Application of the Ecology of Human Performance in Cardiac Occupational Therapy: A Case Study

Abstract

The theories of occupational therapy always emphasize on the relationship between a person, his or her context, and occupations or tasks. Based on these theories, proper occupational performance results from appropriate interaction between these components. There is little evidence on the clinical practice of this theory in cardiac rehabilitation. So, this study aimed to investigate the implication of the Ecology of Human Performance (EHP) in a 50 years old man with cardiovascular disease. The participant was assessed and treated at home by an occupational therapist based on EHP principles. Results indicated that the intervention based on EHP was associated with improved performance and satisfaction of performance as well as independence in the activities of daily living. So, occupational therapists can use EHP to provide client-centered interventions and improve the occupational performance of clients with cardiovascular diseases. However, further studies with more methodological rigor are needed on this topic.