Réappropriation de l’espace résidentiel des familles où vit une personne lésée médullaire

Abstract

Background.

To date, we do not know how home adaptations transform the residential experience of people with disabilities and their families.

Purpose.

This study aimed to describe the residential reappropriation process of people with spinal cord injury and their families.

Method.

Interviews with 31 people with spinal cord injuries and 31 family members focused on the adaptations, satisfaction with the adaptations, territorial behaviour at home, and family functioning.

Findings.

Adaptations aimed to sustain the disabled person’s autonomy and mobility. Participants were satisfied with the physical adaptations, particularly in regard to convenience and feeling safe. Territorial behaviour supported the need for control and freedom. A more successful reappropriation process was associated with more effective family functioning.

Implications.

Territorial behaviours and effective family functioning should be considered by occupational therapists working with families.