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3 Ways Occupational Therapists Get You Back to Activities

After an injury or illness, simple daily tasks may become more complicated or frustrating to perform. That’s where occupational therapists come in. They can help you relearn daily self-care and leisure activities, such as cooking, bathing, teeth brushing, dressing, and more. Three ways they can help you return to your activities include:

1. Modifying the activity.
   This could include providing new ways to hold or carry a cooking pot, squeeze a tube of toothpaste, or remove clothes from the washing machine.
2. Teaching a new way to do the activity.
   Examples would include learning how to use an assistive device such as a cane, walker, or wheelchair. Or learning how to use a device to help get dressed such as a dressing stick, shoe horn, or sock and stocking aid.
3. Suggesting environment modifications.
   Home modifications may include installation of bars in the bathroom in the shower or near the toilet. Kitchen items and shelves may be adjusted for easier access. Railings can be installed in hallways or stairwells.

At our hospital, we have an activity of daily living space that emulates home conditions. Patients can practice activities with a therapist to learn how to do them safely and effectively before returning home.