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The aim of the study was to describe occupational therapists' work with leisure activities in rehabilitation of older adults. In order to describe occupational therapists' work, five occupational therapists working in community or day service settings were interviewed. The occupational therapists had between 5 and 38 years of experience. Interviews were analysed using a qualitative content analysis. The data analysis formed three categories: ”Framework and regulations when working with leisure activities; Strategies used to facilitate client participation in leisure activities; Occupational therapists' thoughts on leisure activities”. Results showed that working with leisure activities was complex. Occupational therapists had responsibility towards the service provider to work in accordance with guidelines and goals. Based on those, the occupational therapists had different strategies for meeting the clients’ needs regarding leisure activities. However, the occupational therapist did not always take an active part in interventions; rather they referred the client to others for continued support. The use of mobility equipment was considered a central aspect in facilitating leisure activities. By following prescription guidelines the occupational therapists were restricted in facilitating leisure activities through prescribing mobility equipment. However, occupational therapists were able to develop a way of providing the client with mobility equipment by combining interventions based on every day activities and leisure activities. The occupational therapists emphasized the positive effects of leisure activities on well-being, and the perceived meaning of leisure activities for elderly clients. Occupational therapy as a profession should determine whether service providers consider the competence of the profession in order to enable a holistic approach and by doing so, work to preserve the theoretical foundations of the profession. Validerat; 20140606 (global_studentproject_submitter) |
