Occupational therapy can help the older adult who is experiencing difficulty with a variety of functional problems relating to aging. Dressing, bathing, shopping for food or personal items, and carrying out daily activities safely can be particularly challenging. Occupational therapy can also aid the older adult with more serious problems resulting from heart disease, cancer, arthritis, stroke, or Parkinson’s disease.

Treatment goals include promoting independence, preventing further disability, and maintaining wellness. Therapeutic activities assist individuals in adapting to or overcoming limitations imposed by illness or injury. Treatment is often based upon actual performance of essential living tasks. The occupational therapist may also provide adaptive equipment to promote function and recommend changes in the living environment to eliminate architectural barriers.  Occupational therapists and occupational therapy assistants work with older adults and their caregivers.

Through Occupational Therapy, Older Adults Learn to:

• Adapt to changes brought about by aging, such as decreased energy and vision
• Safely perform routine activities such as dressing and cooking
• Increase physical strength and endurance to maintain self-sufficiency
• Identify community resources such as senior centers and stroke clubs
• Cope with the losses of aging such as the death of a spouse or friend
• Adapt the home for safety and efficiency
• Recognize and counteract depression

Through Occupational Therapy Caregivers Learn:

• Techniques to reduce the physical and emotional stress related to care giving
• Ways to identify and reinforce the older adult’s abilities for independent living
• Transfer and position techniques that improve safety and reduce caregiver effort
• Meaningful activities the homebound older person can perform
• Which adaptive devices and aids can facilitate caretaking tasks
• How to identify and use community resources such as respite care and “Meals on Wheels”
• How to adapt the home environment for safety and mobility

What is Occupational Therapy for Older Adults?

When an individual is referred for treatment, the occupational therapist assesses the person’s ability to carry out necessary developmental, physical, social, and emotional functions in relation to his or her prognosis. The assessment and an analysis of the individual’s personal goals and the demands of his or her environment are reviewed and become the basis of an individualized treatment program. During the course of treatment, which may include the services of occupational therapists and occupational therapy assistants, the patient’s status is frequently reviewed. Changes in the treatment program are shared with the other members of the health care team, including the physician, patient, and family.  Occupational therapy can help to ensure a fuller, more productive, and independent life style for older adults.

Who Provides Occupational Therapy Services?

Services are available only from registered occupational therapists (OTR) and certified occupational therapy assistants (COTA). Each of these skilled practitioners is a graduate of an accredited education program, has completed a period of supervised clinical experience, and has passed a national certification exam.

Where are Occupational Therapy Services Provided?

Occupational therapy is available in many settings including acute care hospitals, rehabilitation facilities, psychiatric hospitals, home health agencies, and nursing homes. Services can also be found in senior centers, adult day care facilities and retirement communities, through employee assistance programs, and from therapists who are in private practice. Payment for occupational therapy services is available through Medicare and Medicaid, as well as private insurance plans.