Occupational Therapy: Definition & Function

How Does Occupational Therapy Work?

Occupational therapy is a treatment method designed to help people perform the activities they want to do in their daily lives. This therapy aims to improve quality of life and maintain independence.

Occupational therapists use various methods to help individuals carry out the activities they wish to perform in daily life. These methods include exercises, therapeutic activities, specialized training, and the use of various tools.

Occupational therapists employ these techniques to support people in achieving their daily life goals, ensuring both functionality and independence.

When Is Occupational Therapy Used?

Occupational therapy can be used in various situations, including:

  • Hand and arm injuries
  • Stroke
  • Rheumatoid arthritis
  • Parkinson’s disease
  • Spinal cord injuries
  • Autism
  • Down syndrome
  • Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
  • Alzheimer’s disease

Occupational therapy can help people experiencing issues related to any of these conditions. This therapy supports individuals in performing the activities they want to do in daily life and improves their quality of life.

Occupational Therapy Education

Occupational therapy is offered in many countries as undergraduate and graduate programs at universities. These programs provide theoretical and practical knowledge for students who want to specialize in the field of occupational therapy.

Occupational therapy education covers subjects such as human anatomy, physiology, psychology, diseases, and treatment methods. Additionally, students have the opportunity to apply occupational therapy techniques in practical classes.

Exercises

Exercises are one of the most commonly used methods by occupational therapists. These exercises help individuals strengthen their muscles and improve their mobility. Additionally, exercises can enhance balance and coordination skills.

Exercises are designed to help people perform the activities they want to do in their daily lives. For example, if a person has difficulty lifting a glass, occupational therapists may recommend exercises to strengthen the muscles of the hand and arm.

Therapeutic Activities

Therapeutic activities are designed to help people perform the activities they want to do in their daily lives. These activities aim to improve individuals’ mental and physical skills.

For example, if a person has difficulty holding a pen, occupational therapists may recommend therapeutic activities to strengthen the muscles of the hand and fingers. These activities help individuals improve their hand skills and make it easier to perform the activities they want to do in daily life.

Specialized Training

Specialized training is designed to help people perform the activities they want to do in their daily lives. These trainings aim to improve individuals’ mental and physical skills.

For example, if a person has difficulty lifting a glass, occupational therapists may recommend specialized training to strengthen the muscles of the hand and arm. This training helps individuals improve their hand skills and perform the activities they want to do in daily life more easily.

Tools

Occupational therapists use various tools to help people perform the activities they want to do in their daily lives. These tools aim to increase mobility and make it easier to carry out daily activities.

For example, if a person has difficulty lifting a glass, occupational therapists may recommend exercises to strengthen the muscles of the hand and arm. Additionally, they may suggest a cup holder tool to help the person lift the glass more easily.

Prepared by A Life Medical Editorial Board.

Last Updated: 6 Kasım 2025 14:05

Publish Date: 24 Nisan 2024 17:46

Occupational Therapy: Definition & Function

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