Many seniors care about maintaining their independence. However, after they develop a serious illness, memory loss, or an injury, their self-reliance is put in jeopardy. Occupational therapy is a specific form of treatment to help these individuals relearn physical and cognitive skills, so they continue to live as freely as possible. Below are some benefits seniors receive from this form of rehabilitation.

The Benefits of Occupational Therapy for Seniors

Helps to Overcome the Challenges of Daily Life

After an illness or injury, performing basic tasks—such as grooming, dressing, and eating—is difficult for seniors to do alone. To overcome this and help them get back to their normal, daily life, an occupational therapist will work with the individual to resolve or manage chronic pain, arthritis, and other issues that might prevent them from doing these activities themselves.

Teaches How to Stay Mentally & Physically Fit

One of the key areas of occupational therapy is educating seniors on how to change certain aspects of their life to become both mentally and physically healthier. The therapist will work with the individual to help them remain active in a safe manner that will not lead to falls—the leading cause of senior injuries. They will also provide tips to improve overall wellness and maintain independence.

Makes Environmental Improvements

An occupational therapist will evaluate the senior’s living environment and determine how to improve it to make daily tasks easier. This could include installing grab bars in the bathroom to prevent slips or replacing the cutlery with soft, built-up utensils to reduce stress on finger joints.  

If your elderly loved one has recently had an injury that has limited their mobility or is showing other signs of struggling in their home, contact Atmore Nursing Center in Escambia County, AL, about their occupational therapy program. This rehabilitation department is available to short-term patients and full-time residents and helps with everything from orthopedic injuries to strokes. To learn more about this treatment option, visit their website or speak to one of their caregivers by calling (251) 368-9121.