Whether you know what an occupational therapist is and just have never heard of telehealth or you need a crash course in both Occupational Therapy (OT) and telehealth you are in the right place. Occupational therapists specialize in modifying, adapting, strengthening, and educating individuals in order to improved ability to function in their own environment. The American Occupational Therapy Association defines occupational therapy as:
So what does this mean for you?
Well it means that they can help you age in place, prevent falls, reduce pain, and even make your daily routine easier. An occupational therapist’s goal is to keep you performing the occupations that mean the most to you for as long as possible. Sometimes your every day routine becomes too challenging to complete that you may stop doing part of it. OT’s attempt to understand what the issue is and create a plan for how to fix or modify the issue.
How can an occupational therapist help me online?
Telehealth is a medical service provided through an online or technology based service to allow therapists to work with individuals in remote locations such as their homes. Anyone with an internet connection and a device that has a two way camera such as computer, laptop, tablet, or phone can use telehealth. If you or your loved one has been in need of therapy but unable to get to a clinic, teletherapy may be the option for you.
How do I know if I need an occupational therapist?
Occupational therapists can assist with all aspects of occupations such as self cares, rest and sleep, work, hobbies, and even social participation. If any of these areas have become more challenging then it may be time to seek an occupational therapist.
Here’s just a few things than an occupational therapist can do:
Home modifications
Loved one having more falls or you’re just looking to prevent falls? Occupational therapists offer numerous devices or tips for ways to prevent falls as well as offer regular strengthening programs to build strength and reduce the risk for a fall altogether. Cooking a favorite past time but causes too much pain? An OT is knowledgeable of many types of devices and strategies to make daily tasks easier.
Daily routine
Having increased difficulty pulling your pants on in the morning or standing long enough to brush your teeth? An OT can identify problems and offer suggestions for a strengthening program or modifications to make the tasks simpler. Maybe it’s your loved one who is needing more help during their dressing routine but you can’t figure out why? With telehealth an OT can observe a daily routine including dressing, brushing hair, or whatever it is that has becomes more difficult or impossible to complete and offer strategies and devices to simplify like for you or your loved one.
Caregiver training
Loved one suffering from a new injury or disability? In need of proper training on how to assist them or feel like you’re using too much effort to complete your new role as caregiver? Learn tips and techniques specifically tailored to you and your loved one to ensure both safety and ease with things like transferring and assisting your loved one.
Occupational therapists work with a variety of disabilities and injuries to accomplish safety and ease of tasks. Don’t let disability or pain stop you from participating in your or limiting your independence. Maybe there is a new activity you’ve been wanting to try but afraid you wont be able to accomplish it? Let an OT help! As experts in modifications and breaking down tasks to identify underlying limitations OT’s are perfect to consult for just about anything.
To schedule an OT consultation email or call us today!
hcstraightup@gmail.com or by phone at 727-275-0493.
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