OT: Helping Residents Get Back to Doing the Things They Love

Occupational Therapy: it is the only profession that focuses specifically on helping people across the lifespan to do the things they want and need to do through the therapeutic use of daily activities (occupations). Practitioners enable individuals of all ages to live life to its fullest by helping them promote health, and prevent—or live better with—injury, illness, or disability.

Occupational therapy (OT) is an ever-evolving profession that has, over time, grown to become an essential and in-demand healthcare field. In its early stages, before it was even known as occupational therapy, it was a method to provide humane care for the mentally ill. Over the span of three centuries, it has evolved into a profession that helps provide rehabilitative services to individuals with mental, physical, or cognitive impairments.

Today, Occupational Therapy practitioners use a holistic, person-centered perspective. The focus is placed on adapting the environment and/or task to fit the person with the individual always an integral part of the therapy process. It is an evidence-based practice deeply rooted in science. Using their clinical understanding of the aging process, the OT can enable older adults to participate in meaningful activities in their environment that match their individual abilities and personal preferences. Let’s celebrate how OT can enhance function, promote relationships and social participation, and find ways for individuals to enjoy life!

Top 10 Most Cost Effective OT Interventions

to Promote Wellness and Participation:

1) Aging in place/home modifications

2) Fall prevention

3) Low vision and safety

4) Community mobility

5) Social participation

6) Dementia

7) Caregiver education

8) Wellness and health promotion

9) Mental health

10) Chronic disease management