Everyday tasks like getting dressed, eating or writing should feel routine. However, when these simple activities become difficult, it may be a sign to seek support. Occupational Therapy (OT) helps people of all ages address challenges in their daily lives stemming from physical, cognitive or emotional difficulties. Whether due to injury, illness or developmental conditions, OT provides personalized strategies to improve function and enhance overall well-being.

What is Occupational Therapy?

The purpose of OT is to improve an individual’s abilities to perform daily activities, become more independent and increase their quality of life. Occupational Therapists assess patients and develop custom treatment plans aimed at improving their ability to perform tasks at home and at work.

Evaluation

When first meeting with an Occupational Therapist, you will discuss your goals, explore your limitations and gain a better understanding of what you hope to achieve. Reviewing past medical history and current restrictions will help them come up with the most efficient course of action.  

Intervention

The intervention step is where the bulk of your work takes place with your Occupational Therapist. This includes tools, resources or other changes in your environment or routine that help you perform tasks most efficiently. This could be a physical device, such as a prosthetic limb or wheelchair, or a detailed plan like an exercise regimen to improve physical strength and coordination. By collaborating with your OT, you will identify the resource(s) that will help you achieve your goals.

Outcome

Outcomes are the last portion of your work on a particular goal. For some patients, this may mean completion of Occupational Therapy, while for others, this may be the first of many steps to getting better! During this phase, you will identify the barriers you have overcome, the challenges that persist and the achievements you have made. A plan for the future will be developed, whether it involves continued therapy or transitioning to independent progress. The outcomes stage is all about recognizing the goals you’ve met and planning the next steps in your journey.

Good Candidates

People of all ages experience limitations in their daily activities due to injury, illness, developmental delays or physical problems. Ideal participants may include:

• Children with developmental delays or sensory processing challenges
• People who have suffered from an injury that impacts their ability to function (stroke, brain injury, spinal cord injury, etc.)
• Seniors who have suffered from a fall
• People who have neurological conditions that impact their ability to perform daily activities

Benefits

• Enhancing Daily Life Skills: Self-care tasks or instrumental activities
• Improving Physical Abilities: Muscle strength, fine motor skills, pain management
• Promotes Social Participation: Communication strategies, social skills/interactions
• Mental Health Support: Recognize concerns early, reduce stress and anxiety

Talk to your primary care provider if you think you might benefit from Occupational Therapy. OT may be challenging at first; trying something new or pushing your body/mind out of your comfort zone always is. Throughout your time, you can address your goals for a better you physically, emotionally, mentally and socially.

Southwoods Physical Therapy & Rehabilitation Services has locations in Boardman, Youngstown and Calcutta. For more information, contact our team today!