Occupational Balance, Self-Management, and Quality of Life in Adults With Epilepsy

Occupational balance, self-management, and quality of life (QoL) are interrelated factors that play a critical role in well-being of individuals with epilepsy. This study examined the associations between occupational balance, self-management, and QoL in adults with epilepsy. A cross-sectional-study included 71 adults with epilepsy. Participants completed the Occupational Balance Questionnaire (OBQ), Epilepsy Self-Management Scale (ESMS), and Quality of Life in Epilepsy Inventory-31 (QOLIE-31). Data were analyzed using Spearman's rank correlation. OBQ scores showed positive correlations with the ESMS total (r = .331, p < .01) and QOLIE-31 total (r = .251, p < .05). Moderate associations were also found with emotional well-being (r = .424, p < .01) and overall QoL (r = .425, p < .01). Findings suggest that facilitating a healthy balance of daily activities may enhance both emotional well-being and self-management in individuals with epilepsy. For occupational therapists, integrating occupation-centered strategies to foster balance may lead to meaningful improvements in self-care, independence, and long-term QoL, thereby providing clear and practical guidance for clinical interventions in epilepsy care.