WHAT IS OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY?

 Occupational therapy is a discipline focused on rehabilitating people who

have difficulties performing work activities.
 Occupational therapy is a field of medicine that helps people with
disabilities maintain or regain their independence.
 Occupational therapy is a science that focuses on the role of occupation
in health

What is an example of occupational

therapy?
An occupational therapist helps patients develop the skills they
need to perform everyday tasks. The therapy can help with
anything from physical or mental disabilities to chronic illnesses.
The goal is to improve a person’s quality of life, enhance his or her
functioning, and help them resume normal activities. Occupational
therapists may use different methods, including exercises, activities,
and assistive devices.
In one example, a patient who suffered a spinal injury was treated
by an occupational therapist. She had lost her ability to walk, which
made her socially isolated. Her family and friends found it difficult
to visit her, and she was worried about going to public places. She
wasn’t confident using an electric wheelchair or using a disabled
bathroom. The therapist worked with her support team to improve
her mobility and self-confidence. The therapist also studied
different environments to determine if they were accessible and
safe for her.
Another example of occupational therapy involves strengthening
the arm of an individual with a disability. People with disabilities
often have weak arms and need to strengthen them. Some children
with autism need to strengthen their arms to help them manage
daily tasks. Overhead pulleys can cause pain or injury, but
occupational therapists are trained to guide and teach them new
ways to use their arms to prevent injury.