April is Occupational Therapy Month

Occupational therapy helps children and adults to live their lives to their fullest by helping them to overcome the challenges resulting from developmental disorders, disability, injury or illness. The term “occupation” refers to meaningful activities an individual must be able to perform to live his/her life and to function within the environment.  A client’s strengths and needs are identified through evaluation.  A customized treatment plan is then formulated  to help each individual reach his/her maximal potential to participate more fully in everyday life activities.

The occupational therapist may help individuals experiencing difficulties in physical, sensory, cognitive and perceptual functions.  Occupational therapy focuses on daily living skills related to self care, homemaking, community living, and work or school function.  In occupational therapy, a client may learn to improve coordinated and functional usage of their arms and hands or work on cognitive-perceptual skills which are necessary to perform many school, home, and work tasks.   Therapy to improve sensory functioning can help clients respond more effectively within their environments, develop stronger foundations for motor skills, and  learn coping strategies.  Occupational therapy services may include assessment of challenges experienced within the client’s home, workplace, or school, leading to recommendations for environmental modifications, adaptive equipment, or alterations in daily routines to enhance functioning within these settings. 

Please contact Easter Seals 330-743-1168 or email us at easterseals@mtc.easterseals.com to learn more about occupational therapy or to schedule an occupational therapy evaluation.