Doing and Being in the Atmosphere of the Doing: Environmental Influences on Occupational Performance in a Nursing Home

Abstract

The aim of this study was to explore how elderly residents perceive supports and constraints of the nursing home environment on their occupational performance. Interviews were conducted with 10 residents in one nursing home in Rotterdam, The Netherlands. The constant comparative method was used for data-analysis. Three themes were found: continuity of some familiar occupations of personal interest; self-determination and control in daily activities; and social contacts with people. In reference to familiar occupations this study showed that some persons need to continue performing such an occupation themselves while for others being in the atmosphere of the doing might fulfil the same need as the actual doing. The importance of recognizing this type of adaptation and its implications for a possible expansion of the concept of occupational performance is discussed.

• Activity
• Elderly
• Nursing Home
• Occupational Science
• Occupational Therapy
• Qualitative Methods