Occupational therapy in overweight and obesity care: Australian perspectives from a mixed methods study
Year: 2024
Type: article
Abstract: BACKGROUND: Obesity and being overweight can hinder participation in daily activities and impact engagement. Occupational therapists offer a unique perspective on this issue, yet their practice is seldom described in the literature. AIM: To explore how Australian occupational therapists use their occupational perspective when working with people who are obese or overweight. METHODS: A qualitative dominant crossover mixed methods approach was adopted. Eleven semi-structured interviews with occupational therapists were conducted and analysed. Questions explored clinical decision-making, barriers, facilitators, and therapist knowledge and confidence about working with these clients. Three Likert scale questions on client contact frequency, perceived intervention effectiveness and knowledge of weight-related occupational therapy provided contextualisation. RESULTS: Occupational therapists reported average confidence and variability in the effectiveness of weight-related interventions. Three key themes were identified: 1) Exploring clients' needs for weight management; 2) Incorporating weight management strategies in occupational therapy intervention; and 3) Organisation of current occupational therapy practice for people with obesity. CONCLUSION: Occupational therapists should leverage an occupational perspective to enhance participation and engagement for people with obesity, thereby ensuring the client's best interests are met. SIGNIFICANCE: As change agents, occupational therapists can advocate for shifts in care culture, influence leadership and challenge systemic issues that limit occupational performance and participation for people with obesity.
Institutions: La Trobe University, Deakin University
Language: English
Subfield: Occupational Therapy
Field: Health Professions
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W4404832704