Engagement in occupational activities and health in older adults: a review study

In this review, we want to explore the existing evidence for the health benefits of engagement in occupational activities among older adults. The review incorporates the breadth of areas of occupation in which older adults engage and the range of health benefits derived from that engagement. The results of this review demonstrate the multidisciplinary appreciation for occupational therapy and associated well-being, and elucidate the health effects of engagement in a wide variety of occupations and activities. Occupational therapy’s historical ideologies and core philosophies linking occupational engagement to improved health and well-being. The findings suggest an increasingly significant role for occupational therapy service delivery in community-based health promotion and prevention efforts to meet the everyday activity and health needs of the growing older adult population.Work, volunteering, leisure, physical, social, and religious activities, and other occupational therapy practices have a positive impact on health and quality of life for older adults. Occupational therapy practitioners need to be aware that the benefits of engagement in occupation may vary based on the occupation, activity, and personal characteristics.

Engagement in occupational activities and health in older adults: a review study Keywords:

Occupational Therapy , Engagement , Elderly