Post-Hospitalization Telerehabilitation is Acceptable and Feasible for Veterans With Dementia: A Secondary Qualitative Study

Objectives The objective of this secondary analysis of qualitative data was to examine the acceptability and feasibility of telerehabilitation as a post-acute service delivery model for veterans with dementia. Methods We conducted a secondary analysis of qualitative, semistructured interview data from veterans who have a dementia diagnosis and were hospitalized, their care partners, and Department of Veterans Affairs rehabilitation clinicians. We conducted a directed content analysis using a rapid qualitative, deductive team-based approach. Results Our analysis of qualitative data from 11 veterans with dementia, 13 care partners, and 23 rehabilitation clinicians (Physical Therapists N = 11, Occupational Therapists N = 12), suggested that perceived telehealth acceptability and feasibility in post-acute care for veterans with dementia were interdependent factors. We identified that acceptability would likely be influenced by subthemes of (1) rehabilitation at the intersection of technology, cognitive impairment, and preferences; (2) telerehabilitation as a supplement to in-person care; and (3) telerehabilitation as a veteran-centered benefit. We also identified that feasibility of telerehabilitation could be supported by (1) veteran and clinician physical space, (2) usable technology with tailored support, (3) telerehabilitation-specific education, and (4) clinical resources and operations. Conclusion and Implications Telerehabilitation may be an acceptable model for veteran-centric, post-acute care for persons with dementia, particularly if veterans, care partners, and clinicians have support for feasibility. Future research is needed to examine post-acute telerehabilitation implementation, service delivery timing, and influence on patient-centered outcomes.