Actual Roles of Occupational Therapists in Palliative and Hospice Care: A Scoping Review.

Abstract

Background: This study reviewed the role of occupational therapist's in palliative and hospice care over the past 20 years.

Methods: A scoping review following Arksey and O'Malley's five stages was undertaken using PubMed, OTseeker, Scopus, Elsevier, Cochrane Library-Medline, CINAHL, PsychInfo, Web of Science and Google Scholar.

Results: A total of 41 articles were reviewed. The most publications occurred in 2010, 2011, 2015, and 2023. The majority of the studies (48.7%) were of qualitative design. Various roles of occupational therapists have been defined in palliative care: discovering occupational meaning in the last periods of life and supporting occupational participation, management of persistent physical and psychological symptoms, especially pain and fatigue, improving or supporting the quality of life for individuals under palliative care, supporting mental well-being, supporting social participation, use of adaptive technologies, providing individuals with confidence and comfort. Occupational therapists also have various duties in maintaining palliative-hospice care at home include evaluating the individual at home and supporting home care and rehabilitation after discharge. Interventions for caregivers or supporting caregivers who have lost their roles, occupations or jobs in the care process are also among the roles of occupational therapists.

Conclusion: Occupational therapy within the context of palliative care aims to assist individuals in attaining their highest level of independence in important occupations. Occupational therapists play a crucial role in coordinating and facilitating safe transitions from the hospital to home, aiming to improve the overall quality of life and reduce hospital stays.