Affiliations: Department of Occupational Therapy, University of
Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
Note: [] Address for correspondence: Brent Braveman, PhD, OTR/L,
University of Illinois at Chicago, M/C 811, 1919 W. Taylor St., Rm 347,
Chicago, IL 60612, USA. Tel.: +1 312 355 2656; Fax: +1 312 413 0256; E-mail:
bbravema@uic.edu
Abstract: The purpose of this qualitative study was to identify the perception
of interdisciplinary staff members regarding the impact of a model work and
independent living oriented program for residents in supportive living
facilities. This study used focus groups and individual interviews to collect
these perceptions. Staff members identified four areas of impact: utilization
of a holistic and process-oriented approach, an ability to identify and work
with the strengths of clients, emphasis on the learning of practical skills,
and creating an intersection for all aspects of services. These findings point
to the fact that staff members found the value that occupational therapy has to
offer their overall programming by improving participation of clients with HIV
in learning practical skills for use in their daily lives and in developing
work related skills.
Keywords: Focus groups, HIV/AIDS, independent living
