Occupational therapy is designed to assist individuals of all ages in participating in the things they need and want to do, by using everyday activities in a therapeutic way. An Occupational Therapist (OT) is essentially a skilled health profession who is dedicated to the enhancement and maximization of performance and function so that individuals can live healthier, more satisfying and more productive lives.
A licensed occupational therapist Kalgoorlie professional can assist individuals with strengthening their upper body, achieving better balance and improving home safety. In addition, the therapist can help with teaching individuals how to properly use recommended adaptive equipment and in educating caregivers and family members on the best methods of caring for their loved ones.
If it is recognized by a nurse that a patient is experiencing challenges carrying out activities of daily living like eating, bathing or dressing, he or she may request a referral for the services of an OT. Nurses make up an essential part of a full care team and they work together with the OT to assist individuals with reaching individual goals and maintaining maximum levels of independence.
Frequently, OTs suggest activities or modifications to assist a number of individuals in achieving personal goals. They have the knowledge, expertise and equipment to assist individuals with disabilities in fully participating in social or academic settings, assisting individuals recovering from injury with regaining a particular skillset and providing support for seniors who are experiencing cognitive or physical decline.
For instance, if the survivor of a stroke survivor experienced loss of certain functions on one side of his or her body, the OT would evaluate the home to ascertain whether there is any safety concern and if there is, he or she would formulate a customized plan. This could include recommendations for home modifications like the addition of a wheelchair ramp, a shower bench, safety bars or other pieces of adaptive equipment.
After which, the OT would train the patient on how to properly use the new equipment to assist the individual in maintaining a sense of normalcy as he or she adjusts to the new surroundings. In addition, the OT would also train the family members of the patient as to how to use the equipment, how daily exercises should be led or other methods that can be used to provide the best support for their loved ones.
Occupational therapy can assist individual with returning to their previous functioning level and in increasing independence. Whether individuals need help with home safety, socialization or post-hospital recovery, an occupational therapist Kalgoorlie can assist in meaningful ways.
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