Improved Occupational Performance of Young Adults with a Physical Disability After a Vocational Rehabilitation Intervention

Abstract

Participants showed improved occupational performance after the intervention. The goal of employment and the broad integrated approach of the intervention seemed to motivate participants to resolve problems in work, as well as self-care and leisure. Unemployed persons faced problems in all three areas of occupational performance at start. Although they seemed to catch up during the intervention, they did not achieve employment within 1 year.

Perspective of Clients and Healthcare Professionals About Occupational Therapy Intervention in Vocational Rehabilitation: A Descriptive-Exploratory Study at a Professional Rehabilitation Centre in Portugal

“…It was also mentioned that non-working related skills improvement could "increase productivity and allow an individual to engage in a job" (according to P3). According to evidence, young adults who were part of a vocational rehabilitation, with a multidisciplinary team, had improved occupational performance in work, leisure and self-care [3].…”

“…A job gives independence, because people can care for themselves and their dependents [2]. It is associated with better quality of life and allows the development of meaningful social activities [3]. On the other hand, unemployment or inability to return to work is associated with isolation and depression, due to income loss and stress increase [4].…”

A vocational rehabilitation intervention for young adults with physical disabilities: participants' perception of beneficial attributes

“…A detailed overview of the content of the intervention is presented in Table . ‘At Work’ is a multidisciplinary vocational rehabilitation intervention for young people (16–27 years) with chronic physical disabilities (Verhoef et al ). This intervention provides support at finding and maintaining regular employment (not temporary or seasonal) after finishing post‐secondary education.…”

“…To this aim, a multidisciplinary vocational intervention (‘At Work’) for young adults with physical disabilities is introduced in the Netherlands (Verhoef et al , Verhoef et al ). The intervention is designed for young adults entering the labour market, whether not employed or not suitably employed.…”

Role of Occupational Therapy in Promoting Self-Determination Through Consumer-Directed Supports

“…In one study, occupational therapists have collaborated with job coaches to provide coaching interventions which improved the job readiness and employment outcomes for young adults with physical disabilities (Verhoef et al, 2014). The occupational therapist worked as part of an interdisciplinary team to provide information about work-related issues and encouraged group members to solve problems and offer insights.…”