How Occupational Therapy Works
Are you in need of occupational therapy and wondering how it works? We can help you. Occupational therapy (OT) helps treat injured, disabled or ill patients through the use of various techniques and exercises. This helps patients perform everyday activities. Therapy also helps patients recover and improve their conditions. They type of exercises that are performed vary depending on the conditions and needs of each patient. For example, a patient with Parkinsonā€™s disease will have a unique treatment plan compared to someone recovering from a stroke. Learn what occupational therapy does.
Occupational therapy helps patients overcome everyday life struggles. The clinicians of Cornerstone Rehab work with older adults and seniors in skilled nursing facilities. For the elderly population, even normal daily activities such as walking can be difficult. Occupational therapy works by teaching them exercise and rehab techniques so they can complete their daily tasks such as dressing, eating and bathing easily and not get discouraged. OT helps by improving their fine and basic motor skills, range of motion, strength and dexterity.
Elderly individuals are at high risk for falls that could cause serious injuries. When an older individual falls, they are more likely to have fractures and a slower recovery due to age. Occupational therapy also teaches elderly patients methods that can prevent falls. This includes teaching them balance and muscle building exercises.
Occupational therapists may also assess the living space of their patients and recommend modifications to promote independent living. Some modifications can include:
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Handrails
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Grab bars in shower
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Walk-in showers or bathtubs
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Wheelchair ramps
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Power lift recliners