The Experience of Participation in Everyday Occupations for Adults with Obesity

BACKGROUND: Participation in occupations of everyday life, such as self-care, work, and leisure, contribute to health and well-being. Obesity has been shown to influence health-related quality of life, but it is unclear how obesity influences participation in specific occupations. PURPOSE: To describe the lived experience of adults with class III obesity and the associated impact on participation in occupations of daily living. METHODS: Ten adults enrolled in an obesity treatment program were interviewed. Data were interpreted using descriptive phenomenological methods. FINDINGS: Participants underscored the tensions, barriers, and coping strategies across and within specific occupations. Although participation across occupations of daily living was described, the quality and diversity of occupations was influenced by real and perceived barriers within the environment. IMPLICATIONS: Participation in daily occupations is limited for persons with class III obesity. Intervention approaches should address health-related concerns and consider environmental adaptations that facilitate meaningful engagement in everyday life.