Experiences of using information and communication technology within the first year after stroke – a grounded theory study

Purpose:
The purpose of this study was to identify how people 6–12 months after stroke were using and integrating information and communication technology (ICT) in their everyday lives.
Method:
To capture the participants’ experiences, one focus group and 14 individual interviews were carried out in Sweden and Denmark regarding the use of ICT in everyday life. The participants comprised 11 men and seven women aged 41–79 years. A grounded theory approach was used throughout the study and a constant comparative method was used in the analysis.
Results:
Five categories were identified from the analysis of the interviews with the participants: 1) Using the mobile phone to feel safe, 2) Staying connected with others, 3) Recreating everyday life, 4) A tool for managing everyday life, and 5) Overcoming obstacles for using ICT. From these categories one core category emerged: The drive to integrate ICT in everyday life after stroke.
Conclusions:
People with stroke had a strong drive to integrate ICT in order to manage and bring meaning to their everyday lives, although sometimes they needed support and adaptations. It is not only possible but also necessary to start using ICT in rehabilitation in order to support people’s recovery and promote participation in everyday life after stroke.