Occupational Therapy and the role in TBI rehabilitation
October 27th marks World Occupational Therapy Day. Since its launch in 2010 by the World Federation of Occupational Therapists (WFOT), World Occupational Therapy Day has become an important date to recognise and celebrate the profession internationally.
Occupational therapy (OT) practitioners are rehabilitation professionals that can work independently or as part of a multi-disciplinary team to assess and treat individuals to make everyday living easier. OT practitioners liaise closely with individuals and their families to identify how a person’s injury affects their daily lives. They also assess their strengths and weaknesses to inform and guide the rehabilitation process. Through the setting of realistic and achievable goals, OTs assist individuals achieve their highest level of ability and independence so that they may integrate back into their community.
People who have suffered a TBI may need to seek the assistance of an OT practitioner. Because every TBI is unique, each individuals’ rehabilitation journey or requirement will vary.
Here are some common ways that OT practitioners can assist individuals with TBI and their families:
– Identifying and teaching memory strategies such as checklists, daily planners, and technological devices to compensate for changes in memory and thinking skills (cognitive abilities)
– Helping develop effective routines and schedules
– Recommending ways to adapt home and work environments to assist with changes in physical, perceptual, and cognitive abilities
– Providing training and assisting in adapting or developing compensatory techniques for activities of daily living, such as dressing, bathing and grooming, preparing meals, shopping, managing finances, and caring for children
– Designing fatigue management plans to ensure that the individual with TBI paces themselves to achieve their goals
– Assessing sleep hygiene
– Educating individuals and family members on behavioural changes and identifying techniques to help cope in challenging social situations
– Consulting with employers and/or education providers to adapt the work or study environment to support the individual’s abilities
– Facilitate the identification and development of appropriate and fulfilling hobbies or other leisure activities.
Disclaimer: This website does not offer medical advice for individuals. If you have suffered a TBI, seek medical attention.