As our loved ones continue to age, you may find that they have more difficultly performing everyday tasks as they once did. This can lead to an array of emotions, like sadness, confusion, and depression as they grapple to navigate these changes. For many seniors however, occupational therapy has helped to regain their independence. The month of April is recognized as Occupational Therapy Month. This post will explain what occupational therapy is and the ways in which it can help the elderly.
What is Occupational Therapy?
Occupational Therapy helps individuals of all ages develop, maintain, or recover the skills needed to complete daily activities. Often times, these skills may have been lost due to injury, illness, or age. These daily activities are also known as ‘occupations.’ It can consist of anything that the individual needs but also what they value in life. In terms of seniors, an occupational therapist may teach exercises to help them dress, eat, or bathe, to name a few.
Occupational Therapy vs. Physical Therapy
While occupational therapy focuses on helping patients participate in everyday tasks with more ease, physical therapy on the other hand, focuses on improving movement, mobility, and function. Both professions do, however, work in conjunction to help a patient recover fully.
An occupational therapist might help with the following:
- Daily Tasks (dressing, bathing, eating)
- Fall Prevention
- Memory Techniques
- Recommendations for home modifications
We all want to remain independent as long as possible. Contact Quality of Life Home Care & Hospice to see what in-home services we can help with!
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