Contents
- Introduction
- What is Occupational Therapy?
- Occupational Therapy vs. Physiotherapy
- Who Do Occupational Therapists Help?
- What Does an Occupational Therapist Do?
- Conditions Occupational Therapists Work With
- Occupational Therapy at Home
- Choosing an Occupational Therapist
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Conclusion
What Does an Occupational Therapist Do? A Simple Guide
Wondering what an occupational therapist does? You’re not alone. Many people mix up occupational therapy with physiotherapy. While both are valuable, occupational therapists (OTs) focus on helping people live as independently as possible by supporting everyday activities.
What is Occupational Therapy?
Occupational therapy helps people carry out daily tasks that may be challenging due to:
- Illness or injury
- Ageing
- Physical or learning disabilities
- Mental health conditions
Rather than just treating the medical issue, OTs focus on how conditions affect daily life and find practical ways to make tasks easier.
Occupational Therapy vs. Physiotherapy
It’s easy to confuse the two:
- Physiotherapists improve movement, strength, and recovery from injuries. Learn more about physiotherapy.
- Occupational therapists help people adapt daily activities for greater independence.
For example, after a stroke, a physiotherapist might help someone walk again, while an OT helps them re-learn to dress or cook.
Who Do Occupational Therapists Help?
OTs work with people of all ages, including:
- Children with autism, developmental delays, or learning difficulties
- Adults recovering from illness, surgery, or chronic conditions
- Older adults needing support with memory, mobility, or home safety
What Does an Occupational Therapist Do?
OTs provide practical support, such as:
- Assessing what a person can and cannot do
- Creating tailored treatment plans
- Helping with daily tasks like eating, bathing, or dressing
- Recommending aids like grab rails or adapted cutlery
- Making homes safer and more accessible
- Supporting carers with practical strategies
Conditions Occupational Therapists Work With
OTs often support people with:
- Stroke or neurological conditions (e.g., Parkinson’s or multiple sclerosis)
- Arthritis and joint pain
- Dementia and memory issues
- Anxiety, depression, or mental health challenges
- Learning disabilities or developmental disorders
Occupational Therapy at Home
Home-based occupational therapy offers:
- Fewer hospital visits
- Customised solutions in your own environment
- Immediate, practical support
- Peace of mind for families and carers
Learn more about home occupational therapy.
Choosing an Occupational Therapist
When selecting an OT, look for:
- HCPC registration (required in the UK)
- Experience with your specific condition or age group
- A practical, home-based approach if that suits your needs
Frequently Asked Questions
- What’s the difference between an occupational therapist and a physiotherapist?
Physiotherapists focus on movement and strength, while OTs help with daily living and independence. - Can occupational therapy help with mental health?
Yes, OTs support mental health conditions by helping manage routines and develop coping strategies. - Can occupational therapy be done at home?
Yes, many OTs provide tailored support in your home.
Conclusion
Occupational therapists help people live more fully, no matter the challenges. From children building skills to older adults staying safe at home, OTs offer practical, life-changing support. If daily tasks are difficult, consider reaching out to discuss occupational therapy options.