Introduction: Rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases are among the most common chronic diseases, accompanied by joint pain, fatigue, and reduced functional independence. Consequently, they significantly affect an individual's quality of life, employment participation, social inclusion, and performance of daily occupations. In the treatment of adults, occupational therapy plays a crucial role by providing psychosocial support and assisting in the search for adaptive strategies and coping mechanisms to maintain independence. Purpose: The purpose of this study was to examine how adults with rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases perform everyday occupations, how they experience changes in their lives, and which adaptations they use to facilitate performance, particularly in the area of employment. Methods: A qualitative study was conducted. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with five adult women with rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases, all of whom were employed. The interviews were audio recorded, transcribed, and analyzed using qualitative content analysis. Categories, subcategories and codes were identified. Results: The analysis and synthesis of interviews revealed seven main categories: performance of occupations, employment and work, leisure activities, social participation, experiences of change in occupational performance, lifestyle changes and role of occupational therapy. Participants described that the disease significantly affected daily activities such as household activities, physical activity, mobility and personal care, leading to reduced functional independence. In terms of employment participation, they emphasized the importance of flexible work arrangements, various coping strategies, and workplace adaptations that facilitate inclusion. Leisure activities were often described as having changed meaning, as pain and fatigue limited their performance. Social support played an important role in promoting community inclusion. Participants reported both positive and negative feelings when experiencing changes. The disease had a strong impact on lifestyle and quality of life, which often needed to be adapted through various strategies. These were largely advised by occupational therapists, who represent an important source of professional support and guidance in adaptations. Discussion and conclusion: Findings suggest that rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases impose numerous limitations to everyday life, however, with appropriate coping strategies, social support and occupational therapy interventions, it is possible to maintain a high level of participation in daily occupations and improve quality of life.
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