Why Occupational Therapy is Important for Seniors
Maintaining independence is a major priority for most older adults. But the typical changes that come with age along with acute health issues can make it hard to keep up with your daily routine. In that case, occupational therapy could be the best way to adapt and overcome.
What is occupational therapy? It’s a type of treatment focused on helping people with health challenges cultivate, maintain or recover the ability to perform the activities of daily living. Read on to learn more about the work occupational therapists do and how it could benefit you or a loved one.
How an Occupational Therapist Helps Seniors
Curious about the benefits of occupational therapy for seniors? Therapists can help you or your loved one with a number of issues that affect older adults, including:
- Daily living challenges. Occupational therapists help seniors overcome issues with mobility, dexterity and strength in day-to-day tasks – things like dressing, eating, bathing. This type of therapy incorporates exercise regimens and education to help seniors do daily tasks safely based on their abilities.
- Risky living conditions. An occupational therapist can determine if the layout and fixtures of your home are safe for older adults. They’ll often recommend modifications like a walk-in shower, bathroom grab bars, slip-resistant flooring or chair lifts.
- Neurological care needs. Therapy can be key in the early stages of Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. Therapists will assess your loved one, helping to identify changes in personality or behavior. They can help by providing engaging tasks, making home modifications to reduce wandering and helping regular caregivers learn new techniques.
- Help adapting to vision loss. Glaucoma and other degenerative eye disorders can be adapted to with the help of an occupational therapist. Visual therapy practices include color coding commonly touched objects and adding reflective strips around stairs to prevent falls.
Want to learn more about the job occupational therapists do? Read this article from Consumer Affairs.
When is Occupational Therapy Most Needed?
Occupational therapy can be useful for people of all ages – but when do seniors need it?
- When health changes happen quickly. Health issues can take many forms – from an injurious fall that affects mobility to progressive hearing loss. But when changes happen fast, it can leave you without the strategies to adapt your lifestyle to your abilities. An occupational therapist is useful to help you bridge that gap.
- When you want help staying independent. Whether you’re living at home or in a senior living community, occupational therapy can help you find ways to live more independently. They have the know how to help you overcome health-related restrictions on your freedom.
Find Quality Care at Fair Oaks
When you choose Fair Oaks Rehabilitation & Health Care, you won’t just get access to our on-site occupational therapist. You’ll be provided with an entire care ecosystem designed around your unique needs and preferences. Where each day is uplifted by convenient services, ample amenities and nutritious, healthful dining.
Reach out to us if you have any questions about our care. We’re here for you.