Feasibility, acceptability and potential effectiveness of an occupation-focused cognitive self-management program for breast cancer survivors

Introduction The purpose of this research was to assess the feasibility, acceptability and potential effectiveness of a program to support the occupational performance of urban breast cancer survivors living with cancer-related cognitive impairment. Method Participants (n = 15) reporting cognitive changes following breast cancer treatment were enrolled in an occupation-focused self-management program. Occupational performance challenges, activity level, subjective cognitive function and quality of life were measured at the beginning, end and 3 months after completion of the program. Results Participants reported high satisfaction with the program and high confidence in their problem-solving and goal-setting skills. The 11 participants who completed the post-program assessment showed significant increases in self-perceived performance and satisfaction in daily living, participation, physical and functional wellbeing and perceived cognitive impairment. Conclusion The program was feasible for a vulnerable, socio-economically diverse patient population, acceptable to participants and may have positive effects on occupational performance.