Feasibility of a Reablement Programme in Community Care in the Netherlands; A Qualitative Study

Introduction: Many older individuals face complex health and social care issues that require an integrated care approach. However, current health and social care services are often fragmented in terms of financing, organisation, and delivery, and therefore do not fit the needs of older individuals. Reablement is an innovative integrated approach that aims to ‘help individuals to help themselves’ by providing goal-oriented, person-centred care. An interdisciplinary team works intensively with individuals towards their goals, while considering their capabilities and contextual factors.

Description: The aim of this study was to assess the feasibility of a Dutch reablement programme in terms of acceptability, implementation, practicality, adaptation, integration, and limited efficacy. Using qualitative methods, six clients, three informal caregivers, eight care professionals, and one programme director were interviewed, complemented by data from electronic care files. Findings indicated positive stakeholder experiences.

Discussion: Despite positive experiences, three key challenges emerged: 1) behaviour change; 2) in- and external interprofessional collaboration; and 3) enrolment. The study underscores the complexity of implementing and integrating reablement in community care.

Conclusion: Our findings offer critical insights that could guide future efforts to implement reablement programmes more effectively.