Linking Occupational Participation and Occupational Identity: An Exploratory Study of the Transition from Driving to Driving Cessation in Older Adulthood

Abstract

Changes in the ability to participate in meaningful occupations are common during and following significant life changes and/or events. Using qualitative methods, this study explored how changes in occupational participation can influence an individual's identity as exemplified during the transitional period from driving to driving cessation in older adulthood. The findings discussed in this paper illustrate the interdependent relationship that exists between occupational participation and occupational identity. In particular, this study highlights the potential consequences on identity when meaningful occupations are disrupted. The findings in this study lend support to previous findings, which identified a critical link between engagement in meaningful occupations and identity as an occupational being. Given that individuals may experience many transitional periods in their lifetime, this study provides preliminary evidence regarding the importance of occupational adaptation. Based on findings in this study, occupational participation may provide the context in which individuals begin the process of reconstructing their lives thereby linking their past and future occupational self.