Occupational Therapy
Occupational therapy deals with some of the most practical aspects of life with arthritis; generally, occupational therapists teach people strategies for continuing to live active, independent lives when dealing with the physical limitations and psychosocial issues arising from arthritis.
The goal of occupational therapy is to provide strategies for dealing with any part of your life that your arthritis has made more difficult. These areas often include housekeeping, personal care, and workplace issues.
Your first visit with an occupational therapist will generally be an assessment meeting. The occupational therapy assessment typically involves an interview about your daily activities, and depending on the nature of the difficulties, a more detailed analysis of your ability to perform those activities as well as environmental barriers or supports available (at home or work). Occupational therapists often have great advice about issues ranging from self-care and personal hygiene to workplace adaptations and recreation.
Occupational therapy is all about problem-solving: in addition to the many adaptive devices available on the market, many simple "do-it-yourself" strategies exist. As well, occupational therapy may help you learn how to set up your daily routine, so that you engage in the most difficult or tiring activities at times in your day when you have the most energy.
For more information, general resources are available at www.otworks.ca.
Occupational therapy deals with some of the most practical aspects of life with arthritis; generally, occupational therapists teach people strategies for continuing to live active, independent lives when dealing with the physical limitations and psychosocial issues arising from arthritis.
The goal of occupational therapy is to provide strategies for dealing with any part of your life that your arthritis has made more difficult. These areas often include housekeeping, personal care, and workplace issues.
Your first visit with an occupational therapist will generally be an assessment meeting. The occupational therapy assessment typically involves an interview about your daily activities, and depending on the nature of the difficulties, a more detailed analysis of your ability to perform those activities as well as environmental barriers or supports available (at home or work). Occupational therapists often have great advice about issues ranging from self-care and personal hygiene to workplace adaptations and recreation.
Occupational therapy is all about problem-solving: in addition to the many adaptive devices available on the market, many simple "do-it-yourself" strategies exist. As well, occupational therapy may help you learn how to set up your daily routine, so that you engage in the most difficult or tiring activities at times in your day when you have the most energy.
For more information, general resources are available at www.otworks.ca.
Arthritis Consumer Experts
ACE thanks Arthritis Research Canada (ARC) for its scientific review of ACE and JointHealth™ information and education programs.