OT For The Ages
April 16, 2024 | Community Based Services, Health & Wellness, Resources
Occupational Therapy’s vital role in senior care
As we celebrate National Occupational Therapy Month, let’s look at the vital role occupational therapy (OT) plays in senior care. Did you know that 77% of individuals aged 50 and over want to maintain their independence and stay in their own homes as they age? OT can provide the essential support and guidance needed to make this desire a reality.
What is Occupational Therapy?
It’s a holistic rehabilitation approach that focuses on enabling people of all ages to fully engage in their daily lives. And it’s becoming more popular: In the last decade, there’s been a 31% jump in people using OT outpatient services. The biggest users tend to be veterans and people aged 50 or older . Whether it’s working, caring for loved ones, pursuing hobbies, or any other meaningful activity, OT ensures people can continue their occupation and lifestyle with confidence and ease.
Occupational therapy usually begins with an evaluation of the person’s experiences and interests. The therapist then creates a tailored plan to enhance the person’s abilities and tracks their progress.
What can it accomplish?
OT helps people maintain their ability to do a lot of different things, including daily living activities such as eating, dressing, and bathing, as well as lifestyle activities like shopping, meal prep, and even budgeting. It helps people manage their health, make the most of their rest and sleep, continue working and playing, enjoy their leisure time, and participate in social activities. An occupational therapist can also provide caregiver support and education.
While occupational therapy benefits individuals of all ages, it can be especially important for older adults. By making everyday tasks easier and safer to perform, it enhances mobility and improves strength, balance, and coordination. Moreover, this therapy approach addresses cognitive decline and memory loss through engaging crafts, puzzles, and games, while also supporting emotional and social well-being by teaching effective stress management strategies.
The significance of OT becomes even more evident during recovery from surgery or a fall. Research indicates that following hip fracture surgery, it not only improves overall function but also enhances the individual’s perception of their own health and their emotional well-being. And the work of occupational therapists can help prevent hospital readmissions.
At Kline Galland, we offer a comprehensive range of OT services tailored to the unique needs of each individual. With the average age of these patients being just 55, our goal is to empower older adults and seniors to embrace life to the fullest, regardless of age or ability. If you’re ready to move toward a healthier, more fulfilling future, we’re here to support you every step of the way.
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Sources: Forbes; AOTA; Brickyard Healthcare; American Journal of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation; American Journal of Occupational Therapy; Pain Research & Management; NIH; International Journal of Endocrinology; CDC
