The dynamics of affective experiences with wheelchair use during rehabilitation: A qualitative study through physiotherapists' perspectives

The interaction between users and mobility aids, including emotional attachment and functional expectations, influences their perceptions and decisions on acceptance and continued use during rehabilitation. Tracking interactions during rehabilitation helps identify key intervention points, leading to effective therapeutic relationships and user-centered mobility aid designs. This study aims to track the dynamics of affective experiences (DAE) of wheelchair users (WUs) during a planned rehabilitation timeframe and recommend how to manage these dynamics. To this end, initially, the product experience framework was applied for the development of interview guidelines and analysis. Next, adopting a qualitative approach, semi-structured, in-depth interviews with 12 experienced physiotherapists were conducted in Iran. Transcripts were then analyzed using a thematic analysis framework to identify themes. A total of three themes have been identified which include: 1) Coping in Using the Wheelchair, 2) Reluctant Acceptance of the Wheelchair: Adjusting to the New Normal, and 3) Approaching Recovery: Challenges in Over-reliance. Additionally, two diagrams illustrating the dynamics of the affective experience of WUs and its influencing factors during rehabilitation have been provided. This study shows that the affective experience of WUs is not static and changes through various stages of rehabilitation. This dynamic is influenced by factors of emotional and functional importance, both of which often grow after initial resistance but follow varied patterns. However, emotional attachment can sometimes lead to over-reliance even after recovery, posing challenges in the rehabilitation. Physiotherapists can help balance this attachment, influencing users' affective experiences with their wheelchairs.