Potential occupational therapy scope of practice in the work‐to‐retirement transition in Australia

Abstract

Introduction Retirement, being a major life event and a focus of healthy ageing in society, creates the opportunity for occupational therapists to support people transitioning from work to retirement. Little is known about the scope of practice of occupational therapy in the work‐to‐retirement transition. The aim of this study was to, in Australia, (1) explore the potential scope of practice and factors influencing the potential scope of practice of occupational therapy in the work‐to‐retirement transition and (2) map findings to occupational therapy theoretical frameworks to assist in articulating scope of practice. Methods A qualitative study (thematic analysis as an independent approach within a qualitative descriptive methodology) was undertaken using semi‐structured interviews with Australian occupational therapists. Findings Australian occupational therapists (n = 14) were interviewed. Four themes were identified which related to the potential scope of occupational therapy practice in the work‐to‐retirement transition: finding meaningful occupation; modifying lifestyles and homes for better living; work engagement; and application of occupational therapy skills. Six themes were identified which related to contextual factors influencing the potential scope of occupational therapy practice in the work‐to‐retirement transition: right time; valuing our expertise; promoting occupation(al therapy); finding the money; life, work and retirement longevity; and social responsibility. Conclusion The work‐to‐retirement transition can be incorporated into other practice areas or can be a unique practice area allowing for a more targeted service. The frameworks of who, what, when, and where and enablement skills assist in articulating occupational therapy scope of practice in the work‐to‐retirement transition. A number of contextual factors can be barriers and/or facilitators to occupational therapy practice. More clearly articulating occupational therapy practice in the work‐to‐retirement transition will enable the profession to promote their scope of practice assisting in obtaining professional and public recognition and overcoming barriers such as funding to enable provision of services within this area.

Supporting occupational therapists to initiate conversations about sexuality with people with intellectual disability: Co‐design by deliberative dialogue

“…A qualitative descriptive design was adopted in this study. In occupational therapy research, this methodology has established applicability for gaining an in‐depth understanding of phenomena, where little research exists (Bennett et al, 2023; Eagers et al, 2022; Godfrey et al, 2019; Roberts et al, 2022). Stanley (2014) identifies concern in studies ‘that purport to be qualitative descriptive yet lack rigor in their application of the approach’ (p. 21).…”