What is Occupational Therapy (OT)?

Occupational Therapy (OT) focuses on restoring participation in the activities you want to do, need to do, and love to do; the activities that occupy your time. These activities can include basic self-care tasks like dressing and eating, household chores like cooking and cleaning, or more complex tasks like managing finances or returning to work. Occupational therapists (OTs) focus on improving your independence, helping you engage in these activities safely, and finding ways to adapt when needed.

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How Does OT Help with Neurological Conditions?

When a neurological condition affects the brain or nervous system, it can make tasks that were once easy more difficult. OT addresses the specific challenges you may face by working on the skills needed for daily living. These skills can include:

• Self-care: Getting dressed, brushing your teeth, bathing, or grooming can become more challenging due to physical or cognitive changes. OTs teach techniques to make these tasks easier or recommend adaptive tools and strategies to improve independence.

• Home management: Many people with neurological conditions need help getting back to activities like cooking, cleaning, and organizing. OTs can suggest methods to make tasks more manageable or help you practice these activities in a safe, structured way.

• Work and school: Returning to work or school after a neurological condition may require adjustments. OTs can help you build the skills to focus, organize, and manage your time so you can succeed in these settings.

• Leisure and social activities: Hobbies and socializing with others are an important part of life. OTs help you explore ways to engage in meaningful activities—whether it’s gardening, crafting, playing a sport, or spending time with friends and family.

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How Do OTs Support Your Recovery?

OTs help you build on your strengths while improving areas where you're struggling. The goal is to improve your independence, reduce frustration, and enhance your overall well-being. By focusing on the activities that are most meaningful to you, occupational therapy supports your recovery and helps you live a fuller, more engaged life.

 

What Does OT Treatment Look Like?

Whenever possible, occupational therapists use the activities you value most as a way to deliver treatment. For example, an occupational therapy treatment may include buying ingredients at a grocery store, prepping (chopping, peeling, etc.) the ingredients, and cooking a meal you can enjoy for lunch. The activity is enjoyable but also structured in a way that allows you to practice the skills you need to improve.