Introduction: Inflammatory rheumatic diseases are among the more common chronic conditions of the musculetal system and include disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, systemic lupus erythematosus and Sjögren’s syndrome. Characteristic symptoms such as pain, joint swelling, pronounced fatigue and morning stiffness can significantly reduce an individual's ability to perform daily activities. Consequently, participation in various occupations, which play an important role in shaping lifestyle, social inclusion, and overall well-being, is often impaired. Occupations play a key role in maintaining occupational identity, a sense of belonging, and quality of life, despite the limitations imposed by the disease. Purpose: We explored the perspectives of individuals with rheumatic disease on the performance of occupations following the onset of the illness, the changes in occupational identity and occupational competence, and the nature of occupational adaptation in continuing to engage in desired occupations. Methods: A qualitative study was conducted. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with five participants diagnosed with a rheumatic disease. The obtained data were analysed using qualitative thematic analysis. Results: The analysis yielded five themes: occupational identity before the onset of the disease, occupational competence before the onset of the disease, occupational identity after the onset of the disease, occupational competence after the onset of the disease, and occupational adaptation. The results showed that disease-related difficulties affect individuals' functioning in everyday life. When performing certain occupations, participants became dependent on assistance from others, which they often perceived as a negative experience, as reduced independence led to feelings of frustration. Participants were forced to give up certain occupations and focus on those they were still able to perform. Discussion and conclusion: The study showed that individuals with rheumatic disease experience changes in occupational identity and competence following the onset of the illness. Occupational adaptation is required to enable the continued performance of occupations. Participants had to modify their lifestyle and adopt new strategies for engaging in occupations. They developed new values and adapted or abandoned certain occupations. The findings contribute to a better understanding of the experiences of individuals whit rheumatic diseases and provide a basis for further research in the field of occupational therapy.
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