title: Barriers and facilitators to participation in work among Canadian women living with HIV/AIDS.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  The impact of human immunodeficiency virus/acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (HIV/AIDS) on the participation of women in paid/unpaid work is a little understood phenomenon.
  
  
  OBJECTIVE
  A research study exploring the lived experiences of Canadian women's engagement in paid/unpaid work and the barriers and facilitators mediating this phenomenon.
  
  
  METHODS
  Study design employed a phenomenological approach using data subanalysis of transcripts, double coded for agreement and to ensure saturation of themes.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Analysis of the data revealed an overarching theme of engagement mediated by interacting forces with eight subthemes: active management, agency constrained by structure, the nature of supports, HIV/AIDS sequelae, work as a galvanizing force, the presence of children, the element of fear, and negotiation of self.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Insights gained indicate a need for further education, resources, supports, and policy changes at the systems level. Occupational therapy is positioned to broaden the role of rehabilitation in the context of HIV/AIDS, episodic disability, and work participation.
authors.affiliation: Therapacc Inc., Lindsay, ON, Canada. valbarkey@gmail.com
authors.forename: Valerie
authors.initials: V
authors.lastname: Barkey
authors.forename: Elisa
authors.initials: E
authors.lastname: Watanabe
authors.forename: Patty
authors.initials: P
authors.lastname: Solomon
authors.forename: Seanne
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Wilkins
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D002170:Canada; D004651:Employment; D005239:Fear; D005260:Female; D015658:HIV Infections / Q000503:physiopathology* / Q000523:psychology*; D006801:Humans; D008875:Middle Aged; D010290:Parents; D011632:Public Assistance; D012649:Self Concept; D014838:Volunteers