Self-initiated management strategies in digitalized work and everyday life – experiences of people with cognitive difficulties due to neurological disorders

Abstract

Background: Digitalized work life can increase cognitive demands and influence people’s everyday life. This can be challenging for people with cognitive difficulties, yet there is scarce knowledge of how they manage these. It is essential to learn how self-initiated management strategies can be a resource to support sustainable work and everyday life. Aim: To describe how people with cognitive difficulties due to neurological disorders experience their use of self-initiated strategies to manage digitalized work and other activities of everyday life. Material and Methods: Eleven employees in digital work with cognitive difficulties and neurological disorders participated in qualitative interviews supported by a dialogue support tool. Data were analyzed using content analysis. Results: A complexity of strategies was used to manage digital work and other activities. Based on how strategies were applied, three different profiles were found. These reflected efforts to manage situations in everyday life and how these influenced strategies applied and their importance. Conclusion: This knowledge can support people with cognitive difficulties and professionals to become aware of the potential of strategies and acknowledge a person’s own management resources. Reflections on how to manage situations can give perspectives on prevention or vocational rehabilitation to facilitate a sustainable work life.