“I am Not Just My Illness”: Daily life experiences and participation of advanced cancer patients in palliative care: A qualitative study

Individuals with advanced cancer face profound daily disruptions, yet research specifically focusing on their personal participation experiences remains limited. This study aimed to explore the daily life experiences and participation perceptions of advanced-stage cancer patients receiving palliative care. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with eight patients, and data were analyzed using reflexive thematic analysis. Four themes were identified: (1) dependence in activities of daily living and loss of function, (2) altered occupational identity and social participation restrictions, (3) occupational disruption and longing for the past (4) the role of support systems and care services. Participants emphasized that social isolation, unmet rehabilitation needs, and the loss of meaningful roles affected them as much as physical symptoms. The findings suggest that maintaining occupational identity is a vital need, distinct from mere functional ability. Consequently, there is an urgent need for patient-centered rehabilitation services within palliative care settings to address these fundamental humanistic needs.