What is Occupational Therapy?
Occupational therapy is concerned with the assessment and
treatment of physical and psychiatric conditions using specific activities to
promote functional independence in all aspects of daily life. Occupational
therapy patients may range from infants to the elderly. Primary goal of
occupational therapy is to assist people in developing skills to participate
in the activities of everyday life. It deals with the patient’s physical,
social, attitudinal and legislative environments. Occupational therapy offers
creative solutions for carrying out daily activities. Occupational therapy is
relevant in physical rehabilitation, primary care, mental health, pediatrics,
environmental adaptation, care management, research and equipment for daily
living.
Occupational therapy involves a variety of health conditions.
They include work related injuries, arthritis, multiple sclerosis, birth
injuries, serious chronic conditions, developing disabilities, behavioral
problems, eating disorders, spinal cord injuries, sports injuries and
perceptual or cognitive problems. Occupational therapy deals with mental
health difficulties such as Alzheimer’s disease, schizophrenia and
post-traumatic stress.
Skilled professionals in occupational therapy are known as
occupational therapists. They are trained to assist people to overcome
limitations caused by injury or illness, psychological difficulties or the
effects of aging. They study about human growth and development with emphasis
on social, emotional and psychological effects. Occupational therapists assist
each individual to overcome dependence, maximize personal productivity and
well being in all aspects of life. Occupational therapists work in
occupational health centers, hospitals, rehabilitation units, community health
centers, home care services, psychiatric clinics, private practice, schools
and retirement homes.
Occupational therapy includes customized treatment programs.
An occupational therapist follows a holistic approach in developing treatment
programs. The ability of patient is evaluated on the basis of work, school,
home, lifestyle and family situation. The evaluation process includes standard
procedures, interviews, observations and consultation. After evaluation, the
occupational therapist talks with the patient and family members, and then
develops a treatment program. Occupational therapists also give guidance to
family members and care givers. The treatment may be in a clinic, residential
care center, school, workplace or home.
