https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/150648 Wed, 11 Nov 2026 15:31:13 GMT 2026-11-11T15:31:13Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/150896 Title: Exploring stroke survivors’ experiences and the process of returning to work Abstract: Background: Returning to work after stroke is recognised as an important component of recovery, extending beyond physical rehabilitation to include psychosocial and cognitive dimensions that influence individuals’ ability to resume employment (Wolfenden & Grace, 2009). Stroke-related impairments, including physical and cognitive difficulties, can limit individuals’ ability to sustain employment, requiring ongoing adaptation and affecting participation in both work and daily life (Palstam et al., 2018). Work is also closely linked to identity, with returning to employment associated with regaining roles, purpose, and a sense of belonging (Wassenius et al., 2023). Aims: This study aimed to explore how stroke survivors experience and navigate the process of returning to work following rehabilitation. It also aimed to identify the factors influencing this transition, including environmental and contextual conditions, personal motivations, and the strategies and adaptations used to sustain work participation. Method: A qualitative research design was employed. Participants were recruited through purposive sampling based on predefined inclusion criteria of being at least 18 years of age, have experienced a stroke and have returned to work. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with six individuals, allowing for in-depth exploration of participants’ perspectives. The data were analysed using thematic analysis following the framework developed by Braun and Clarke (2006). Findings: Four main themes were identified: ‘Changes in Occupational Identity’, ‘Return to Work Transitions After Stroke’, ‘Navigating the Return to Work Process’ and ‘Acceptance and Adaptation to Limitations and Changed Circumstances’. Participants described a disruption in valued roles and a reduced sense of independence following stroke. Returning to work was often associated with regaining purpose and a sense of normality, however, this process was not straightforward. Ongoing physical and cognitive difficulties influenced work performance, requiring individuals to adapt tasks and routines. Environmental factors, including workplace support, transport challenges, and access to professional input, were found to significantly affect the return to work experience. Discussion: The findings demonstrate that returning to work following stroke is a dynamic and ongoing process shaped by individual and environmental factors. Disruptions in occupational roles and performance highlight the importance of targeted, client-centred occupational therapy interventions. The study emphasises the need for structured return to work support, including workplace adaptations, employer involvement, and continued follow-up beyond discharge, to promote more sustainable outcomes. Description: B.Sc. (Hons)(Melit.) Thu, 01 Jan 2026 00:00:00 GMT https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/150896 2026-01-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/150895 Title: Parents’ and music therapists’ perspectives on children’s participation in music therapy Abstract: Background: Music therapy is recognised as a meaningful intervention that helps support children’s communication, emotional regulation, social interaction, and participation. However, limited research has explored both parents’ and music therapists’ perspectives on children’s participation in music therapy, particularly within the Maltese context. Aim: This study aimed to explore parents’ and music therapists’ perspectives on children’s participation in music therapy. It sought to understand how music therapy is experienced and its perceived impact on children’s communication, emotional regulation, social interaction, and participation in daily life. Method: A qualitative research design was adopted. Semi-structured interviews were conducted to gain in-depth insights into participants’ experiences and perspectives. Participants were recruited through purposive sampling from a Maltese non-governmental organisation providing music therapy services. The sample consisted of five participants, including three parents of children attending music therapy and two registered music therapists. Data was analysed using a thematic analysis approach. Findings: The analysis identified five main themes: music as a medium for communication and emotional expression; supporting participation and engagement in everyday life; development of social and interpersonal skills; music therapy as a motivating form of therapy; and interprofessional collaboration enhancing children’s participation. Findings indicated that music therapy supports non-verbal communication, emotional expression, and emotional regulation, contributing to improved attention, calmness, and readiness to engage. Increased confidence, self-expression, and motivation were also reported, alongside improvements in social interaction, turn-taking, and sense of belonging. Some carryover into home and school contexts was reported, although this varied across participants. Discussion: This study highlights the value of music therapy as a meaningful and engaging intervention that supports children’s participation across multiple domains. It also identifies the importance of incorporating both parental and therapist perspectives to understand participation holistically. The findings also highlight the potential for interdisciplinary collaboration between music therapy and occupational therapy. Recommendations for future research were proposed to enhance children’s participation in music therapy and support the possibility development of interdisciplinary collaboration and optimise children’s participation through the integration of music-based approaches across paediatric contexts. Description: B.Sc. (Hons)(Melit.) Thu, 01 Jan 2026 00:00:00 GMT https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/150895 2026-01-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/150894 Title: A qualitative exploration of occupational therapy practices in addressing post-stroke somatosensory impairments in Malta Abstract: Background: Post-stroke somatosensory impairments can significantly influence motor function and engagement in meaningful occupations (Carey et al., 2018). Despite their clinical importance, they are frequently under-recognised and inconsistently addressed in rehabilitation (Byrne et al., 2023). This may contribute to reduced participation outcomes amongst stroke survivors, highlighting the need to better understand how they are addressed in OT practice (Pumpa et al., 2015). Aim: This study aimed to explore occupational therapists’ perspectives on the impact of somatosensory impairments. It further aimed to explore current clinical practices, identify potential barriers to somatosensory rehabilitation and gather recommendations to further support its integration within clinical practice. Method: A qualitative research design was adopted. Eight occupational therapists working within stroke settings were recruited through purposive sampling. Data was gathered through semi-structured interviews and later analysed using Braun & Clarke’s (2006) thematic analysis. Findings: Five main themes were identified: “Motor, Functional and Psychological Impact”, “Assessment of Somatosensory Impairments in Clinical Practice”, “Intervention Approaches, Clinical Reasoning and Perceived Effectiveness”, “Barriers to Somatosensory Assessment and Rehabilitation” and “Recommendations for Strengthening Somatosensory Rehabilitation Practice.” Within these themes, therapists described the significant impact of somatosensory impairments on stroke survivors’ motor function, occupational performance, safety and emotional wellbeing. In clinical practice, somatosensory assessment was recognised as an integral part of routine OT evaluation, however it was conducted using informal methods. Intervention approaches were varied and guided by clinical reasoning, but their effectiveness was perceived to be inconsistent. Discussion: Therapists recognised the importance of addressing somatosensory impairments however practice was shaped by interrelated barriers, including time constraints, limited resources, reduced training opportunities and limited patient awareness. As a result, therapists emphasised the need to strengthen somatosensory rehabilitation within practice through greater organisational investment in standardised assessment tools, increased resource availability, ongoing professional development and patient education. Strengthening these areas may support effective integration of somatosensory rehabilitation within clinical practice, contributing to improved occupational performance, greater participation and enhanced quality of life among stroke survivors. Description: B.Sc. (Hons)(Melit.) Thu, 01 Jan 2026 00:00:00 GMT https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/150894 2026-01-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/150893 Title: Exploring occupational performance patterns of parents of young persons with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder Abstract: Background: Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects children’s behaviour, attention and executive functioning (American Psychiatric Association, 2022; Barkley, 2014). Parents often need to adapt their caregiving strategies to support their child’s participation in home and community activities. Aims: This study aimed to explore parents’ experiences of managing daily routines for children with ADHD. It also sought to examine the challenges parents face in maintaining family schedules, the impact of ADHD on family roles and relationships, and the strategies used to support their children’s engagement and independence. Method: A qualitative research design was adopted. Six parents of children diagnosed with ADHD were recruited through purposive sampling. Data were collected via semi-structured interviews, which focused on experiences, challenges and coping strategies in managing daily routines. Data were analysed using Braun and Clarke’s (2006) thematic analysis. Results: Three main themes emerged: ‘Challenges in Maintaining Routines’, ‘Impact of ADHD on Family Roles’, and ‘Coping Strategies and Structure’. Within these themes, parents described difficulties in sustaining consistent daily routines across mornings, homework, evenings and weekends. ADHD was also associated with changes in family roles and responsibilities, as well as disruptions to sibling interactions and wider family life. Furthermore, parents described a range of coping strategies aimed at supporting children’s regulation, participation and engagement in daily occupations. Discussion: Findings demonstrate how ADHD disrupts family routines, requiring ongoing parental involvement and adaptation to support children’s occupational engagement. Individualised and flexible approaches, informed by family routines and child preferences, were central to maintaining participation and family wellbeing. These results reinforce the importance of family-centred and child-centred occupational therapy interventions that provide guidance on routines, coping strategies and environmental adaptations. Continued support may be beneficial for families experiencing persistent challenges. Description: B.Sc. (Hons)(Melit.) Thu, 01 Jan 2026 00:00:00 GMT https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/150893 2026-01-01T00:00:00Z