Occupational Therapy Plays a Fundamental Role in the Daily Life of Patients With Transthyretin Amyloidosis

Ongoing occupational therapy (OT) is fundamentally important for patients following a variant transthyretin amyloidosis (ATTRv) diagnosis, according to a study being presented at the International Symposium on Amyloidosis 2024.

“ATTRv is a rare genetic disease that affects patients’ quality of life [QOL] by affecting various organs and tissues. Despite a wealth of research on medical and psychosocial interventions, the impact of OT on patients with ATTRv is not well understood,” the researchers said.

This analysis focused on assessing the activities of daily living and occupation as a fundamental tool in the management of patients with ATTRv following diagnosis. In an effort to develop an OT program for the improvement of daily functioning and QOL, investigators conducted semistructured interviews of 14 people with ATTRv. In the program, the OT worked with the patient to develop short- and medium-term occupational goals based on the Model of Human Occupation. The six-month intervention period comprised weekly or 10-day sessions, which were held to monitor and adjust the guidelines.

According to the results, 12 patients remained the same in their activities of daily living, 2 got worse, and 8 improved their psychological scores and occupational situation. Patients who received OT intervention reported that 6 months was not enough time and emphasized the fundamental role of the therapist in providing motivation, facilitating meaningful activities, and improving daily living and routines.

“This study highlights the need for further research in this area and the importance of OT in the management of patients with ATTRv,” the researchers concluded.