Introduction: Occupation-based cognitive interventions aim to improve participation in meaningful activities for individuals with Multiple Sclerosis (MS). Recent evidence suggests that incorporating real life tasks alongside a metacognitive framework in cognitive rehabilitation can enhance occupational performance outcomes. However, the effectiveness of these interventions has not been evaluated and synthesised.
Objectives: This systematic review aims to evaluate the effectiveness of ‘occupation based’ cognitive interventions in improving independence (activity and participation) of individuals living with MS.
Methods: A systematic search of electronic databases (eMEDLINE, CINAHL, EMBASE, PsycINFO and Cochrane Library) was conducted to identify randomised and quasi-randomised studies published up until November 2024. Eligible studies were those which investigated occupation-based cognitive interventions using a metacognitive framework, for adults (18+) with MS. The review assessed the methodological quality, intervention components, and reported outcomes of the selected studies.
Results: 22,445 records were found, 91 papers screened at full text and 30 papers included. Preliminary findings indicate that included studies varied in the extent to which they used occupation-based cognitive interventions. Some engaged participants directly in real-life occupations, while others engaged participants in simulated occupations or rely on description and reflection.
Conclusion: The findings of this review will enable occupational therapists to make evidence-informed decisions regarding implementation of occupation-based interventions to enhance independence in daily tasks for people with MS.