A Systematic Review: Why do Occupational Therapists in the NHS use Anxiety Management in palliative care and how do they use it in a generic community role with older palliative people?

Abstract

Anxiety management is a complex intervention delivered by generic community NHS Occupational Therapists (OTs) working with older palliative clients (Creek, 2003., Cooper,
2007., College of Occupational Therapists and HOPE, 2004., National Cancer Action Team,2009). Evidence supports managing anxiety as a core rehabilitation goal in palliative care as this can contribute to improved quality of life, independence, safety, and rehabilitation potential (Cooper, 2007., National Institute for Clinical Health Excellence, 2011a., National Institute for Clinical Health Excellence, 2011b., World Health Organisation, 2012., World Health Organisation, 2011). However, disparity occurs in practice on understandings and application of anxiety management. Despite this, there are currently no systematic reviews specific to anxiety management and this role.