Occupational therapy in the rehabilitation management of obesity in adults

Abstract

Obesity is a global human problem due to its high prevalence and negative consequences for health, life duration and quality of life of the population. This situation makes it necessary to pay more attention to effective rehabilitation of overweight and obese persons. The article considers approaches to the application of occupational therapy measures in the rehabilitation management of obesity: the impact of the disease on occupation is described, the methods of occupational therapy assessment and the goals of occupational therapy interventions are defined, the role of occupational therapy measures is substantiated, an overview of the main occupational therapy strategies that have confirmed their effectiveness in the treatment of obesity in the adult population is provided. A client-centered approach to occupational therapy has been found to be particularly valuable in the treatment of chronic relapsing obesity. Using analysis of occupation performance and understanding the client's performance skills helps occupational therapists implement meaningful and effective interventions that promote the client's active participation in changing the daily life habits, roles, and patterns that underlie the development of obesity. Prospects for further research are practical testing and research of the effectiveness of occupational therapy programs for people with obesity in the context of the Ukrainian health care system.