Short answer

Develop standardized yet flexible co-design frameworks that explicitly address the unique needs and potential challenges of participants with acquired neurological disabilities, and invest in training for facilitators.

Field: User-Centred Design
Source: Brain Impairment (2025)
Method: Scoping literature review with thematic synthesis.
Evidence: Moderate effect

While co-design is highly valued by individuals with acquired neurological disabilities, its implementation varies, highlighting a need for clearer methodologies and enhanced facilitator support to optimize participation. This user-centred design research insight is drawn from a 2025 study published in Brain Impairment. Using Scoping literature review with thematic synthesis., researchers explored how this design variable affects real-world outcomes. The key design takeaway: Develop standardized yet flexible co-design frameworks that explicitly address the unique needs and potential challenges of participants with acquired neurological disabilities, and invest in training for facilitators.

Study

User-Centred DesignNew This WeekModerate effect

Co-designing with individuals with acquired neurological disability yields meaningful experiences but requires refined processes.

Brain Impairment · 2025

Key Findings

01Co-design is a valued experience by participants with acquired neurological disability, health professionals, and researchers.
02There is significant variability in the definition, recruitment, timing, and roles within co-design processes.
03Participants described co-design as a meaningful experience, but also noted challenges in balancing group dynamics and navigating an unfamiliar process.

Application

Design takeaway

How to apply

When initiating a co-design project with a vulnerable or specific user group, begin by clearly defining the scope, roles, and expected outcomes, and provide comprehensive support and training for all involved, especially facilitators.

Project actions

01When planning a co-design project, clearly define the roles of each participant and the facilitator.
02Consider how to support participants who may have communication or cognitive challenges.
03Reflect on the 'unfamiliar process' aspect and how to make co-design more accessible.

Method & Evidence

AimTo understand the application, experiences, and optimal implementation of co-design methodologies with adults who have acquired neurological disabilities.

MethodScoping literature review with thematic synthesis.

ProcedureSystematic searches were conducted across multiple databases (CINAHL, MEDLINE, PsycINFO, Scopus, Embase) for qualitative or mixed-methods studies. Data were extracted and analyzed thematically to identify patterns in co-design implementation and user experiences.

ContextHealthcare and community support for adults with acquired neurological disability.

Variables

IV["Co-design methodology implementation (e.g., recruitment, timing, roles)","Facilitator training and support"]

DV["Participant experience (meaningfulness, group dynamics, process familiarity)","Effectiveness of co-design outcomes"]

CV["Type of acquired neurological disability","Specific co-design tools or techniques used"]

Strengths & Limitations

Strengths

+Comprehensive scoping review methodology.
+Thematic synthesis provides rich insights into user experiences.

Limitations

The findings are based on a review of existing studies, which may have their own methodological limitations. The specific neurological conditions of participants were not detailed, limiting generalizability to all acquired neurological disabilities.

Reliability & validity

The reliability of the findings depends on the quality and consistency of the included studies. Validity is enhanced by the systematic review process and thematic synthesis, which aim to capture a broad range of experiences.

Think critically

How can the identified variability in co-design implementation be reduced without stifling creativity and adaptability for specific user needs?

Design Principles

"User participation in design should be structured to maximize meaningful contribution and minimize process-related barriers."

This research underscores the importance of inclusive design practices by demonstrating that co-design, when effectively implemented, can lead to deeply meaningful experiences for users with specific needs. It calls for a more structured approach to co-design, recognizing that the process itself can be a barrier if not carefully managed.

What This Means for Your Design

Co-design is a great way to involve people with brain injuries in designing things for them, but we need to be clearer about how to do it and make sure the people running the sessions are well-trained.

How to use in your project

1.Reference this study when discussing the benefits and challenges of user involvement in your design project.
2.Use the findings to justify your choice of user research methods and your approach to participant engagement.

Add to My Project

Quick Cite

Paragraph starter

This research highlights the significant value of co-design for individuals with acquired neurological disabilities, noting that while the experience is often meaningful, the process itself can be unfamiliar and challenging. The study emphasizes the need for clearer operationalization of co-design methodologies and robust facilitator support to optimize user involvement and ensure equitable participation in design projects.

Source

Brain Impairment

Co-designing with adults with acquired neurological disability in the community: a scoping review and thematic synthesis

journal · 2025

View source

Questions About This Research

What does the research say about co-designing with individuals with acquired neurological disability yields meaningful experiences but requires refined processes?: Develop standardized yet flexible co-design frameworks that explicitly address the unique needs and potential challenges of participants with acquired neurological disabilities, and invest in training for facilitators. Evidence: Brain Impairment (2025).
Why does "Co-designing with individuals with acquired neurological disability yields meaningful experiences but requires refined processes." matter for design?: This research underscores the importance of inclusive design practices by demonstrating that co-design, when effectively implemented, can lead to deeply meaningful experiences for users with specific needs. It calls for a more structured approach to co-design, recognizing that the process itself can be a barrier if not carefully managed.
How can designers apply this research?: Develop standardized yet flexible co-design frameworks that explicitly address the unique needs and potential challenges of participants with acquired neurological disabilities, and invest in training for facilitators.
What were the main findings?: Co-design is a valued experience by participants with acquired neurological disability, health professionals, and researchers.. There is significant variability in the definition, recruitment, timing, and roles within co-design processes.. Participants described co-design as a meaningful experience, but also noted challenges in balancing group dynamics and navigating an unfamiliar process.
What research method was used?: Scoping literature review with thematic synthesis..
How strong is the evidence?: Evidence strength is rated Moderate effect, based on a 2025 journal from Brain Impairment.
What should I do differently in my next project?: When initiating a co-design project with a vulnerable or specific user group, begin by clearly defining the scope, roles, and expected outcomes, and provide comprehensive support and training for all involved, especially facilitators.
What are the limitations?: The review is limited by the variability and potential lack of standardization in the original studies, and the focus on qualitative data may not capture all aspects of co-design effectiveness.