Occupational Therapy

The Occupational Therapist will work with the resident to improve his/her independence and safety in performing all of the Activities of Daily Living (or ADL’s). This includes the most effective, safe, and energy-efficient way for bathing, dressing, grooming, feeding oneself, and performing simple homemaking tasks such as food preparation, if needed, for each individual.

Adaptive equipment will be provided, if needed, and the resident will be taught the best way to use this equipment to improve independence. The therapist will help to increase the strength in arms, hands, and trunk, as needed. Also, gradual assistance will be given to improve endurance for all ADL’s.

Family, friends, and caretakers are invited to be present during therapy sessions and will be asked to provide clothing and suitable shoes for daily dressing (four complete outfits – including underclothes, bedclothes, robe, and slippers should be adequate). The occupational therapist will establish treatment goals and review them with the resident and family members at the weekly Interdisciplinary Team meeting.

When the resident is ready for discharge home, the therapist will make a referral to the home health agency or outpatient facility for continued therapy, if needed.