Introduction: Due to demographic changes and an aging population, the number of older adults requiring assistance with daily activities and self-care is increasing. One of the most common forms of care for older adults is institutional care in nursing homes, where occupational therapists play an important role in maintaining individuals’ independence and improving their quality of life. These professionals contribute to the promotion of health and well-being regardless of the resident’s health condition or cultural background.
Purpose: The aim of this thesis was to explore and compare the work of occupational therapists in nursing homes in Slovenia and Belgium. The focus was placed on similarities and differences in work organization, therapeutic approaches, and the inclusion of people with dementia in therapeutic processes. Methods: A qualitative research approach was used. Data were collected through individual semi-structured interviews with four occupational therapists from Slovenia and Belgium working in institutional care. The collected data were analysed using thematic analysis and categorized into relevant categories and subcategories.
Results: The analysis resulted in four main categories: (1) the professional perspective of the occupational therapist, (2) evidence-based practice, (3) work and time organization, and (4) care for people with dementia. The study revealed significant similarities in the values and goals of occupational therapy, as well as differences influenced by the cultural and systemic context of each country. Discussion and Conclusion: The findings show that while the work of occupational therapists in both countries shares many core similarities, there are notable differences in the organization of the working day and team collaboration. In Belgium, occupational therapists often take on tasks typically performed by animators or caregivers in Slovenia. In contrast, occupational therapy in Slovenia tends to follow a more structured approach, including assessment, intervention, and evaluation of goals. There are also differences between the approaches used by occupational therapists with individuals diagnosed with dementia.
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