OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY IN THE VOCATIONAL REHABILITATION OF VETERANS

Abstract

The issue of vocational rehabilitation for veterans has become increasingly critical for Ukraine amid the ongoing war and the rapid rise in the number of individuals returning from military service with combined physical, cognitive, and psychosocial needs. Restoring the ability to work is a key component of successful reintegration, and this process is closely linked to the contribution of occupational therapists. The aim of this paper is to synthesize current international evidence on the role of occupational therapy in vocational rehabilitation for veterans, review the effectiveness of occupation-based interventions, and outline the key directions for implementing these approaches within the Ukrainian rehabilitation system. The article examines global approaches to vocational rehabilitation, integrating legal, organizational, and clinical perspectives, and reviews established models used in the United States, Canada, and European countries. Particular attention is given to evidence-based supported employment strategies, which has consistently demonstrated superior outcomes in competitive employment, job retention, functional recovery, and quality of life among veterans with post-traumatic stress disorder, traumatic brain injury, spinal cord injury, and other service-related conditions. The paper highlights the broad role of occupational therapists in vocational rehabilitation, including assessment of occupational needs, restoration of functional and cognitive abilities, adaptation of work tasks and environments, coordination with employers and vocational services, and support for rebuilding meaningful worker roles. Despite substantial international evidence, there is a notable lack of Ukrainian research on the contribution of occupational therapy to veterans’ employment outcomes. Addressing this gap and integrating occupational therapists into vocational rehabilitation pathways is essential for strengthening Ukraine’s post-war recovery, enhancing social resilience, and supporting long-term participation of veterans in employment, education, and community life.