Experience and Influence of Lifestyle Redesign ® Training in French–Canadian Occupational Therapists

Overview

This study examined the experience of French-Canadian occupational therapists and students regarding Lifestyle Redesign® training, a recognized cost-effective preventive intervention. The research explored the French-language adaptation of this approach and its influence on practitioner knowledge and behavioral intention to implement the intervention with older adults. The investigation employed cross-cultural validation methodology combined with action research design, incorporating pre-experimental components to assess changes in participant knowledge and practice intentions.

Methods and approach

The study utilized a mixed-methods approach incorporating cross-cultural validation and action research with a pre-experimental component. Participants comprised 24 women (20 occupational therapists and four occupational therapy students) aged 22 to 60 who completed the French version of the Lifestyle Redesign® training. Data collection involved semi-directed focus groups that were digitally audiotaped and transcribed. Analysis employed thematic content analysis methodology, with statistical comparison of pre- and post-training measures to assess changes in knowledge. The research evaluated participant experiences regarding the cultural adaptation and contextual relevance of the training content.

Key Findings

Participants demonstrated a statistically significant increase in knowledge following the French Lifestyle Redesign® training (p < .01). However, the training did not produce significant changes in participants' behavioral intention to offer this approach to older clients within the subsequent year. Participants reported favorable reception of the French-language version and noted that training themes demonstrated adaptation to Quebec context. Participants identified opportunities for optimization, including development of more structured, ready-to-implement course materials and incorporation of socio-constructivist pedagogical approaches.

Implications

The findings indicate that Lifestyle Redesign® training demonstrates cultural promise as a French-Canadian intervention, with the French version successfully conveying core knowledge content to occupational therapy practitioners and students. The knowledge gains achieved suggest adequate content translation and relevance for the target professional population. Further optimization of the French-Canadian iteration is warranted to enhance its pedagogical effectiveness and practical utility.

Scope and limitations

This summary is based on the study abstract and available metadata. It does not include a full analysis of the complete paper, supplementary materials, or underlying datasets unless explicitly stated. Findings should be interpreted in the context of the original publication.