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Efficacy of a Modular Lifestyle Intervention Through Occupation for Individuals With Rheumatoid Arthritis: A
Sultan Baştürk1, Gamze Ekici2, Timur Pırıldar3
1Sultan Baştürk, PhD, is Assistant Professor, Department of Occupational Therapy, Faculty of Health Sciences, Izmir Tinaztepe University, Izmir, Turkey; fzt.sbasturk@gmail.com.
Summary
A lifestyle intervention significantly improved daily activity performance and quality of life for individuals with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). This occupation-based program offers a sustainable addition to standard medical care for RA patients.
Area of Science:
- Occupational therapy
- Rheumatology
- Lifestyle medicine
Background:
- Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) significantly impacts daily occupational performance and quality of life.
- Occupational therapy is crucial for integrating lifestyle and behavioral strategies in RA management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effectiveness of a client-centered, modular lifestyle intervention (LI) on occupational performance and health outcomes in individuals with RA.
Main Methods:
- A randomized controlled trial was conducted with 45 individuals diagnosed with RA.
- Participants were assigned to either an eight-session occupation-based LI group or a control group receiving well-being check phone calls.
- Outcomes included the Canadian Occupational Performance Measure (COPM), pain, fatigue, and quality of life, assessed at baseline, postintervention, and 6-month follow-up.
Main Results:
- The LI group showed significant improvements in COPM Performance and Satisfaction compared to the control group.
- Significant improvements were also observed in pain, fatigue, and quality of life in the LI group.
- A delayed reduction in disease activity was noted at the 6-month follow-up.
Conclusions:
- The lifestyle intervention demonstrated durable improvements in occupational performance and patient-reported outcomes for individuals with RA.
- This occupation-based LI is a valuable adjunct to pharmacological care for managing RA.
- Integrating such lifestyle programs can enhance the well-being of individuals living with rheumatoid arthritis.
