Refocusing rehabilitation of persons with neuromuscular diseases using the capability approach

Abstract

In the neuromuscular outpatient clinic of the department of Rehabilitation, a new rehabilitation approach has been developed based on a theory on well-being. This new approach focuses on opportunities of people to do and be what is of value to them. Examples of values are friendship, acquiring knowledge, enjoying art or nature, or having a feeling of safety and security. This new approach has been compared to the traditional rehabilitation approach. The results showed that with both approaches the performance and satisfaction of persons with neuromuscular diseases on their valuable activities improved. This project has been a first attempt for application of the new approach. Healthcare professionals and persons with neuromuscular diseases had to get used to the new approach. However, it is worth pursuing this approach further.