Experiences of a Mindfulness-Based Telehealth Program Modified for Adults with Cerebral Palsy-A Qualitative Study.

Adults with cerebral palsy (CP) who participated in a 9-week mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) telehealth program reported building a personal toolkit of mindfulness techniques, applying these strategies in daily life, and valuing the online group setting with expert facilitation. Participants suggested improvements: adding a group orientation, shortening sessions to reduce fatigue, and offering follow-up sessions to sustain skills. The study provides new knowledge about the experiences of adults with CP in MBSR telehealth programs, with recommendations for future implementation.

Study at a glance

Abstract

Backgrounds/Objectives: Mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) programs may have applications for adults with cerebral palsy (CP), particularly as this population is at increased risk of mental health challenges relative to the general population. However, little is known about the experiences of adults with CP participating in these programs. The aim of this study was to explore the experiences of adults with CP, and a facilitator, who participated in a 9-week MBSR telehealth program. Methods: Adults who attended an MBSR telehealth program were invited to participate in focus groups. If a participant was unable to attend a focus group, they were offered a semi-structured interview. The facilitator participated in a semi-structured interview. Focus groups and interviews were recorded, transcribed verbatim, and inductively thematically analyzed using Framework Analysis. Results: Ten adults with CP and one facilitator participated. Feedback on the program spanned across three themes: (i) learning and creating my mindfulness toolbox; (ii) applying mindfulness to everyday life; and (iii) online together with expert facilitation. Participants appreciated having access to a variety of mindfulness techniques to accommodate individual preferences. Peer-learning in a facilitated, online group context was also valued. Participants recalled implementing mindfulness strategies in everyday life and provided recommendations of how to improve the program. These included incorporating a group orientation, shortening group sessions to reduce fatigue, and follow-up sessions to maintain mindfulness skills after program completion. Conclusions: This study provides new knowledge about the perspectives of adults with CP regarding MBSR delivered via telehealth. Participant recommendations should inform future implementation of group mindfulness telehealth programs for adults with CP.