Abstract
There is a trend towards the formalization of the rehabilitation process for older rehabilitants in a Challenging Rehabilitation Environment (CRE). This concept involves the comprehensive organization of care, support, and environment on rehabilitation wards. So far, literature on the principles of the CRE is scarce. This study aims to explore the perspectives regarding the CRE of healthcare professionals through a qualitative study. Therefore, between 2018 and 2020, six international and 69 Dutch professionals were interviewed in focus groups, and 180 professionals attended workshops on two Dutch congresses. Data were thematically analyzed using ATLAS.ti. Seven themes emerged regarding the rehabilitation processes: (1) rehabilitant (attention for cognitive functioning and resilience); (2) goals (setting personal goals); (3) exercise (increasing exercise intensity); (4) daily schedule (following the daily rhythm); (5) involving the client system (involving informal caregivers); (6) nutrition (influences rehabilitation capability); and (7) technology (makes rehabilitation more safe and challenging). Regarding organizational aspects, four main themes were identified: (1) environmental aspects (encourages exercises); (2) staff aspects (interdisciplinary team); (3) organizational aspects (implementing CRE requires a shared vision); and (4) factors outside the ward (a well-prepared discharge process). To offer effective rehabilitation, all elements of the CRE should be applied. To improve the CRE, specific interventions need to be developed and implemented. Consequently, the effectiveness and efficiency of the CRE need to be measured with validated tools.