Fourth anniversary of the Journal of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences (JHRS)

Dear Colleagues,

Today, 1 August 2026, it is with immense pride, gratitude, and a profound sense of accomplishment that we celebrate the fourth anniversary of the Journal of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences (JHRS).

Over the past four years, JHRS has evolved from an ambitious vision into a respected international peer-reviewed scientific journal, serving as a dynamic platform for the dissemination of high-quality research in the fields of health, medicine, rehabilitation sciences, and related disciplines. Although relatively young, the journal has steadily established its place within the international academic community through its unwavering commitment to scientific excellence, editorial integrity, and open scholarly exchange.

Throughout this remarkable journey, JHRS has brought together an outstanding international Editorial Board, distinguished authors, dedicated reviewers, and readers from across the globe. Together, we have fostered interdisciplinary collaboration, promoted evidence-based knowledge, and contributed to the advancement of scientific communication for the benefit of researchers, clinicians, educators, and society as a whole.

On this special occasion, I would like to express my deepest appreciation to Alma Mater Europaea University (AMEU), the main publisher of JHRS, and to the University's leadership for their continuous trust, strategic vision, and unwavering institutional support. Their confidence in our mission and their commitment to academic excellence have been the cornerstone upon which the journal has grown and flourished.

My sincere gratitude also goes to every author who entrusted JHRS with the publication of their scientific work. Your research, innovation, and dedication have shaped the identity and scientific value of our journal. I am equally grateful to our reviewers, whose professionalism, expertise, and generosity of time ensure that every published article meets the highest standards of scientific quality. I also extend my heartfelt thanks to every member of our Editorial Board, whose international experience, scholarly excellence, and continuous engagement have played a pivotal role in strengthening the reputation and global recognition of JHRS.

Serving as Editor-in-Chief during these four years has been both an extraordinary privilege and a profound responsibility. Behind every published issue lies countless hours of dedicated work, thoughtful editorial decisions, meticulous communication with authors and reviewers, and a shared commitment to maintaining the highest ethical and publishing standards. Every manuscript has represented an opportunity not only to disseminate new knowledge but also to contribute to the advancement of science and to uphold the values of academic integrity and excellence.

This anniversary is not merely a celebration of the years behind us—it is a celebration of a shared vision, collective dedication, and the remarkable achievements of an international scholarly community. More importantly, it marks the beginning of a new chapter. Our ambitions remain clear and unwavering: to continue raising the scientific quality of the journal, expand its international visibility and impact, strengthen its position within the world's leading bibliographic databases, and establish JHRS as a journal of first choice for researchers in health, medical, and rehabilitation sciences.

None of these achievements would have been possible without the collective efforts, trust, and enthusiasm of our contributors, reviewers, Editorial Board and Editorial Office members, readers, and institutional partners. Your commitment has been the driving force behind every milestone we have reached and the greatest inspiration for everything that still lies ahead.

As we celebrate this fourth anniversary, we also reaffirm our dedication to promoting scientific excellence, fostering international collaboration, and supporting the dissemination of knowledge that ultimately improves healthcare, rehabilitation, and the quality of life of individuals worldwide.

Thank you for being part of this inspiring journey. I look forward with great optimism to the many achievements that the future holds for the Journal of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences.

With sincere appreciation and warm regards,

Editor-in-Chief

Journal of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences (JHRS)

Job Opportunity: IT Web Administrator & Copy Editor for the Journal of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences (JHRS)

The Journal of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences (JHRS) is seeking a reliable, motivated, and dedicated professional to join our editorial team as an IT Web Administrator and Copy Editor.

This is an excellent opportunity for an individual interested in academic publishing, journal management, and digital editorial workflows. A competitive and fair honorarium will be provided for the successful candidate.

Main Responsibilities:

• Managing and maintaining the journal’s online platform;
• Providing technical support for the journal website and editorial workflow;
• Performing administrative tasks within the Open Journal Systems (OJS) platform;
• Assisting with manuscript processing and editorial communication;
• Copy editing manuscripts according to academic publishing standards;
• Ensuring accuracy, consistency, and quality of published content.

Required Qualifications and Skills. The ideal candidate should have:

• Practical knowledge and experience with Open Journal Systems (OJS);
• Good IT skills and ability to manage web-based platforms;
• Excellent English language skills, especially academic and scientific English editing;
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills;
• Ability to complete assigned tasks efficiently and within deadlines;
• A proactive, responsible, and solution-oriented approach;
• Commitment, loyalty, and long-term interest in supporting the development of JHRS.

We are looking for a person who is not only technically competent but also reliable, dedicated, and willing to become an important part of our journal’s growth and international development.

Interested candidates are invited to send their CV and a short motivation letter to the editorial office of JHRS on folowing email.

Journal of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences building excellence in health, rehabilitation, and interdisciplinary scientific publishing!

JHRS Editorial Team

Social Skills, Aberrant Behavior, and Quality of Life Among Autistic Students: Findings from a Longitudinal Cohort Study

Bushra Hossain

University of California San Francisco 

https://orcid.org/0000-0001-5492-6499 (unauthenticated)

Felicia Widjaja

University of California San Francisco 

https://orcid.org/0009-0004-4813-3061 (unauthenticated)

Stephen Bent

University of California San Francisco 

https://orcid.org/0000-0002-4767-9714 (unauthenticated)

China Parenteau

University of California San Francisco 

https://orcid.org/0000-0001-6812-9263 (unauthenticated)

Michael G. McDonald

Oak Hill School 

https://orcid.org/0009-0001-2491-2069 (unauthenticated)

Robert L. Hendren

University of California San Francisco 

https://orcid.org/0000-0001-8470-4862 (unauthenticated)

DOI: https://doi.org/10.33700/jhrs.5.1.208

Abstract

Objective: To examine the average change over time in behavior, social skills, and quality of life for autistic individuals, and to investigate any potential associations between the outcomes.

Methods: This six-year longitudinal cohort study included 50 participants (aged 7-19 years) with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) from a specialized school. Evaluations for Aberrant Behavior Checklist (ABC), Social Responsiveness Scale (SRS) and Pediatric Quality of Life (PedsQL) 4.0 were completed by parents and teachers every 3 months. Mixed-effects models were used to detect significant changes in the mean ABC, SRS and PedsQL across timepoints, and to examine any longitudinal relationships between the outcomes.

Results: There were statistically significant improvements in the mean teacher-reported ABC (p=0.002), parent-reported SRS (p=0.006), teacher-reported SRS (p=0.003), and PedsQL (p<0.001) over time for all participants, but not for parent-reported ABC (p=0.5). There were significant longitudinal associations between PedsQL and parent-reported ABC (p=0.03), and between PedsQL and SRS (parent: p=0.03; teacher: p=0.001) within an individual.

Conclusions: The significant improvement in behavior, social responsiveness, and quality of life in these autistic children and young adults suggests that the specialized learning environment may have been beneficial. It also highlights the importance of providing collaborative and personalized therapeutic care and education programs for the ASD population.

Keywords: autism spectrum disorder, social skills, behavior, quality of life, school

Full Text Article

Healthcare Professionals’ Knowledge, Experience, and Training in Caring for Autistic Adults: A Systematic review

Fiona Rigney
SETU Waterford
https://orcid.org/0009-0002-5636-8974 (unauthenticated)

Sharon Kinsella
South East Technological University Carlow
https://orcid.org/0000-0001-9051-4467 (unauthenticated)

Mary Moylan
South East Technological University Waterford
https://orcid.org/0000-0003-0235-9749 (unauthenticated)

Zeta Dooly
South East Technological University Waterford
https://orcid.org/0000-0001-6777-9862 (unauthenticated)

Mary Doherty
University College Dublin
https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6995-3745 (unauthenticated)

Nicole Rinehart
Monash University
https://orcid.org/0000-0001-6109-3958 (unauthenticated)
Martina Gooney
South East Technological University Waterford
https://orcid.org/0000-0003-1499-3472 (unauthenticated)

DOI: https://doi.org/10.33700/jhrs.5.1.224

Abstract

Introduction: Autistic adults experience high rates of co-occurring physical and mental health conditions and often face unmet needs in all healthcare settings due to communication differences, sensory sensitivities, and atypical presentations. Healthcare professionals (HCPs) play a central role in addressing these needs; however, evidence suggests there are significant gaps in autism-specific knowledge and training.
Aim: Examine HCPs knowledge, experience, and training related to caring for autistic adults.
Methods: A systematic review was conducted according to the PRISMA guidelines. Studies were retrieved from five databases (Scopus, PsycINFO, PubMed, Medline and Web of Science). Nineteen studies were included in the final analysis.
Results: Findings across studies indicated that HCPs possess limited and inconsistent autism-specific knowledge, and have common deficits, with notable gaps in communication, recognition of autistic adults, and management of sensory and co-occurring health needs. Clinical experience caring for autistic adults was variable and often limited. Autism-specific training was inconsistent and typically brief, with between one-third and three-quarters of HCPs reporting unmet training needs.
Conclusion: This review highlighted substantial gaps in HCPs’ autism-specific knowledge, training, and experience, contributing to barriers in healthcare for autistic adults Findings highlight a clear need for standardised, evidence-based autism education across undergraduate training and continuing professional development. Future work is needed to establish coherent structured curricula with the meaningful involvement of autistic adults in the design and delivery of training and education to support person-centred healthcare.

Keywords: Autistic adults, healthcare professionals, knowledge, training, experience

Full Text Article

Parental bonding in individuals with autism spectrum disorder: insights through the separation individuation lens

Simona Rogič Ožek

National Education Institute of Slovenia, National School for Leadership in Education, Ljubljana, Slovenia 

https://orcid.org/0009-0003-5739-4194 (unauthenticated)

DOI: https://doi.org/10.33700/jhrs.5.1.210

Abstract

Introduction: This study examines how individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) perceive early relationships with their parents, framing these perceptions within Mahler’s separation-individuation process and Bowlby’s attachment theory. Early parent-child interaction is conceptualized as a reciprocal developmental process shaped primarily by ASD-related communication profiles and parental responses to these developmental characteristics and other various factors that contribute to parent-child interaction.

Objectives: The study aims to investigate whether adults with and without ASD differ in their perceptions of parental bonding – specifically care and overprotection – and to explore how adults with ASD describe early relational experiences with both mothers and fathers.

Methods: A mixed‑methods design was applied to deepen understanding of both measurable and subjective relational patterns. Quantitatively, 38 adults with ASD and 100 adults without ASD completed the Parental Bonding Instrument (PBI), assessing each parent separately. Reliability was examined using Cronbach’s alpha, and group differences were tested with independent sample t‑tests. Qualitatively, semi‑structured interviews with 18 adults with ASD were analyzed using inductive thematic analysis to capture lived experiences of early relational processes and to triangulate quantitative findings.

Results: Adults with ASD reported significantly higher perceived maternal overprotection, whereas no differences emerged in perceived care. Qualitative analysis revealed heterogeneity in relational experiences, including emotional distance, misunderstandings, and limited autonomy, alongside examples of supportive parental behavior.

Conclusion: The findings indicate that perceptions of overprotection and relational challenges arise within a broader developmental and sociocultural context shaped by neurodivergent communication patterns, parental coping strategies, and prevailing intervention narratives. The results highlight the need for parent support programs that promote relational sensitivity, autonomy support, and a nuanced understanding of ASD-specific developmental characteristics, rather than attributing relational difficulties to parents.

Keywords: autism spectrum disorder, perception of parental bonding, parent-child interaction, separation-individuation process, overprotection, professional support

Full Text Article

A Growing International Community of Reviewers at the Journal of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences (JHRS)

Dear readers,

As of July 6, 2026, the Journal of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences (JHRS) is proud to be supported by 105 distinguished reviewers from 24 countries across Europe, North America, Asia, Australia, and South America.

Our international reviewer community includes colleagues from the United States (16 reviewers), Serbia (14), Macedonia (13), the United Kingdom (8), Croatia (8), Slovenia (7), Hungary (4), India (4), Germany (3), Ireland (3), Italy (3), Lithuania (3), Poland (3), Spain (3), Canada (2), the Netherlands (2), Australia (1), Austria (1), Bosnia and Herzegovina (1), Brazil (1), Bulgaria (1), Cyprus (1), Greece (1), Latvia (1), Moldova (1), Saudi Arabia (1), and Türkiye (1).

This international network reflects the journal's commitment to scientific excellence, rigorous peer review, and global collaboration in health and rehabilitation sciences.

We extend our sincere gratitude to all of our reviewers for generously sharing their expertise, time, and dedication. Your invaluable contributions help ensure the quality, integrity, and impact of every article published in JHRS.

Thank you for being an essential part of the JHRS community!

JHRS Editor-in-chief

Effects of Sports Rehabilitation and Caregiver-Led Home-Based Exercise on Gross Motor Function and Therapy Engagement in Children with Developmental Disabilities

Jihun Hwang

Seoul National University Hospital 

https://orcid.org/0009-0007-6748-5865 (unauthenticated)

Chunghwi Yi

Yonsei University Mirae Campus 

https://orcid.org/0000-0003-2554-8083 (unauthenticated)

Jongmin Lee

SMG-SNU Boramae Medical Center 

https://orcid.org/0000-0002-1299-3105 (unauthenticated)

DOI: https://doi.org/10.33700/jhrs.5.1.205

Abstract

Aim: This study aimed to compare the effectiveness of a hospital-based sports rehabilitation program (SRP) versus a home-based exercise program (HEP) on motor function, participation-related, and therapy engagement outcomes in children with developmental disabilities and to evaluate feasibility and safety.

Methods: This exploratory randomized pilot study allocated 16 children to SRP or HEP (1:1) using block randomization stratified by Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS) level. Both interventions were delivered for 8 weeks. Outcomes included Gross Motor Function Measure (GMFM), Pediatric Balance Scale (PBS), Canadian Occupational Performance Measure (COPM-Performance/Satisfaction), Pediatric Volitional Questionnaire (PVQ), and Goal Attainment Scaling (GAS; T-score). A 2×2 mixed ANOVA (group × time) was used for most outcomes, and an independent t-test was used for GAS T-scores.

Results: Both groups showed significant improvements over time in GMFM and PBS (p < 0.001). Group-by-time interactions favored SRP for COPM–Performance (p = 0.038), COPM–Satisfaction (p = 0.025), and PVQ (p = 0.038). The GAS T-scores did not differ between the groups (p = 0.645). Feasibility criteria were met (≥75% adherence, fidelity, and exercise dose).

Conclusion: Both interventions were feasible and safe over 8 weeks. The SRP may confer greater benefits for participation-related outcomes. Future adequately powered trials with a longer follow-up period are warranted to confirm these findings.

Keywords: developmental disabilities, sports rehabilitation, home-based exercise, gross motor function, participation, feasibility

Full Text Article

Families as System Actors in Discovery: Embedding Co-Production Within the Equilibrium Systems Model of Employment

Peter Smith

Centre for Disability Employment Research and Practice 

https://orcid.org/0000-0001-9888-8113 (unauthenticated)

DOI: https://doi.org/10.33700/jhrs.5.1.202

Abstract

Background: Discovery is a core practice within Customised Employment, intended to identify the strengths, interests, and support needs of people with disability to inform meaningful employment pathways. Despite strong evidence that families influence employment outcomes, their role within Discovery remains informal, inconsistent, and largely untheorised.

Aim: This paper examines the role of families within Discovery and proposes a structured model for embedding family involvement as a core component of inclusive employment practice.

Methods: Drawing on the Equilibrium Systems Model of Employment (ESME), international literature, and applied practice experience, the paper develops the Family Discovery Model as a conceptual and practice-informed framework. The model is examined in relation to co-production theory, Customised Employment fidelity, and contemporary disability employment policy contexts.

Results: The Family Discovery Model positions families as system actors who contribute through narrative building, network mapping, and collaborative reflection. These functions strengthen employment planning, improve alignment between participant goals and service delivery, and enhance system coherence. Practice-based vignettes demonstrate how structured family involvement can support school-to-work transitions, movement from segregated employment, and pathway development for individuals with complex support needs.

Conclusion: Embedding families as co-producers within Discovery offers a practical and scalable mechanism for strengthening rehabilitation practice and advancing inclusive employment systems. By operationalising family involvement within a structured framework, the model supports improved employment outcomes, greater fidelity to Customised Employment principles, and stronger alignment with contemporary disability policy objectives.

Keywords: customised employment, family involvement, disability employment, co-production, systems theory, rehabilitation

Full Text Article

Impact of Information and Communication technology use on well-being of older adults in the (post)Covid-19 pandemic

Nikolaj Lipič

Alma Mater Europaea University, Department of Social Gerontology 

https://orcid.org/0009-0003-7370-3188 (unauthenticated)

Mitja Bagari

University Alma Mater Europaea, Department of Social Gerontology 

https://orcid.org/0009-0003-2263-5162 (unauthenticated)

Nejc Krašovec

University Alma Mater Europaea, Department of Social Gerontology 

https://orcid.org/0009-0009-7594-9089 (unauthenticated)

Marija Ovsenik

University Alma Mater Europaea, Department of Social Gerontology 

https://orcid.org/0009-0005-3482-0386 (unauthenticated)

DOI: https://doi.org/10.33700/jhrs.5.1.219

Abstract

Introduction: The period during and after the Covid-19 pandemic is marked by accelerated digitalization and digital transformation. For most older adults, use of Information and Communication technology (ICT) presents numerous challenges and dilemmas, as well as facing hardships and dangers. The latter affects well-being of older adults. Therefore, primary objective of the study is to examine ICT use impact on well-being of older adults in the (post) Covid-19 pandemic.

Methods: Qualitative research approach was applied, as data were collected through semi-structured, in-depth and individual interviews with 15 older adults aged between 65 and 87. Collected data was analyzed using conventional qualitative content analysis.

Results: Older adults have different perceptions of impact of increased ICT use on their well-being during and after the Covid-19 pandemic. Some reported positive effects of increased ICT use on their well-being, particularly in maintaining social contacts, greater connections with others and improved accessibility of communication during limited in-person contact. Greater digital confidence was also mentioned. Increased ICT use during the pandemic was not a universal experience for all older adults.

Conclusion: Older adults, who use ICT moderately or regularly, ICT use maintained or even encouraged their well-being, while for some it had no effect. Recommendations of older adults for decision-makers in the field of digitalization and well-being of older adults are an important contribution of the study. Basic digital literacy of older adults, while taking into account circumstances of their well-being, is also an important factor of the study.

Keywords: well-being, ICT use, older adults, digitalization, digital transformation, Covid-19, satisfaction, digital self-confidence

Full Text Article

Socio-Gerontological Perspectives on Disease-Modifying Alzheimer’s Therapies (Lecanemab): A Delphi Study in Central Europe

Natasa Standeker

Alma Mater Europaea University 

https://orcid.org/0000-0002-4404-0907 (unauthenticated)

Šefik Salkunič

Alma Mater Europaea University, Department of Social Gerontology, Maribor, Slovenia University Clinical Centre Maribor 

https://orcid.org/0000-0001-5862-202X (unauthenticated)

Jana Goriup

Alma Mater Europaea University, Department of Social Gerontology, Maribor, Slovenia https://orcid.org/0009-0001-8926-084X (unauthenticated)

Kristijan Jejčič

Alma Mater Europaea University, Department of Social Gerontology, Maribor, Slovenia

Mateja BerčanAlma Mater Europaea University, Department of Social Gerontology, Maribor, Slovenia https://orcid.org/0009-0001-1157-876X (unauthenticated)

DOI: https://doi.org/10.33700/jhrs.5.1.222

Abstract

Introduction: This study examines experts forecasts on societal, ethical, and structural challenges of DMT introduction in Austria, Slovenia, and Bosnia and Herzegovina—countries differing in care models and cultural attitudes toward dementia.

Aim: The aim of this study was to explore experts perspectives on the societal, ethical, and systemic implications of introducing disease-modifying Alzheimer’s therapies in Central European care contexts.

Methods: A three-round Delphi study engaged 10 multidisciplinary experts . The panel included three full professors (PhD) specialising in sociology, law and psychology, three medical doctors (MD) with specialisations in psychiatry, gerontology and geriatrics, two associate professors (PhD) in social gerontology, and one professor of public health (PhD).

Results: Strong consensus emerged on six priorities: (1) public and professional awareness/education (x̄=9.71), (2) tailored long-term care models (x̄=9.71), (3) faster drug access (x̄=9.43), (4) open dialogue to reduce stigma (x̄=8.57), (5) integrating cultural beliefs and funding (x̄=8.29), and (6) accessibility despite pricing (x̄=8.29).

Conclusion: Despite systemic disparities, experts across contexts identified shared challenges. Successful DMT integration demands culturally sensitive destigmatization, professional training, and community-based LTC adaptation.

Keywords: Alzheimer’s disease, Lecanemab, Delphi method, Long-term care, Health equity, Social gerontology

Full Text Article