Introduction: Multiple sclerosis is a chronic neurological disease of the central nervous system. It is characterized by inflammatory and degenerative changes, which manifest as demyelination, axonal damage, and loss of nerve tissue. Upon the onset of the disease, symptoms also develop, such as fatigue, which represents the main symptom of the disease, balance disorders, sensory disturbances, and a decline in cognitive functions. All of this can lead to limitations in performing daily activities, participation in life roles, and dissatisfaction with life. Occupational therapy plays an important role in the treatment of people with multiple sclerosis, as it focuses on restoring and establishing impaired abilities. Purpose: The purpose of the thesis was to review existing literature and analyze the role and importance of occupational therapy treatment in supporting the independence and daily functioning of people with multiple sclerosis. Methods: A systematic literature review was conducted, where articles were also evaluated for quality using the Joanna Briggs Institute criteria. When searching for relevant studies, inclusion and exclusion criteria were considered. Studies were searched in three databases - CINAHL, PubMed, and Web of Science, using Boolean operators AND and OR. The included studies were evaluated based on the level of evidence, assessed according to Joanna Briggs Institute criteria, and relevance to the research question. Results: Eight studies were included in the final analysis. Four themes were formed: the importance of occupational therapy, symptom management as an outcome of occupational therapy treatment, types of therapeutic approaches, and the role of occupational therapy. The synthesis of studies showed that occupational therapy plays a key role in the performance of and participation in daily activities, social participation, symptom management, and improving quality of life. Discussion and conclusion: The findings show that occupational therapy treatments are most often focused on fatigue management. In addition to fatigue management, treatments also focus on other areas, such as cognitive functions, process skills, and participation in daily activities. The literature review supports the relevance of occupational therapy and its impact on improving the performance of daily activities, social inclusion, reducing fatigue, and achieving satisfaction. Despite the recognition of the key role of occupational therapy, further research is needed for a better understanding and the formation of stronger evidence.
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