Occupational Therapy

The American Occupational Therapy Association describes occupational therapy as skilled treatment that helps individuals achieve independence in all facets of their lives. It gives people the "skills for the job of living" that are necessary for independent and satisfying lives. Occupational therapy services typically include:

• Customized treatment programs to improve one's ability to perform daily activities
• Comprehensive home and job site evaluations with adaptation recommendations
• Performance skills assessments and treatment
• Adaptive equipment recommendations and usage training
• Guidance to family members and caregivers

Occupational therapy services are delivered in a variety of settings.  Some of the settings are schools, hospitals, rehabilitation centers, skilled nursing and assisted living facilities, and mental health clinics.

Persons with the following conditions may benefit from occupational therapy.

Alzheimer's disease	Low vision
Amputation	Conditions related to aging
Arthritis	Mood disorders
Attention deficit & hyperactivity disorders	Musculoskeletal trauma
Autism	Parkinson's disease
Carpal tunnel syndrome	Repetitive motion disorders
Cerebral Palsy	Schizophrenia
Chronic pain Delayed development	Stroke
Fibromyalgia	Substance abuse
Hand injuries	Sensory dysfunction
Hip fracture/ replacement	Spinal cord injury
Learning disabilities	Traumatic brain injury

To read more about occupational therapy and the services occupational therapists provide, visit these web sites:

• American Occupational Therapy Association at www.aota.org
• Consumers Information at www.aota.org/featured/area6/index.asp
• Consumers Guide at www.promoteot.org/CG_ConsumersGuide.html