Occupational therapists help individuals improve their ability to perform daily tasks by recovering essential skills for independent living and working.
Responsibilities of occupational therapists
Occupational therapists (OTs) assist individuals in regaining the ability to perform everyday tasks, promoting physical and emotional well-being. They work with people recovering from injuries, managing disabilities, or coping with long-term illnesses, helping them perform essential activities like eating, dressing, and moving around.
What are OTs able to do?
OTs are able to assess physical functions, designing therapy plans, and adapting environments to suit individual needs. They may create splints, prescribe assistive equipment like wheelchairs, or recommend home modifications such as installing handrails.
OTs also provide education to caregivers, advise on workplace ergonomics, and help children with disabilities thrive in school settings. OTs often collaborate with other professionals, ensuring comprehensive care that can support a person's independence in both social and work environments.
An OT's role in workplace rehabilitation
In workplace rehabilitation, occupational therapists focus on restoring injured workers' functional abilities, helping them safely return to their roles. They work closely with employers, insurers, and healthcare teams for seamless recovery.
OTs also help prevent injuries by promoting safe work practices and assist workers with physical or emotional challenges.
Additionally, OTs design accessible workspaces for individuals with disabilities, improving safety and productivity.
Typical services offered by OTs:
- Activities of Daily Living (ADL) assessments: Evaluate the worker’s ability to perform basic tasks.
- Initial Needs Assessments: Identify what the worker requires for successful rehabilitation and return to work.
- Ergonomic Assessments: Evaluate and modify home or workplace setups for improved posture and safety.
- Manual Handling Training: Provide education on safe handling techniques to prevent further injury.
- Equipment Prescription: Recommend tools or special equipment to aid recovery.
- Home Modifications: Suggest adaptations like ramps or grab rails to improve accessibility.
- Skin and Pressure Care Assessments: Address skin integrity and prevent pressure sores.
- Care or Domestic Assistance Plans: Assess the need for additional home support to assist recovery.