Investigating the usability of mobile technology for driving rehabilitation post-stroke: a mixed-methods analysis

BACKGROUND: Stroke can have significant effects on an individual's ability to drive and remains a leading cause of driving restrictions for medical reasons. Mobile applications show promise in addressing driving-related deficits. However, there is limited research on their use for driving rehabilitation. This study explored how community-dwelling individuals with stroke and their caregivers use and perceive a specific application, DriveFocus^®, for driving rehabilitation.Methods: A mixed-methods study with a triangulation design was conducted, tracking the use of DriveFocus^® by n = 11 participant dyads (individuals with stroke and their caregivers) over four weeks. Semi-structured interviews were conducted to provide insight into participants' perceptions of the application. Analysis of the results was guided by the Model of Acceptance of Mobile Technology by Older Adults (MAMTOA). RESULTS: Distinct patterns of use corresponding to the phases of the MAMTOA were identified. Two participants (n = 2/11) stopped using DriveFocus^® after the second week, while the remaining nine (n = 9/11) continued throughout the study. Initial perceptions of the applications' usefulness and participants' experiences with learning barriers influenced acceptance. Having "tech-savvy" family members and engaging with gamification features were crucial for sustained use. Participants highlighted the importance of occupational therapists in connecting their DriveFocus^® experience to their driving goal. DISCUSSION: Understanding the factors that contribute to the use and acceptance of mobile applications for driving rehabilitation by individuals with stroke plays a critical role in advancing how technology is used to address impairments post-stroke. Future research should explore clinicians' perspectives on implementing such technology in clinical practice.