Who Can Benefit from Occupational Therapy Services?

You may have heard the term “occupational therapy” and wondered exactly what it is, and who can benefit from this type of service. Although it may sound like a type of on-the-job training program, occupational therapy actually has nothing to do with one’s occupation. Rather, it refers to therapeutic services that cover a wide range of needs, helping clients to achieve:

• Enhanced functionality with activities of daily living (such as bathing, dressing, and eating)
• Optimized body strength
• Improved balance and reduced risk of falls
• Skill in utilizing adaptive and safety devices
• Full training on fabricating and fitting splints, joint protection, wheelchair seating and positioning, energy conservation, and much more

For those struggling with physical or emotional limitations, cognitive decline, or recovery from a stroke, fall, or other debilitating condition, occupational therapists can specifically help through providing:

• Assessments of the home and recommendations for home safety equipment
• Life/social skill training and/or academic guidance, as needed
• Exercise and other physical activity planning and assistance in implementing that plan
• Mobility and driving skill development
• Specialized care plans for those with conditions such as Parkinson’s disease, MS, or Alzheimer’s
• Fall prevention body mechanic recommendation
• And more

The occupational therapist will work hand-in-hand with other members of the person’s care team, such as nurses, physical and speech therapists, home health aides, and home care companions to optimize independence, health, and safety. Ideally, the occupational therapist meets with the patient right in the comfort of home, where an in-home assessment is performed, goals are outlined, and a plan is implemented and modified ongoing as needs change.

To The Rescue’s in-home senior care team works with individuals of all ages to help make life safer and more fulfilling, and to ensure that each person is living to his or her fullest possible potential. And our services are always provided in the individual’s home environment, allowing for the utmost convenience and comfort – whether home is in a personal residence, nursing home, assisted living facility or group home.

To learn more about our medical and non-medical in-home care services for individuals of all ages, contact the home care experts at To The Rescue. You can reach us by phone any time at 720-851-2100 in Colorado, or 319-826-6068 in Iowa. We’re here to answer any questions you may have or to schedule a free in-home consultation.