The Lived Experience of Persons with Spinal Cord Injuries Engaging in Remote Work: A South African Perspective

Occupational Therapy International, 2023 · DOI: https://doi.org/10.1155/2023/8671123 · Published: October 24, 2023

Spinal Cord Injury Occupational Health Rehabilitation

Simple Explanation

This study explores the experiences of South Africans with spinal cord injuries (SCI) who engage in remote work. It aims to identify the factors that help or hinder their ability to work remotely and how occupational therapists can better support their inclusion in the workforce. The research involved interviews with four participants with SCI in the Gauteng metropole to understand their lived experiences with remote work. The study looked at both the positive aspects (facilitators) and the negative aspects (barriers) they faced. The findings highlight that remote work can be a valuable tool for including individuals with SCI in the labor market, but it also presents unique challenges. The study offers insights for occupational therapists to better assist individuals with SCI in navigating the world of remote work.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

Four participants with traumatic SCI

Evidence Level

Not specified

Key Findings

1
Remote work offers flexibility and autonomy, allowing individuals to tailor their work schedules and environments to their needs.
2
Remote work can overcome geographical boundaries, expanding employment opportunities for individuals with SCI.
3
Remote work can lead to decreased social engagement and reduced physical mobility, posing challenges to well-being.

Research Summary

This study explored the lived experiences of persons with SCI engaging in remote work within the open labor market, focusing on facilitators and barriers from a South African perspective. The findings revealed both intrinsic (related to the job and individual) and extrinsic (external factors) facilitators and barriers to remote work for persons with SCI. The study concludes that remote work can be a valuable tool for including persons with SCI in the workforce but requires a holistic, client-centered approach and consideration of potential drawbacks such as decreased social engagement.

Practical Implications

Occupational Therapy Practice

Occupational therapists should consider remote work as a viable option for clients with SCI, focusing on skills training, vocational preparation, and reasonable accommodations.

Employer Policies

Employers should be educated on the benefits and challenges of remote work for employees with SCI and encouraged to implement flexible policies and supportive management styles.

Future Research

Further research is needed to explore the functional capacity of persons with SCIs and the effect on remote work engagement is required.

Study Limitations

1
The study sample only included English-speaking participants employed in a corporate setting, limiting diversity.
2
The findings are not generalizable due to the small sample size.
3
Online interviews may have limited observation of body language and rapport building.

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