=4; IURDPM: n=3; JRH: n=10) and two with individuals with ABI from one rehabilitation site (CRDM) (individuals with stroke: n=5; individuals with TBI: n=5). Focus group discussions were transcribed and analyzed using inductive and deductive thematic content approaches. Results: Four themes were identified: considering mobility holistically and individual needs, preferences, and unique experiences; assessment and intervention guidelines; support network; and uncertainty about symptoms and recovery. Using the ten-rule International Classification, Functioning, Disability, and Health framework linking process, codes were categorized into Body Functions Activity and Participation, and Environmental Factors exploring the prominent domains that mostly identify factors influencing mobility. Conclusions: Comprehensive measurement of mobility remains an ongoing challenge owing to multiple contributing factors, ranging from personal and psychosocial factors to the influence of a myriad of environmental and community considerations. Preparing individuals with ABI for community mobility can be substantially improved if healthcare professionals employ communicative tools to facilitate shared decision making with patients and to deliver patient-centred rehabilitation care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Direct observation of everyday task performance is considered the most accurate measure of independence for individuals with executive function impairments. However, few observation‐based measures have been shown to have sound psychometric qualities and be clinically applicable. The objective of this study was to investigate the Activities of Daily Living (ADL) Profile's structural validity using exploratory factor analyses and internal consistency in order to identify the minimum set of tasks required to achieve reliable scores in each of three ADL environments (personal, home and community). Methods: Ninety‐one persons with a severe traumatic brain injury aged 16–40 years (convenience sample) were recruited from a university affiliated level 1 trauma hospital. The 17 observation‐based tasks of the ADL Profile were administered by one of five occupational therapists, either in the hospital or in the subjects' home and community environments. This measure of independence considers goal formulation, planning, carrying out and verifying goal attainment. Results: Exploratory factor analysis indicated the unidimensionality of the 17 tasks of the ADL Profile. A single factor explained more than 80% of the common variation, which in this case is the concept of independence. Internal consistency of task scores is very high (0.955), suggesting redundancy of the tasks. Approaches used to reduce the number of items, and to optimise the clinical applicability of the tool, showed that a minimum of two tasks per each of three environments (personal, home, community) is required to obtain reliable results that respect the tool's internal structure. Each assessment should contain both simple and familiar and more novel and complex tasks. Conclusions: Findings show that the ADL Profile is a valid and clinically applicable observation‐based measure of independence that considers four important task‐related components: goal formulation, planning, carrying out and verifying goal attainment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Providing care to older adults using assistive technology can be challenging for family caregivers. To inform the development of an Internet-based intervention, this study aimed to identify older assistive technology users and family caregivers' needs related to assistive technology procurement, and to explore how to offer remote support through an Internet-based intervention. Methods: Based on an iterative user-centered design approach, 30 semi-structured interviews were conducted with stakeholders about their experiences with assistive technology procurement/attribution and their perceptions of a proposed intervention. A modified content analysis approach was used, with a mix of emerging and a priori concepts. Results: Participants view assistive technology procurement as an ongoing cyclical process, with potential unmet needs at key moments before and after assistive technology procurement. Assistive technology user-family caregiver dyads needs focus on assistive technology information, access, assistive technology-person-context match, training and support. While participants felt there were benefits to the proposed intervention they also identified potential implementation barriers. Conclusion: Assistive technology Internet-based interventions dedicated to family caregivers should ensure systematic and tailored follow-up while integrating some form of human support. This study guides the prototype design of the proposed intervention towards a graded support approach, empowering assistive technology users and family caregivers to resolve assistive technology-related challenges. Providing home-based care to older adults using assistive technology (e.g., mobility aids, communication aids) can be challenging for family caregivers. Using a user-centered design approach, an Internet-based intervention is under development to support older assistive technology users and their family caregivers. Through interviews with diverse stakeholders, this study explores unmet needs related to assistive technology procurement and perceptions about the proposed intervention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]