Approaches used by occupational therapists to support employment among individuals with mild intellectual disabilities

Abstract

This study aimed to evaluate the approaches used by occupational therapists (OTs) to support employment among individuals with mild intellectual disabilities. OTs of 11 individuals with mild intellectual disabilities requiring employment support were interviewed online via Zoom. A modified grounded theory approach was used for analysis. In total, 24 concepts and five subcategories were identified, which were grouped into the following four categories: “Broad assessment,” “Support as a Guide and Companion,” “Support for employment,” and “Continuity of support.” The ability to 1) assess by looking at the individual and company from all directions, 2) assist the individual to find motivation to work, and 3) provide support according to the individual's life stages while keeping the future in mind were important for supporting individuals with mild intellectual disabilities to find employment and settle down in the workplace.