The link between occupational balance

Abstract

This study was conducted to examine the relationship between occupational balance and emotional eating and mindful eating behaviors in individuals aged 50–65. The study

conducted using a cross-sectional and prospective design

included 96 participants with an average age of 58±2.81. Participants' occupational balance level was assessed using the Occupational Balance Questionnaire (OBQ)

emotional eating behavior using the Emotional Eater Questionnaire (EEQ)

and mindful eating behavior using the Mindful Eating Questionnaire (MEQ). A food consumption frequency questionnaire was used to descriptively evaluate individuals' food group consumption frequencies. Pearson correlation analyses revealed a significant negative relationship between OBQ and EEQ (r=–0.297; p= 0.004) and a significant positive relationship between OBQ and MEQ (r=0.336; p=0.001). Furthermore

regression analysis revealed that emotional and mindful eating variables together explained approximately 24% of occupational balance. These findings suggest that routine screening for emotional and mindful eating patterns may help clinicians identify individuals at risk of reduced occupational balance

and integrating mindfulness-based eating strategies or nutrition counseling approaches into occupational health programs may support improved daily functioning.