How do mobility device users integrate their devices into occupational performance? A narrative literature review

Abstract

Knowledge about how mobility devices are integrated into occupational performance is important to improve participation in daily life among users and assistive technology provision. This study aimed to identify and synthesise literature on how mobility device users integrate their devices into occupational performance. A narrative review was conducted with a systematic search in PubMed, CINAHL, PsycINFO and SocINDEX for scientific, original, peer-reviewed journal publications in the English or Scandinavian languages. Following search terms were used: mobility devices, occupational performance and synonyms. Publications were screened and read, and data were extracted by two authors independently. A total of 4088 hits led to the identification of six publications. Two categories were identified: (1) how mobility devices are integrated into occupational performance and (2) for what types of occupations beyond mobility are mobility devices used for; seven types were revealed. Mobility devices are integrated into occupations in unique ways to the individual users, shaping how occupations are performed and are used for different types of occupations beyond mobility. Since mobility device use is situational, it is suggested to investigate assistive technology use, applying a transactional perspective to improve assistive technology provision to increase fulfilment of users’ needs and preferences.