Occupational therapy (OT) is an essential part of home health and a helpful treatment modality for individuals recovering from an injury, living with a chronic medical condition, or being elderly. If you’re unfamiliar with this type of treatment, we’ll provide some clarity in this blog by giving a brief definition and examples of the many real-life benefits OT can provide.
What Is Occupational Therapy (OT)?
The National Association of Occupational Therapists defines occupational therapy as a branch of therapy that helps people participate in things they want and need to do with treatment involving everyday activities.
For example, suppose a patient is elderly and struggling to complete a particular daily task like showering. In that case, an occupational therapist might work with them to adapt by modifying their home environment or using special equipment and strategies to accommodate their physical needs.
OT is often regarded as a type of treatment reserved for elderly patients or adults, but kids can significantly benefit from this type of care. Occupational therapists can also work with children who have cognitive and physical disabilities to help them adapt to setbacks, learn new skills, and live a better life as they age.
What Are the Benefits of Occupational Therapy in Home Health?
Depending on the patient and their health, daily tasks like holding a pencil or getting dressed in the morning can be challenging. Fortunately, home health OT can significantly improve a patient’s quality of life, whether they are elderly, recovering from an injury, or are living with autism, dementia, rheumatoid arthritis, or another medical condition. Here are some of the main benefits of OT in home health.
- It improves a patient’s self-esteem.
- It specifically addresses each patient’s unique challenges.
- It reduces feelings of stress, anxiety, and depression.
- It helps patients adapt to changes in their physical abilities or regain physical strength as they recover.
- It gives patients the ability to recover at home in a comfortable and low-stress environment.
- It encourages social interaction.
Interested in Learning More About Home Health Occupational Therapy?
Contact Phoenix Home Care and Hospice for more information. We provide skilled OT services for clients with chronic medical conditions who need extra assistance at home. We’d love to partner with you to enhance your or your loved one’s home health experience.
