Evaluating illness representations in heart transplant patients.

The aim was to see whether qualitative analysis improved quantitative measurement of illness perception after heart transplant. Two methods of evaluating illness representations were compared: one quantitative (administration of the Illness Perception Questionnaire-Revised) and one qualitative (phenomenological reduction). The qualitative analysis provided greater insight into the idiosyncratic and dynamic nature of the concept of illness representations.

The use of a trained dog as a gait aid for clients with ataxia: a case report.

Purpose: To illustrate the use of a trained dog as a therapeutic tool to optimize physical and psychosocial adaptation of clients with ataxia.

Method: The gait pattern and gait speed of two people with cerebellar ataxia using different gait aids, including a trained intervention dog and an assistance dog, were compared. Participants' experience of working with the dogs was documented via semi-structured interviews.

Randomized controlled trial on the long-term efficacy of a multifaceted, interdisciplinary lifestyle intervention in reducing cardiovascular risk and improving lifestyle in patients at risk of cardiovascular disease.

The objective of the study was to evaluate the efficacy of an interdisciplinary intervention known as Educoeur in reducing cardiovascular risk and improving health behaviors in people without evidence of cardiovascular disease and to compare the Educoeur program to interventions in a specialized clinic and in usual care family practice. In a parallel, randomized, controlled trial of 185 adults with at least two modifiable cardiovascular risk factors, patients were randomly assigned to either Educoeur, specialized clinic or usual care. Cardiovascular risk, biological and lifestyle measures were assessed at baseline and at 2 years.