An OT will first do an assessment to find your current level of function. As part
of
this, the OT will review your health history. They will watch you do certain tasks
to
see how well you are functioning. They will also talk with you about the tasks that
are
hard for you to do. They may also talk with other people involved in your care, such
as
a family member, caregiver, or other healthcare providers.
The OT will then work with you to create a treatment plan with short-term and long-term
goals. They can show you helpful exercises, assess your home environment for safety,
and
teach you new ways of doing things. They can also help you to get certain tools or
products (called assistive devices) as needed, that can help you to do things more
easily. And they can show you how to use these devices safely and correctly.
For instance, based on your needs, an OT may do things such as:
- Show you an easier way to do tasks such as getting dressed
- Show you how to safely get in and out of the shower
- Teach you exercises to help improve your strength, flexibility, or hand-eye
coordination
- Do an assessment to make sure your home is safe and well-lit
- Help to prevent falls by securing or removing throw rugs and getting rid of clutter
- Help you to get certain devices and teach you how to use them, such as a raised
toilet seat, bath chair, cane, reacher, or pill organizer