Defining Reablement in the Dutch Context: A Modified Delphi Study

Lise Elisabeth Buma,1– 3 Ines Mouchaers,1,2 Sandra MG Zwakhalen,1,2 Stan Vluggen,1,2,4 Ton Satink,5 Silke F Metzelthin1,2 1Department of Health Services Research, Care and Public Health Research Institute, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands; 2Living Laboratory in Ageing and Long-Term Care, Maastricht, the Netherlands; 3Cicero Zorggroep, Brunssum, the Netherlands; 4Academy of Nursing, Zuyd University of Applied Sciences, Heerlen, the Netherlands; 5Research Group Neurorehabilitation – Self-Regulation and Participation, HAN_University of Applied Sciences, Nijmegen, the NetherlandsCorrespondence: Lise Elisabeth Buma, Department of Health Services Research, Care and Public Health Research Institute, Maastricht University, P.O. Box 616, Maastricht, 6200 MD, the Netherlands, Tel +31 43 388 2815, Email [email protected]: For the past decade, the Netherlands has been developing and implementing reablement programs to promote independence and to empower older adults’ autonomy. However, a key challenge remains the lack of clarity around the definition of reablement and its relations to usual care practices. Existing international definitions lack specificity to account for contextual differences, such as variations in healthcare systems and cultural norms. An operational definition is needed that not only fits the Dutch health and social care system and incorporates context-specific elements. This study extends the original conceptual definition by integrating these elements, offering clearer, more practical guidance for real-world application.Materials and methods: A modified Delphi study was performed to develop a definition of reablement that fits the Dutch health and social care system, extending beyond conceptual understanding. The study comprised three expert rounds and three Delphi survey rounds.Results: A total of 139 participants from Dutch health and social care, education, research, and representatives of clients and informal caregivers, participated. They evaluated statements in four sections: the target group, aims, type of care or support, and characteristics of reablement programs. Key discussions during the expert rounds focused mainly on 1) the target group, emphasizing the importance of involving individuals and their families, and 2) the characteristics of reablement, such as coordinating roles, team composition, and size. Input from the Delphi surveys and expert rounds led to the development of an operational definition for the Dutch context, agreed upon by 81% of stakeholders.Conclusion: The Delphi methodology proved valuable in identifying context-specific elements and incorporating expert perspectives, creating a culturally and contextually sensitive definition. This definition distinguishes itself from the international version by offering practical guidance on areas of application and interventions, with a focus on promoting social participation, well-being, and the involvement of the individual’s social network.Keywords: restorative care, goal-oriented care, multidisciplinary collaboration, person-centered care