Other Health Services
Occupational Therapy - Rehabilitation Services
Consumers - When Can An Occupational Therapist Help?
To gain a better understanding of just how an Occupational
Therapist may be able to help you or a loved one, consider
the following examples.
A woman recovering from depression is having difficulty
returning to work.
An Occupational Therapist would assist the woman by helping
her plan and organize the steps required to take the bus
or perform one of the work tasks she needs to do.
A child with cerebral palsy needs to have play in her life
as well as the ability to manage at school.
An Occupational Therapist may prescribe a specialized wheelchair
that would allow the child to remain upright for feeding,
reach toys in front of her, access a school bus and participate
in activities with classmates. The Occupational Therapist
may also develop a specialized assistive device to facilitate
writing or using a computer.
A senior citizen has had a stroke. He lives alone and no
longer has the use of his left arm and hand.
An Occupational Therapist would teach this gentleman strategies
to manage everyday activities, such as putting on his shirt
or preparing a meal, using one hand. She might also introduce
specialized assistive devices to him that would allow him
to maintain his independence and still be safe.
A secretary who does data entry all day long is complaining
of neck and back strain.
By analyzing the woman's activity coupled with the specifics
of her work environment, the Occupational Therapist would
make recommendations based on ergonomics that would alter
her task environment to see to her particular needs and
so alleviate her symptoms.
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