What is Occupational Therapy?

Author: Lynn X. Li (MScOT Candidate) Editor: Dr. Tina Lam Reviewed by: Dr. G. Lee (MD)

Why need Occupational therapy？

Occupational Therapy (OT) helps people who are unable to participate in daily activities due to various reasons. This includes, but not limited to, chronic diseases, emotional problems, and different types of injuries. OT helps with

- Personal care: washing face, brushing teeth, and dressing, etc.

- Productive activities: reading, studying, working, eldercare and childcare, etc.

- Leisure activities: swimming, running, and socializing, etc.

In other words, occupational therapy can help you re-engage in the daily activities you want or need to do.

How does an Occupational Therapist help？

To help you identify the reasons that prevent you from doing your daily activities, the occupational therapist will try to assess the following

- Physical ability - strength and flexibility;

- Intelligence - memory, psychology;

- Living environment - cabinet that is too high for reach for clients with shoulder pain

- Social support- assess whether there is enough social support/ activities etc

Unlike physiotherapists, occupational therapists focus on whether you can engage in activities, and not whether you have the physical ability to perform. For example, the lack of grip strength makes it difficult for some clients to hold a toothbrush and maintain adequate oral hygiene. Instead of focus on increasing grip strength, the OT may help the client find strategies to perform this task, such as modifying the toothbrush handle to allow for an easier grip.

How to find an Occupational Therapist？

At the hospital - For inpatients, an occupational therapist might be seen during the hospitalization based on the patient's needs Consult your family doctor - For patients who have been discharged from the hospital and have returned to the community, you can consult your family doctor. Ask your local community health centre - You can also consult your local community health centre for more information on occupational therapy services.