As Occupational Therapists our interventions sit within the context of the client’s life. This means that you should not have to ‘make time’ for therapy. Everybody’s challenges and goals are different so the benefits to the individual will vary.
Being able to write, draw and complete other fine motor tasks.
Being as independent as possible.
Being able to confidently explore and try new things him/herself.
Developing basic skills of looking after themselves and things.
Increasing independence and reducing reliance on others in daily activities, like toileting and eating.
Having a greater variety in diet.
Having a greater sense of well-being and sense of self.
Benefits for the Teenager or Young Adult
Benefits for teenagers and young adults may include…
Becoming more independent from his/her parent/carers.
Being able to engage and learn in the classroom.
Being able to engage with and participate in his/her community.
Transition from school to the workforce.
Independent living skills.
Self-organisation and responsibility.
Skills in cooking and cleaning.
Catching public transportation/navigating the community safely.
Appropriate social behaviours and expectations.
Benefits for the Adult
Benefits for the adult may include…
Being provided with the skills and aids required to manage illness, injury and chronic conditions.
Receiving a professional consultative service to maximise safety and the ability to remain living at home.
Having education for yourself, caregivers and service providers.
Maximising your ‘Quality of Life’.
Benefits for caregivers
Benefits for caregivers may include…
Understanding how the client processes information so that you feel confident around supporting them with their challenges.
Feeling confident that you are able to provide instructions that the client can follow.
Feeling confident that the client understands how to keep themselves safe when they are not with you.
Having tools to be able to encourage the client to eat a variety of foods and maintain a healthy diet.
Feeling confident that the client can manage their own toileting needs.
Getting a good night’s sleep because the client can sleep in their own room.
A better understanding of the client and their need for advocacy throughout life to people such as teachers/employers in order for them to participate at the best of their ability.
Feeling confident that the client is receiving the support they need to remain safe and be as independent as possible.
Assurance that the client’s living environment is set up to be as safe as possible.
Feeling supported in addressing the client’s care needs.
Positive behaviours and relationships between a client and their siblings.
Strategies for handling stressful daily routines like getting ready for school or going shopping.
Greater sense of understanding reasoning behind the client’s behaviours/challenges.
Reduced stress/anxiety in attending community events and social functions.
