Evaluation of the improvement of the quality of life and daily life activity in obese patients: A Systematic Review

Jessica Bagaglini; Margherita Parente; Rita De Santis; Giovanni Fabbrini; Julita Sansoni; Donatella Valente; Marco Tofani; Giovanni Galeoto

Jessica Bagaglini Sapienza, University of Rome, Italy
Margherita Parente Sapienza, University of Rome, Italy
Rita De Santis Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic and Orthopaedic Sciences, “Sapienza” University of Rome, Italy
Giovanni Fabbrini Department Human Neurosciences, Sapienza- University of Rome, and IRCSS Neuromed Institute Pozzilli (IS), Italy
Julita Sansoni Department of Public Health, Sapienza University of Rome, Italy
Donatella Valente Department Human Neurosciences, “Policlinico” Umberto I University Hospital Sapienza- University of Rome, Italy
Marco Tofani Sapienza, University of Rome, Italy
Giovanni Galeoto Dipartimento Sanità pubblica e Malattie Infettive

Keywords: obesity; occupational therapy; occupational performance; quality of life; activity of daily life

Abstract

ABSTRACT

Background. Obesity is recognized as one of the major public health concerns in the world. Being overweight restricts participation in everyday life occupations, as it entails difficulties in planning time spans required for movements according to task demands. The aim of the study was to evaluate the effectiveness of occupational therapy in improving life standards and everyday life in general, as well as lifestyle and leisure in individuals by obesity through a systematic review.

Method: The research was carried out on Medline, Cinahl and OTseeker. It includes all articles where the treatment was performed by the occupational therapist, individually or in a team, on patients, both adults and children with obesity and / or overweight.

Results. This review includes a selection of five studies. It is interesting to note how the occupational therapy can play an active role on four specific aspects: improving quality of life, improving performance areas and occupational satisfaction, promoting physical, mental and social health, adopting a healthier life style.

Conclusions. Even though there is a limited amount of evidences, it has been demonstrated how occupational therapy can substantially contribute to reduce the impact of obesity on all aspects of daily life activities.