METHODS: A qualitative phenomenological study involved 30 older adults aged ≥ 60 years who received rehabilitation services between 2018 and 2024, with caregiver proxies participating when necessary. Semi-structured telephone interviews were conducted in Malay, Chinese, or English and were audio-recorded. The recordings were transcribed and translated into English using an automated speech recognition model (OpenAI Whisper). Transcripts were analysed using an AI-assisted thematic analysis framework and classified into eight predefined domains based on sentence-embedding similarity with human review. Segments were manually coded as barriers or facilitators, and scored for sentiment using a rule-based tool (NLTK VADER). Inter-coder reliability was assessed using Cohen's kappa.

RESULTS: Distance to rehabilitation services and limited transportation were the main barriers to the continuity of care. Financial costs related to travel, treatment, and assistive devices further limited attendance, and some participants reported service constraints. Strong family and community support facilitated rehabilitation engagement. Telehealth was frequently suggested as a means of providing rehabilitation guidance and maintaining continuity of care.