A framework to guide occupational therapy scope of practice in the transition from work-to-retirement

Eagers, Jackie;Franklin, Richard;Broome, Kieran;Yau, Matthew

Abstract

Introduction: Work provides identity and shapes life, making the transition from work-to-retirement a major life event. Retirement precipitates a change in occupations people engage in. Occupational therapists are in a position to work within the work-to-retirement space. However, there is a paucity of literature on the occupational therapy scope of practice in the work-to-retirement transition. Objective: To explore the scope of practice of occupational therapy in the work-to-retirement transition in Australia. Method: A qualitative study was conducted using semi-structured interviews with Australian occupational therapists (n=14). Participants were recruited through special interest groups, the research teams’ network, social media and snowballing. Thematic analysis was used to explore the data. Results: Occupational therapists currently enable engagement in meaningful occupation in the transition from work to retirement within the home, workplace and community using a variety of tools (models, assessments and approaches). However, most services are provided through the course of other work occupational therapists engage in, e.g., occupational rehabilitation, limiting service provision. Practice Implications: A framework structured around who, what, when and where is provided to guide the application of occupational therapy in the work-to-retirement transition. Enablement skills are applied and contextual influencers are acknowledged. The work-to-retirement transition is situated both within its own unique practice area and within other occupational therapy practice areas. Conclusion: Occupational therapists have the skills and expertise to work within the work-to-retirement transition space. The proposed framework assists in articulating the scope of practice of occupational therapy in the work-to-retirement transition.

Journal

Australian Occupational Therapy Journal

Publication Name

Australian Occupational Therapy Journal

Volume

ISBN/ISSN

1440-1630

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Issue

Suppl. 1

Pages Count

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Publisher

Wiley-Blackwell

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DOI

10.1111/1440-1630.12736