By: Meryl Abag

The Rehabilitation process that helps individuals relearn the skills they need to be independent through the use of therapeutic activities What is Occupational Therapy?

Enhances people’s ability to perform tasks in their daily living and work environment Bathing Dressing Cooking Eating What do OT’s do?

Role of an Occupational Therapist Supports those with permanent disabilities with the use of adaptive epuipments Special keyboard/mouse Voice-controlled lights Adaptive utensils Reaching tools

Roles of an Occupational Therapist Helps integrate one’s environment based on individual’s specific needs Stairlifts Raised toilet seats Grab rails Ramps

Role of an Occupational Therapist Implements physical activity and exercise to promote strength and dexterity

Role of an Occupational Therapist May evaluate and modify individual’s work environment Plan work activities Assesses client’s progress

Clients Range from all age groups from birth to old age

POPULATION Amputees Autism ADD/ADHD Car accidents Chronic Arthritis Developmental Delays Head Injury Muscular Dystrophy Parkinson’s Disease Stroke Spinal Cord Injuries Work-Related Injuries

Work Conditions 40-hour week Large Rehab Centers Spacious Equipped with machines, tools, & devices

Work Conditions School Modified classroom equipment One-on-one sessions Small groups Early intervention therapies

Work Conditions Sensory Integration Gym Tactile toys and balls Textured puzzles and books Vibrating furniture Ball pools Swings

Working Conditions Hospital Hours vary Inpatient/outpatient Adults to old age Rehab Gym

Work Conditions Driving Rehabilitation Specialized training Assess an individual’s ability to drive Clinical tests On-the-road tests Adaptive equipment

Salary Average salary of $72,320 as of 2010 (based on the Bureau of Labor Statistics)

How to become an OT? Must have a Bachelor’s degree; preferably in the Health field Observational Hours Graduate from an accredited Master’s degree of Occupational Therapy Program Doctorate’s degree is optional

For more Information Look at the Bureau of Labor StatisticsBureau of Labor Statistics