After experiencing an injury or illness it can be hard to get back to things you love. Occupational therapy is one of the only professions that helps people of various ages achieve independence. In this field of therapy, practitioners are able to assist people on their road to recovery and get them back to their normal routines and hobbies.
At South Coast Post Acute, it is our mission to provide a high level of care to each of our patients. Our expert staff is here to guide you every step of the way in your recovery to ensure you have the best chance of rehabilitation. Read our article below and learn how occupational therapy is the key to getting you back on your feet.
What is Occupational Therapy?
Occupational Therapy is a type of therapy that is designed to help people of all ages develop, maintain, or regain skills necessary to perform daily living activities. Additionally, occupational therapists educate and work with a patient’s care team, which includes caregivers, doctors, nurses, social workers, and family members, to ensure the patient receives top-quality care.
Each patient is different, so it’s expected that each person’s treatment will depend on their specific needs. For example, a person who is suffering from Parkinson’s Disease will require a different plan of action than a person suffering from a fall injury. Partnering with an experienced occupational therapist will ensure you’re given the resources and guidance to meet your specific needs.
Occupational Therapy Is More Common Than You Think
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the demand for occupational therapists is rising with job growth expected to increase 27% by 2024. This is primarily due to the aging population, but it is also a result of the growing number of seniors battling serious medical conditions. These medical conditions include:
- Stroke
- Arthritis
- Alzheimer’s
- Dementia
- Tendonitis
- Nerve Compression Syndrome
Additionally, occupational therapy professionals are proficient in helping children with disabilities participate fully in school and social situations.
Occupational Therapy Helps Improve Vision Loss
It is estimated that 1 in 3 Americans over 65 years of age experience some type of vision loss or eye disease. Seniors who suffer from these conditions will likely struggle with doing everyday activities, which results in a higher risk of anxiety and depression.
Occupational therapists are able to help these patients by performing activities designed to improve their vision. Moreover, the therapist will recommend activities to improve a patient’s perceptual vision, pattern detection, and awareness. Not to mention offer suggestions to make the patient’s home safer. The occupational therapist may recommend:
- Removing clutter from the patient’s home
- Color coding household items and medications
- Improving the lighting in their home
- Using magnifiers to read small print
- Labeling appliances with brightly colored stickers
- Painting walls with light colors and outlets with darker ones
- Placing brightly colored tape on steps to prevent falls
Occupational Therapists Help Improve Memory Loss
Not only do occupational therapists improve patient’s physical health, but their mental health too. When therapists meet their patients, they will evaluate their cognitive abilities and create a road map based on their needs. Additionally, they’ll create a plan to maintain the patient’s strengths and work on areas of improvement. This may include playing memory-enhancing activities like:
- Labeling areas so patients can easily identify them
- Educate caregivers on effective techniques to handle personality changes
- Educate caregivers to help patients recall memories easier
South Coast Post Acute is the Right Choice For Therapy
South Coast Post Acute is a 5-star rated Medicare facility and private healthcare community in Southern California. For over 40 years, we’ve provided first-class service that emphasizes a high level of compassion and spirit. When you enroll in our facility you won’t just be treated as a patient, you’re treated like family. With a wide range of health services, our team of professionals is capable of helping you. Contact us today and learn how South Coast Post Acute’s staff can help you return to a normal life.