Viewpoints of working sandwich generation women and occupational therapists on role balance strategies
Sammanfattning
Occupational therapists need to be cognizant of evidence-based role balance advice and strategies
that women with multigenerational caring responsibilities can implement independently or
with minimal assistance, as role balance may not be the primary goal during many encounters
with this population. Hence, this study aimed to identify the viewpoints on the most helpful role
balance strategies for working sandwich generation women, both from their own perspectives
and from the perspective of occupational therapists. This was achieved through a Q methodology
study, where 54 statements were based on findings from interviews, sandwich generation
literature and occupational therapy literature. In total, 31 working sandwich generation women
and 42 occupational therapists completed the Q sort through either online or paper administration.
The data were analysed using factor analysis with varimax rotation and were interpreted
through collaboration with experts in the field. The findings revealed similarities between working
sandwich generation women and occupational therapists, particularly in terms of advocating
strategies related to sleep, rest and seeking practical assistance from support networks.
Differences were also present, with working sandwich generation women viewpoints tending to
emphasize strategies related to coping with a busy lifestyle attending to multiple responsibilities.
In contrast, occupational therapy viewpoints prioritized strategies related to the occupational
therapy process, such as goal setting, activity focused interventions, monitoring progress and
facilitating sustainable outcomes.