Occupational Therapy and Adult Physical Rehabilitation

Occupational Therapy and Adult Physical Rehabilitation


What Kinds of People Use OT Services?

Occupational therapists work with adults from all
walks of life and address a range of therapy
needs.
Occupational therapists may work with
individuals with:
• Multiple sclerosis
• Motor-neuron disease
• Muscular dystrophy
• Parkinson's disease
• Cerebral palsy
• Head injuries
• Low vision
• Hearing impairment
• Strokes
• Spinal injuries
• Heart attacks
• Cancer
• Arthritis
• Hand injuries
• Hip replacements
• Amputations
• Back/neck injuries
• Work-related injuries


What Services do OTs Provide?


Occupational therapists provide a variety of
services to maximize a client's level of
independence, including:
• Assessment/rehabilitation of skills in self
care, home duties, performance at work or
school, driving and leisure
• Physical rehabilitation to improve coordination,
strength and movement
• Hand therapy and splinting
• Cognitive (thinking) and memory assessment
and retraining
• Ergonomic assessment and modification
• Training in work simplification and energy
conservation
• Home assessment and modification
• Prescription of, and education in use of,
adapted equipment
• Counseling and education
• Stress management and relaxation
The goal is to maximize the client's skills for
living.


Where do OTs Work?

Occupational therapists specialising in adult
physical rehabilitation may be found working in
a wide range of settings, including:
• Public and private hospitals
• Medical rehabilitation units
• Community health centres
• Occupational health centres
• Home care services
• Retirement homes
• Psychiatric clinics, hostels and hospitals
• Vocational rehabilitation centres
• Tertiary education centres
• Independent Living Centres
• Private practice
• Commercial enterprises
• Pharmacies