Co-occupation in a day program for adults with developmental disabilities

As meaning is an essential component of occupation, this phenomenological study investigated the meaning behind the activities in a day program for 10 staff members and 10 consumers with moderate to severe developmental disabilities who required assistance to engage in occupation. Methods included interviews with staff members and consumers, and participant observation sessions with consumers. Thematic analysis demonstrated that when the consumers actively engaged in activities and interacted with the staff members in specific ways, both parties found the activities meaningful. The themes were reflective of co-occupation and the importance of a good person-environment-occupation fit.