An Approach to Persons with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Based on the Model of Human Occupation: Part One, Impact on Occupational Performance and Participation

Abstract

Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) is a prevalent and disabling condition that involves six or more months of unexplained fatigue severe enough to interfere with previous levels of occupational, educational, and/or social performance. The fatigue is accompanied by at least four of eight additional physical and cognitive symptoms (Fukuda et al., 1994). This paper conceptualizes the multiple factors that affect occupational adaptation in persons with CFS. The Model of Human Occupation (MOHO) if used as a framework for understanding the synergistic and evolving relationships between motivation, roles, habits, performance capacities, and the environment as they influence individuals with CFS. Examples from the literature, autobiographical accounts, and from practice experience are used to illustrate the experience and impact of CFS on everyday life.

Reviewing the Impact of Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome on Daily Functioning Using a Holistic Model It’s Implication on Intervention

“…Taylor et al, [9] state that ME/CFS symptoms can make it extremely difficult or impossible for the persons with this illness to perform activities of daily living. Therefore, maintaining daily routines and meeting role expectations can be significantly impaired in individuals with ME/CFS.…”

“…Accessibility including lack of transportation to get to appointments, too short of appointments or difficulty getting timely appointments is physical constraints that have interfered individuals ability to utilize health care services [35]. In addition, environmental barriers in the person's environment may limit the individual with ME/CFS from engaging in occupation or making occupational adaptations [9]. Buildings and facilities that are designed for the able-bodied are barriers to accessing health-care for those who have limited ambulation.…”

“…The illness also has serious effects on a person's ability to perform their pre-morbid roles. Reduction in a person's ability to carry out activities of daily living may result in a lower sense of competence and poor quality of life [9]. Despite the multitude of information available, there continues to be barriers to diagnosis, assessment and intervention for individual's afflicted with ME/CFS.…”

Impact of advance light exposure on assembly-line workers’ subjective work alertness and sleep quality

“…Assembly-line workers are noted for their high workload of monotonous tasks at a swift pace, which leads to occupational health risks, such as chronic fatigue 1 and sleep deprivation. 2,3 A low-quality lighting environment also affects the health of assembly-line workers.…”