What is occupational therapy?

'Occupational Therapy' is a term that can be mis-understood, for example it does not mean 'careers guidance'. Instead “occupation” refers to those daily activities that we all carry out, the tasks that enable us to meet our human needs; to look after ourselves and our families, to participate in society, to achieve health and well being and satisfaction with life.

These activities or occupations will vary from person to person, depending on lifestyle, cultural values, and personal preferences. They can range from getting out of the bath to opening a door; from dressing your child to sending an email.

So what is occupational therapy?

Occupational therapy is concerned with how people view their occupations or activities, and the impact of illness or disability on their ability to carry them out.

The main aim of occupational therapy is to create a balance, that is acceptable and beneficial to the individual, between:

• the abilities of the person
• the demands of her/his occupations and
• the demands of the environment.
  

Occupational therapy should be a partnership between the client and the therapist, in order to increase the client’s responsibility, choice, autonomy and control over her/his life. The desired activity or occupation may need to be modified, special equipment may be required, and/or it may be necessary to make changes to the client’s environment (surroundings) so that the client can carry out the activity.

The desired outcome of occupational therapy is that the client achieves a satisfying performance and balance of occupations, in the areas of self care, productivity and leisure.

Occupational therapy and muscular dystrophy

Occupational therapists work with clients to enable them to be as independent as possible. Although independence with all activities is not always achievable for everybody with a muscular dystrophy, therapists will work with clients to give them as much control over their lives, and as much choice, as possible, so that given the limitations of their disability, the client feels that they have a good quality of life.

Find out more about where occupational therapists work, and how to find one