Date of Award
2025
Document Type
Scholarly Project
Degree Name
Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD)
Department
Occupational Therapy
First Advisor
Wanda Lauer
Abstract
Introduction: Chronic conditions are among the most common health concerns, and often cause disruption to daily routines, roles, self-identity, and quality of life (Fields & Smallfield, 2022). In fact, they are the leading cause of disability in the United States (Centers for Disease Control, 2019). It is estimated that 129 million adults are living with at least one chronic condition as defined by the US Department of Health and Human Services (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2020). Trying to manage a chronic condition is extremely time consuming, with people spending at least two hours every day on health-related activities to manage the condition, thus taking away time and energy from other important occupations, and other limitations that prevent them from fully engaging in meaningful activities which can make the symptoms and condition worse (Lambdin-Pattavina & Pyatak, 2022).
Methodology: The Model of Human Occupation (MOHO) guided this scholarly project. A literature review, needs assessment, clinical experience in outpatient and assisted living facilities, and collaboration with the interdisciplinary team took place to determine the needs of population with chronic conditions. The literature review was conducted using CINAHL and PubMed databases.
Results: The resource that was created consisted of resources for understanding chronic conditions, patient resources, caregiver resources, and educational resources on the diagnoses and care team. These resources addressed the unmet needs of patients with chronic conditions. Resources were disseminated through an online platform titled mOTivated: Living with a Chronic Condition. Materials were also provided via hard copy to occupational therapy practitioners at the facility.
Discussion: This resource was intended to address factors influencing occupational identity and occupational competence for individuals who have chronic illnesses. The materials provided can be utilized in various ways to support performance and participation in daily life tasks. It should be noted that these resources can be individualized for each patient’s needs to improve outcomes. With access to these resources, patients will have increased motivation to continue engaging in meaningful occupations.
Recommended Citation
Rude, Aubrey, "ENHANCING QUALITY OF LIFE: OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY’S ROLE IN MANAGING CHRONIC CONDITIONS" (2025). Occupational Therapy Capstones. 659.
https://commons.und.edu/ot-grad/659