How adults with ADHD get engaged in and perform everyday activities

Abstract

Objective: An increasing number of adults with ADHD face problems with everyday activities, and occupational therapists play an important role regarding interventions for this particular group. However, there is a knowledge gap within occupational therapy regarding how adults with ADHD experience engagement in everyday activities. The aim of this study was to understand the experiences of engagement in, and describe how adults with ADHD performed everyday activities. Methods: Twelve people with ADHD between the ages of 21 and 38 were interviewed using a semi-structured interview guide. Data were analysed based on a qualitative content analysis. Results: The results showed how engagement in and performance of everyday activities depended on inspiration, facilitating support, and feelings of togetherness with other people. Conclusions: These results show how adults with ADHD can find strategies to become more independent in their performance of everyday activities. Furthermore, this study suggests how occupational therapists can increase opportunities for adults with ADHD to engage in different activities, make choices, and find meaning in everyday activities.

Key words::

• occupational therapy
• attention deficit disorders with hyperactivity
• activities of daily living

Declaration of interest : The authors report no conflicts of interest. The authors alone are responsible for the content and writing of the paper.

Acknowledgement

The authors would like to thank the informants who participated in the study and openly shared their experiences. The study was supported by the FOU, Norrbotten County Council.