What is Occupational Therapy

by Joyce Sharpe

Occupation is everything people do each day, including looking after themselves (self-care), enjoying life (leisure) and contributing to the social and economic fabric of their communities (work/productivity). Occupational Therapists (OT) work to break down barriers which impede individuals in their everyday living. OT's are registered with the College of Occupational Therapy of Ontario (COTO).

More specifically, in the neurosciences , OT's work to:

1. Facilitate independence in self care, productivity and leisure - through practice of altered or adaptive techniques, use of adaptive equipment or simply practice of these activities in progressively more challenging environments.
2. Maintain Range of Motion - using splints, positioning devices or education.
3. Skin Protection - providing splint, cushions and posies, recommending mattresses and maintaining ROHO mattresses.
4. Provide stimulation to individuals with impaired awareness of the environment - using sensory stimulation techniques and providing education to caregivers and family.
   • Referral is preferable as early as possible. As soon as restriction from normal daily functioning is recognized, a referral is needed.
   • Referral on the day of discharge is very difficult to address because discharge often includes the following:
   • Thorough investigation into the discharge environment including supports, set-up and existing equipment
   • Consultation with the rest of the health care team.
   • Education and practice of necessary skills to patients and/or caregivers.
   • Equipment trial and prescription as well as investigation into the method of acquiring the necessary equipment.
   • Investigation and referral to necessary follow-up services (which often is accomplished through the Community Care Access Centre (see CCAC)).
5. This is a time consuming process and usually cannot be accomplished within one day. The team is often able to do considerable planning prior to the day of discharge.

Physician's orders are required for Occupational Therapy intervention.

Referrals are frequently made to CCAC through consultation with CCAC Case Manager on the ward and through written referral. Community vendors and loan agencies are often used to access necessary equipment. Occupational Therapists at other sites, at other hospitals, clinics and community agencies are often accessed for follow-up after discharge from this site.  Insurance companies, their representative and designates are also commonly used to access resources required for safe discharge.