The development of a workbook to explore meaningful occupations after life-changing events

Abstract

Introduction Following serious illness or other traumatic events, individuals can experience a disruption of identity. This is related to an altered ability to engage in the routines, interactions and occupations of everyday life. The meaningfulness of occupations and of life itself can be changed or diminished. Because engagement in occupations contributes to identity construction, a practical tool to systematically explore the unique meanings of particular occupations to an individual could be of value in helping to re-establish a positive way forward. The aim of this study was to develop such a therapeutic tool, based on a framework of ‘the occupied self’. Method A participatory design approach was employed to engage the expertise of potential end-users of the tool: six occupational therapists in cancer services and nine people living with cancer. The prototype ‘What Now?’ Workbook and associated Guidance Notes were incrementally developed over a period of 8 months. Results The workbook was judged by the expert advisers to be relevant, useful and user-friendly, with the potential to benefit carers, retirees and those recovering from life-changing events. Conclusion The final version of the ‘What Now?’ Workbook is now ready to be tested in practice.