An Exploratory Study Investigating the Quality of Life in Parents of Children with Disabilities

The purpose of the study is to investigate caregivers\u27 of children with disabilities perceptions related to their quality of life through engagement in meaningful occupations. Researchers hope that data from this study will contribute to the growing body of literature on caregivers of children with disabilities. Quality of life is an outcome measure that occupational therapists utilize in their practice. Throughout the course of the study data was collected through the use of a semi structured interview tool. Researchers developed this tool to allow participants to openly express their thoughts, emotions, and experiences related to having a child with a disability. Results of the study indicated that there is a broad impact of having a child with a disability. Participants rated their quality of life high, and expressed the added love and enjoyment that their children bring into their lives. Data from the current study is targeted at developing a more comprehensive view of the quality of life of caregivers of children with disabilities. This data may assist occupational therapists in developing a greater understanding of the quality of life needs related to this population. Ultimately, researchers intend for this data to be utilized by therapists who work with this population to better provide holistic, family- centered care