Occupational therapists (OT) help people get back to everyday activities — the “jobs of living” (occupations). They help the patient change some part of their life — by developing skills, improving physical and emotional abilities, adapting the environment or changing the way they do activities — so the patient can better cope with aging, disease, injury or illness.
What Do Occupational Therapists Do?
- Teach patients how to use medical or adaptive equipment to overcome barriers and make life easier (for example: ergonomic office tools, power wheelchairs, kitchen utensils)
- Develop a patient’s skills to cope with anxiety, stress, decreased energy or the normal aging process
- Develop a patient’s skills to handle problems with memory, attention, organization or perception
- Problem solve with a patient to discover and teach new ways to perform household chores, hobbies or work activities
Where Do Occupational Therapists Work?
- Hospitals or Healthcare Centres
- Long-Term Care Facilities
- Health Clinics
- Schools
- Communities
Occupational Therapists at AHS
Alberta Health Services employs over 1,100 occupational therapists.
What Are the Credentials of an Occupational Therapist?
Links
