Occupation-based interventions

Stav and Herman (2022) completed a qualitative study to explore the experiences of nine occupational therapy practitioners who took part in a clinic makeover project aimed at supporting occupation-based practice. The clinic makeover involved removing exercise equipment (e.g., range of motion arc, resistive putty and bands, arm bike) and introducing occupation-based kits. These kits included all the materials necessary to complete specific ADLs (e.g., grooming), IADLs (e.g., pet care, money management), and leisure activities (e.g., woodworking, crocheting). As part of the makeover, the clinic kitchen was also stocked with cooking equipment and various food items. Occupational therapy practitioners were provided with an orientation to the occupation-based kits and asked to use the kits during intervention for a 4-month period. Practitioners who took part in the study recognized their reliance on using exercise equipment and found that developing occupation-based interventions took more creativity and time. Practitioners saw benefits related to occupation-based interventions, including improved client outcomes and therapeutic relationships. Clinic makeovers may support the use of occupation-based interventions, and occupational therapy practitioners should develop occupation-based kits for ADLs, IADLs, and leisure activities for use with their clients.