What is Occupational Therapy?
The things each of us do in our day, our activities, such as taking care of ourselves or taking care of our home, are included in our occupations. This includes your vocation, but also your social participation. It is what occupies your time. If something is interfering with your ability to participate in your regular activities, whether it be a new diagnosis or the changes that come with aging, occupational therapy can assist you to continue to participate in your occupations. Occupational therapy is a client-centered approach that uses meaningful activities in therapy to help promote independence.
Who might need Occupational Therapy?
You may be familiar with occupational therapy services for certain needs, such as after a stroke, or after joint replacement surgery. But the list of areas where an occupational therapist (OT) can be of great assistance to an individual is long and varied. Here are just a few examples:
- Decreased Vision- The OT can recommend home modifications and assist the individual to develop compensatory strategies.
- Fall Prevention- Falls are a serious risk for adults over 65 years old. A home evaluation by the OT to observe how the individual functions in their home as well as an evaluation of potential hazards in the home can reduce the risk of a life threatening fall.
- Pain Management- Whatever the cause of pain- arthritis, chronic pain, burns, amputation, etc., an OT can educate the individual on various strategies for the management of pain.
- Assistive Devices - Recommendations and education on devices to promote safety and independence.
- Ergonomics- The OT can provide education on making a work space more safe and comfortable, as well as introduce ergonomic tools to assist with weakness in the hands.
- Driving- The OT can work to develop plans to keep driver safe as they age, or instruct on how to plan for alternative transportation.
- Aging in Place- The OT can provide a home evaluation to help individuals plan for the future so that they will be able to stay in their home, and maximize their independence for as long as possible.
- Dementia-The OT can assist the individual and their families on strategies to keep the individual safe and active in their occupations.
- Energy Conservation/Work Simplification- Strategies to help with weakness and decreased endurance can be taught by the OT.
How can I receive Occupational Therapy?
If you think you would benefit from the expertise of an Occupational Therapist, contact your personal physician for a referral. Or, you can seek out a private practice Occupational Therapist in your area.
Occupational Therapy can assist you to Live Life To Its Fullest.
Occupational Therapy can assist you to Live Life To Its Fullest.