Occupational therapy is a type of medical treatment that focuses on improving daily living skills by enhancing fine motor skills and movement coordination. While physiotherapy is about larger motor movements, the point of occupational therapy is to improve and strengthen the link of smaller movements to the brain. Someone might require occupational therapy after they have been in an accident or had a stroke. Additionally, individuals with chronic pain conditions, such as arthritis, often seek occupational therapy to improve mobility and reduce discomfort. People of all ages may need an occupational therapy program, but older adults are particularly likely to benefit due to age-related changes in strength, coordination, and dexterity
What Does an Occupational Therapist Do for Aging Adults?
As you get older, it’s completely normal for your motor skills to begin to worsen. Occupational therapy is there to help patients close the gap. Contrary to popular opinion, occupational therapy is not just for when emergencies or accidents occur. In fact, OT is a great way for aging adults to maintain fine motor skills and improve their range of motion so they can remain living independently.
What Does an Occupational Therapist Do?
Occupational therapists specialize in adult rehabilitation therapy, working with individuals to enhance their ability to complete everyday activities. This often includes hand therapy for adults, improving cognitive therapy techniques, and using assistive tools to regain functional movement. An occupational therapist is not a once-off appointment. In fact, regaining the ability to perform tasks of daily living can take several appointments spread over weeks or months.
For older adults, occupational therapists tailor rehabilitation programs to address age-related challenges. Sessions may involve stroke recovery therapy, chronic pain management, or guidance on using adaptive equipment to simplify daily tasks. The goal is to improve quality of life while maintaining physical and cognitive abilities.
Who Needs an Occupational Therapist?
An occupational therapist can be necessary at any age due to rehabilitation or a specific physical condition.
Age can physically slow you down, and getting older can mean that you are more affected by health conditions such as arthritis and discomfort in the joints. While an occupational therapist can be necessary after a life-changing event such as a stroke or accident, this is not the most common reason people see an occupational therapist.
Anyone who notices a decline in the mobility of their joints and general movement could benefit from occupational therapy as well as physiotherapy. Although medication can make a big difference and reduce pain and discomfort, this is a temporary solution. Instead, the introduction of occupational therapy programs can make a huge difference in relieving symptoms long term.
Key Benefits of Occupational Therapy?
The primary goal of occupational therapy is to improve daily living skills training, reduce inflammation and pain, and promote physical longevity. A licensed occupational therapist works closely with adults to develop personalized therapy plans, focusing on strength, flexibility, and motor coordination.
For aging adults, occupational therapy can:
- Improve functional mobility for greater independence
- Reduce chronic pain and discomfort in joints
- Provide training on adaptive equipment to make daily tasks easier
- Help prevent falls through balance and strength training
- Support stroke recovery therapy and hand therapy rehabilitation
As mobility changes with age, even simple activities such as dressing, eating, or holding objects can become difficult. Occupational therapy techniques restore confidence and make these tasks manageable again.
Who Are Aging Adults?
The term elderly typically refers to anyone above the age of 65. This is the point at which the body starts to respond in different ways. Things such as collagen and bone don’t grow or heal as fast as they used to. At this age, conditions like arthritis might also become a real problem.
When the signs of these conditions begin to show up, see an occupational therapist as soon as possible. Occupational therapists work in conjunction with physical therapists on strength and balance training to help prevent falls. Don’t wait until a serious emergency or injury happens to make occupational therapy a priority. It can benefit someone’s health in many ways to look for a good occupational therapist earlier rather than later.
How to Find an Occupational Therapist Near You
If you want to find a trusted occupational therapist in your area, head to Google and search for an “occupational therapist near you”. Consider reviews, and look for an occupational therapist that matches your needs the most. Never be afraid to call several, and never be afraid to switch from one occupational therapist to another. Finding the best occupational therapist for you can lead to a better quality of life and movement.
At Nye Health Services, we offer outpatient therapy at all of our five locations in Fremont, Lincoln, Norfolk, NE, and the surrounding areas. We have licensed occupational therapists on staff to help along with complimentary transportation. We also take Medicare, Medicaid, and most private health insurance. With outpatient therapy services, you get access to experienced professionals and personalized treatment plans to fit your needs.
Additional Information: Occupational Therapy Interventions for Productive Aging Among Community-Dwelling Older Adults
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