Occupational therapy is an allied health profession that bases its practice on the link between human activity and health. It aims to maintain, acquire or restore autonomy in occupations (i.e. activities that are important to the person).
Its practice is based on sound theoretical models and scientific recommendations. The occupational therapist intervenes in a global approach based on three elements: the individual (or group of individuals), his environment and his activities.
The occupational therapist evaluates these different spheres and their relationship: the individual’s abilities (sensory, motor, cognitive, …), the importance of activities in his daily life, his lifestyle habits, his motivation, his environment (material, human, …) and the impact it has on his participation or restrictions in his activities.
The occupational therapy diagnosis makes it possible to define the elements that facilitate or limit the maintenance of the individual’s autonomy and to propose an adapted intervention. It can be in prevention, re-education and/or rehabilitation. It varies and adapts to each situation.
During his stay, the professional will evaluate the individuals, their activities and will therefore visit their accommodations (whether traditional or more modern). Thanks to the information collected and evaluations made, a synthesis will be made. This one will allow to define the advices and to make proposals for the development of the living spaces specific to each situation.
For example, the occupational therapist will be able to design environments (secure, accessible, adapted, evolutionary), recommend technical aids, technological assistance, human assistance, animal assistance, and material arrangements and modifications in order to encourage the person’s participation in his or her living environment.
Training may also be offered to caregivers afterwards, either in the form of pedagogical documents, or by videoconference, or if time permits during the stay.
All this helps to maintain the person’s autonomy for as long as possible in their usual environment, in a safe and efficient manner.