![](https://www.grmedcenter.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/iStock-992299900.jpg)
Keep on moving with occupational therapy
2 minutes
Do you struggle to do simple daily tasks that once seemed easy, like turning a doorknob or staying steady when you try to shower? If so, occupational therapy can help. Despite its name, occupational therapy doesn’t have anything to do with having a job. Instead, it makes it easier for you to perform everyday activities, such as bathing, dressing, preparing meals, enjoying hobbies, driving and shopping. When these activities become more difficult because of aging, illness, injury or disease, occupational therapists can help you stay active and live well with these limitations.
How it helps
Occupational therapists work with you in places like your home, a skilled nursing facility or a clinic. They evaluate how your condition is affecting your health and well-being and provide ways to overcome barriers.
Then they work with you (and perhaps your family, care provider or friend) to develop goals and a plan that will help you get back to your normal routine as much as possible. Those goals may include finding ways to help you stay safe and independent, improve your quality of life, enhance your physical capabilities, and support your leisure activities.
Occupational therapists use a variety of approaches to help you address any problems you may have as a result of things like surgery, arthritis, a fall or a stroke. They may teach you:
- Safe ways to move to ease pain and prevent further injury.
- Exercises to build your strength and endurance. For example, bicep curls and overhead arm reaches can reduce pain and the risk of injury when loading and unloading groceries or make it easier to brush your hair.
- How to use assistive devices such as canes, grabbers and wearable splints for joint support.
In short, an occupational therapy practitioner can help you live life to its fullest, no matter your health condition, disability or risk factors.
Sources: American Occupational Therapy Association; Arthritis Foundation