Definition
Occupational therapy focuses on enabling meaningful daily activity — self-care, work, play, community — through adaptation of the person, task, and environment.
Why it matters
Occupational therapy is under-known and under-referred. It is often the difference between having function and living a life.
The Science
Occupational therapy has evidence across neurological, developmental, mental health, and physical conditions. Its integrative, activity-focused approach is aligned with modern neuroscience.
The NSI Perspective
NSI treats occupational therapy as one of the most humane and evidence-informed forms of care available.
Clinical Implications
Refer earlier and more often than you likely do.
Practical Application
If daily living has become hard, an occupational therapist may help more than another specialist visit.
References
- 1.American Occupational Therapy Association. Occupational therapy practice framework: domain and process. 4th ed. Am J Occup Ther. 2020;74(Suppl 2):7412410010.