Occupational Therapy plays an important role in senior care and home care.
I have had the privilege of working with many talented and passionate occupational therapists over the years. Many patients have needed assistance with home safety, arranging home areas safely for activities, strengthening their balance and bodies, education in performance of daily activities, and much more. Many patients and families have not been aware of all the ways that occupational therapists can help to keep them safe at home. I cannot tell you all the times I had a client state ” I don’t know what an OT does but I don’t think I need them” to find they had unsafe set up in their bathroom and struggled with self care in dressing and cooking…
Occupational Therapist focus on safety and self care for seniors. Strengthening arms and grip is extremely important for daily activities. Cooking, cleaning, dressing, and grooming all depend on healthy arm strength and motion. Exercises can reduce pain, increase mobility, and improve quickness in performance with all of these activities. An OT can also help problem solve through areas of difficulty, making your activity safer or less painful. Consequently, a good evaluation and treatment plan from a licensed Occupational Therapist can contribute to keeping a senior safe and independent.
Why celebrate Occupational Therapy Month:
The occupational therapists that I have worked with have provided so much to clients and co workers alike. They have offered encouragement to patients who were exhausted and wanting to give up, they have provided purpose in helping people regain function and abilities, and they have helped patients to see potential, with practical steps to attain their goals. From the occupational therapists that I have worked with, I have gained much insight, many helpful tips, and learned creative adaptations to help my patients remain as independent and safe as possible.
Common issues that an Occupational Therapist can provide care for :
- Evidence Based Grip Strength Assessment
- Upper Extremity Strength and Balance
- Grip Strengthening Tips
- Gardening Safety tips
- Urinary Tract Health
- Bathroom set up and safety
- Kitchen Safety
- Dressing and Cleaning
Encouraging Occupational Therapist Related Quotes:
OT practitioners know that hope still glimmers in the darkest hour. Unknown
Man, through the use of his hands, as they are energized by mind and will, can influence the state of his own health. Mary Reily, OTR EdD
You have not lived today until you have done something for someone else who can never repay you. John Bunyan
How we spend or days is, of course, how we spend our lives. Annie Dillard
I long to accomplish a great and noble task: but it is my chief duty to accomplish small tasks as if they were great and noble. Helen Keller
Cute Gift Ideas for your Favorite Occupational Therapist (or yourself!)
Check out this cute OT notebook! (affiliate link)
Show some OT love with this OT retractable badge holder! (affiliate link)
Here is a FREE Printable calendar you can download and use for patient or family care:
Check out this cute low cost printable eval packet for your favorite OT!
You may also like:
Improve Grip Strength with These 10 Tips
Safety Equipment Recommendations
Transitioning to a Job in Home Health Care
What are your thoughts on Occupational Therapy in Senior Care or Home Care? Get started on your organized health journey by subscribing to the blog for a FREEBIE senior care printable packet, and weekly updates on senior caregiving and senior health!