An investigation addressing occupational deprivation in an older adult inpatient setting.

Abstract

Background: Scotland has an ageing population, by the year 2031 the population aged over 75 is expected to rise by 75%. A significant proportion of this population has experience of hospitalisation. Literature shows that more often than not this is not a positive experience. The main reasoning for this appears to be due to the lack of opportunities these older adults are provided to participate in activities which they find meaningful. As a result, older adult inpatients often experience a decline in their functional abilities to carry out everyday tasks as well as lower mood. Process: A literature review has taken place to explore the experience of older adult inpatients. This clearly showed that the majority of this population had very negative experiences of hospitalisation. This insight was used to inform the development of a research proposal. This research proposal aims to investigate the relationship between opportunities to engage in meaningful activities and the mood and functional performance of older adult inpatients. Design: A quantitative design is proposed, as a result, it is hoped that this design will support the finding of statistical evidence relating to the aim of this research. Method: To conduct this research it is proposed that two groups of 30 older adult inpatients will be involved. One of these groups will participate in an additional meaningful activity group as well as usual occupational therapy intervention, while the other group will receive usual occupational therapy intervention only. All of the participants in both of these groups will be assessed at the beginning of their hospital admission and again just prior to discharge. From the outcomes of these assessments, it is expected that a conclusion could be made regarding the effectiveness of meaningful activities on the mood and performance of older adult inpatients.