Occupational Therapy:

The Profession that Focuses on Life Skills

765-655-2639

For millions of people, the service of occupational therapy (OT) is a lifeline. People of all ages receive OT to help them participate in their daily activities. Sometimes people need occupational therapy to do things we take for granted, like getting dressed, being productive at school or work, eating unassisted, even socializing.

Occupational therapy doesn't just treat medical conditions, it helps people stay engaged in the activities that give them pleasure or a sense of purpose, despite challenges.

Occupational therapists help people surmount their disabilities or medical conditions to do everyday things. The nature of the therapy depends on the individual and the environment; occupational therapists consider the whole person when developing a therapy plan. Occupational therapists collaborate with physicians and other professionals to ensure a comprehensive approach.

Children, for instance, sometimes have behavioral or developmental problems that limit their educational progress. Lawmakers believe occupational therapy is so important to the well being of children, federal law mandates that schools offer occupational therapy to children who need it.

Occupational therapy is "outcome-oriented," which means therapists help clients work toward achievable performance goals.

In rehabilitation clinics or hospitals, occupational therapists and occupational therapist assistants help adults learn or regain skills that allow them to do meaningful things like working, driving, shopping, or preparing a meal. Many types of people need this kind of help everyday, from a worker injured on the job to a grandparent recovering from surgery or a stroke.

Occupational therapy helps avoid health problems, and, if unavoidable, makes it easier to live with those health problems.

Consider our growing senior population: Healthier people are living longer lives. Occupational therapy research suggests that keeping people active and healthy as they age improves their quality of life and can potentially lower their health care costs. There are occupational therapy programs that focus soley on wellness and prevention—to help seniors stay healthier and remain active in their homes and communities. In addition to prevention measures, therapists can suggest changes in the home environment to improve safety for people with reduced mobility and failing vision. In some communities, occupational therapists can also teach seniors new driving techniques to keep them driving safely.

Occupational therapy addresses one of the most important aspects of rehabilitation and recovery—the return to a normal life.

Occupational therapy has its century-old roots in helping war veterans return to their home-life. These days, occupational therapists work in clinics, rehabilitation hospitals and on the front lines of combat. As a carry-over from their roots, occupational therapy programs can range from helping veterans recognize and relieve stress to helping them learn to care for themselves after an injury, including the use artificial limbs.

At Putnam County Hospital, Occupational Therapy's major client base are those with orthopedic related difficulties. The two assigned Occupational Therapists also treat patients with neurological, neuromuscular, and developmental difficulties. In the near future, the Occupational Therapy Department in conjunction with the Physical Therapy Department and other departments within the hospital will launch an Occupational Health Service for PCH employees as well as treating patients having work-related injuries.

For more information, please feel free to call Rehabilitation Services at (765) 655-2639 and speak with one of our Occupational Therapists.