Occupational therapists (OTs) help individuals struggling with illness, injury, and physical or mental disability regain their standards of living to enjoy fuller and happier lives – and to return to work.
Getting back to work in a safe and timely way is paramount for anyone who has had to stop working due to illness or injury. It also benefits employers to have a well planned and implemented return to work program. For some people, the primary need might be a workstation assessment and prescription of an appropriate chair. For others, returning to shift work in factory or hospital environment feels like they are finally getting back to their old self.
Here’s how occupational therapists help individuals return to work.
Return to Work with Occupational Therapy
The occupational therapist will perform a comprehensive needs assessment, taking into consideration the individual’s physical abilities, mental health and emotional state. What are their goals? What is their motivation level? How do they function on a daily basis at work and at home?
Occupational therapists also take into account family members. If someone has young children, then the OT might need to factor in child care arrangements when working out a return to work plan.
Rehabilitation Plans
The occupational therapist will then develop a program tailored specifically for the individual, which might include:
- prescription of assistive devices or equipment
- adapting work tasks or work schedule
- providing reasonable accommodations in the workplace
- training and education on how to manage their condition
- referral to other health professionals as required
Successfully returning to work does not happen overnight, and it is important for both the employee and employer to be patient and understanding. With the help of an occupational therapist, most people can return to their previous job or another job that is suitable for them.
Is Occupational Therapy Helpful?
An occupational therapist can help you regain, relearn or maintain the ability to perform every-day functions, such as living, leisure activities, and returning to work. Occupational therapy provides the necessary assessments and evaluations to allow for rehabilitation work to take place.
Each appointment you have with your OT will be completely tailored to your needs. Each individual has unique needs and requirements that must be taken into consideration by your chose occupational therapist, although an in-depth assessment is always done first to establish your needs, any potential barriers or obstacles, and ways of improving your life.
When Do You Need to See an Occupational Therapist?
You may need an occupational therapist (OT) if you:
- Have a physical, neurological or mental condition that inhibits daily activities
- Experience developmental delays, learning problems or sensory disorders
- Struggle with mental health conditions, like anxiety
- Have autism or other intellectual disabilities
- Are recovering from an injury or illness
Coastal Rehab Can Help You Return to Work
Coastal Rehab practices occupational therapy with a patient-centric philosophy aimed at reducing the barriers to success. They care about their clients and genuinely strive to help them achieve health, happiness, and fulfilment, and want to see every client attain a happy and independent life.
Coastal Rehab has provided professional OT rehabilitation and assessment services to the Sunshine Coast community for more than two decades. When working with them, you are guaranteed to receive the utmost respect, understanding, and expert opinion on your case.
