Occupational therapy in overweight and obesity care: Australian perspectives from a mixed methods study.

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.