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Unlocking the Gateway 
to Independence 

Leaf Pattern
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Occupational Therapy

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Occupational therapy assists individuals who face challenges with daily activities due to illnesses, disabilities, or injuries. It aims to promote independence, restore the ability to perform tasks and manage psychological issues in everyday life. Occupational therapists develop personalized plans based on the patient's condition, environment, and activities, focusing on restoring full function, managing conditions, teaching adaptive skills, and improving quality of life.

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An occupation refers to any activity that we need, want, or enjoy doing, not just jobs or daily living activities. It includes self-care (e.g., washing, eating, sleeping), productive activities (e.g., work, study, caregiving, domestic tasks), and leisure (e.g., sports, hobbies, socializing).

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What Does Occupational Therapy Involve?

Initial Assessment:

  • Occupational therapy begins with understanding the patient's needs, home environment, family, and important activities, and discussing the effects of health on everyday life.

  • A goal-oriented plan is created, targeting specific activities with practical, realistic, and personal adjustments.

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Therapy Components:

  • Practicing Everyday Skills: Activities such as dressing, preparing food, and household chores.

  • Learning and Practicing Skills: For school, work, or leisure activities.

  • Developing Strategies: Personal strategies to achieve individual goals.

  • Movement and Perception Exercises: Enhance coordination and sensory processing.

  • Concentration and Memory Exercises: Improve cognitive functions.

  • Manual and Creative Exercises: Stimulate mental and physical engagement.

  • Daily Routine Structuring: Organizing and optimizing daily activities.

  • Home or Workplace Modifications: Adapting environments for better accessibility and safety.

  • Use of Medical Aids: Training in the use of aids such as walkers or prostheses.

  • Advice and Guidance: Providing support and education for patients and caregivers.​​​​​​​

When to see an Occupation Therapist

​Children and Adolescents:

  • Supports growth, learning, socialization, and play for babies, infants, children, and adolescents. Focuses on self-care, social skills, productivity, and leisure activities.

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Physical Disabilities, Illnesses, Injuries, and Long-term Conditions:​

  • Assists individuals with disabilities and long-term conditions to optimize their life. This includes post-illness/injury recovery, post-operation, and conditions such as:​

    • Muscle, joint, or skeletal problems (such as rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, or a broken bone)

    • Developmental disorders – for instance, related to motor (movement) disorders, autism, or physical and mental disabilities

    • Cerebral palsy

    • Diabetes

    • Down syndrome

    • Amputations, prostheses, or joint replacements

    • Medical conditions affecting the brain (such as dementia, stroke, Parkinson's disease, traumatic brain injury, multiple sclerosis)

    • Cancer

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Learning Disabilities:

  • Aids in enjoying life, work, and leisure activities independently. Includes support for activities around the home, voluntary work, employment, and parenting skills. Involves family and support workers.

    • Attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder  

    • Dyslexia

    • Dysgraphia

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Mental Health Conditions:

  • Helps individuals with conditions like depression, anxiety, and OCD to enjoy everyday activities and enhance their chances of recovery. Focuses on self-care, managing finances, building confidence, and developing professional skills.

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The Elderly:

  • Assists older adults in activities important to them, enhancing well-being and health. This includes providing solutions for safety and activity, social opportunities, and increasing confidence in social interactions.

    • Arthritis

    • Dementia

    • Parkinson's

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End of Life:

  • Supports individuals to have a fulfilling end of life by focusing on valued activities. Teaches energy conservation strategies, organizes equipment, and makes environmental changes for comfort and dignity.​​ 

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