What is an Occupational Therapist? How can you get help?

Imagine you have had an accident, lost a limb, or suffered a stroke, and are finding it difficult to do things on your own like you used to. Even simple things like holding a cup, putting on clothes, or making a meal on your own have become a big challenge. This is where an occupational therapist comes to your aid. They help you get your life back on track.

Who is this Occupational Therapist?

Simply put, an occupational therapist is a health professional who helps you return to your old ways and as independently as possible when you have difficulty performing daily tasks due to an illness, accident, or disability.

The word "occupational" here doesn't just mean your job. It includes all the important things you do every day, from getting up in the morning and brushing your teeth, to getting dressed, cooking, taking care of your children, using a computer, and doing your hobbies. These are all parts of your life. So, their job is to show you how to do these things safely and independently again.

An occupational therapist is a very important member of your care team. They work closely with your primary care physician (PCP) and other specialists.

You can find an occupational therapist in a hospital or in their office. But in addition, they can come to your workplace to help you with your daily needs.

• Come to your house.
• To your workplace.
• To where you study, that is, to school, to university.
• Sometimes they even train them to go to public places like a shop or a temple and work.

Is an occupational therapist a doctor?

This is a question that many people have. No, occupational therapists are not medical doctors (MDs).

That means they don't have the authority to diagnose, prescribe medication, or perform surgery. All they do is help you live with the condition your doctor has diagnosed and function in your daily life. They are specially trained health professionals.

What exactly do they do? How can they help you?

An occupational therapist will work with you to first identify your challenges. Then, they will discuss with you what goals you want to achieve. Next, they will develop the best method for achieving those goals.

Everyone's goals are different, but here are some things they generally help with:

• Getting dressed alone:If someone with arthritis has difficulty buttoning buttons, they are taught how to use a small device to help.
• Eating and cooking: A person with a limp is taught how to eat with a spoon or fork that is designed to be comfortable for the hand. Or how to hold a knife safely when cutting a vegetable.
• Taking medication on time: For someone with a weak memory, a pill box can be used to help them remember to take their medication on time.
• Buying things with money: It re-introduces the child to things like going to a store, choosing items, counting money, and giving them to the child.
• Driving or using public transportation: If you need to drive again after an accident, you will be given exercises to improve the coordination and attention required. You will be taught how to get on and off a bus.
• Using a computer or other technological devices: If someone who needs a computer for work has a hand injury or pain, they will be taught how to use a mouse or keyboard in a way that will reduce the pain.

What types of conditions does occupational therapy help with?

You can seek help from an occupational therapist for any type of injury, condition, or disability that interferes with your daily activities. Let's take a look at what these conditions are.

What is the difference between an occupational therapist (OT) and a physical therapist (PT)?

Many people get the two confused. Occupational Therapists (OTs) and Physical Therapists (PTs) are both rehabilitation professionals who help you move and strengthen your body. However, their areas of focus are slightly different.

To understand clearly, let's look at this difference.

Sometimes you may need to receive treatment from both of these therapists at the same time. This will be determined by your doctor based on your condition.

Working with an occupational therapist isn't an overnight process. It's a process that takes time. Be honest with them about what you want and what your goals are. Tell them the things that are really important to you, like "I want to get back to working in my garden" or "I want to be able to hold my grandchild." Then they can help you reach those goals in the best way possible.