After developing a serious illness or sustaining an injury, many seniors need occupational therapy to get their lives back on track and perform their daily duties. Oakville, ON, live-in care experts explain 5 ways this type of therapy helps.
1. Assists Seniors with Dementia
If your loved one has dementia, an occupational therapist can assess his or her cognitive status and suggest interventions that can address behavioral and personality changes and enhance quality of life. In the early stages of dementia, the therapist may recommend modifications to the home environment for increased safety, help your loved one maximize his or her remaining skills for as much independence as possible, and educate family members regarding social and emotional support resources. As the dementia progresses, an occupational therapist can recommend ways to simplify activities of daily living and provide sensory and social stimulation. Oakville dementia caregivers can play a similar role in boosting your loved one’s mental wellbeing.
2. Encourages Socialization
Fear of falling, a lack of endurance, and other age-related physical deficits can make it difficult for seniors to get out of the house and engage in social activities. This increased isolation can lead to depression and even further physical and cognitive decline. An occupational therapist can show your loved one how to compensate for these deficits so he or she can once again enjoy an active and fulfilling life.
3. Helps Manage Chronic Conditions
Many seniors develop conditions like Parkinson’s disease or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, which can limit their ability to perform activities of daily living. An occupational therapist can recommend new ways of carrying out these activities while conserving energy, reducing fatigue, and increasing safety. Being able to perform activities like bathing and dressing independently can provide your loved one with an increased sense of independence and self-esteem.
4. Prevents Falls
Falls are one of the leading causes of nursing home admissions and death in the elderly. An occupational therapist can be brought in to assess your loved one’s home for safety. The therapist can also suggest modifications and adaptive equipment that may make it easier for your loved one to navigate around the house and reduce the risk of falls.
5. Promotes Independence
Occupational therapy can be a valuable tool in helping seniors age in place. Therapists use a combination of exercise, education, and rehabilitative techniques to help seniors refine or relearn fine motor skills, strength, and dexterity. The results may make it possible for your loved one to perform household tasks so he or she can remain independent for longer.
To learn more about the benefits of occupational therapy and the similar benefits offered by professional caregivers, reach out to Home Care Assistance. Our dedicated caregivers can assist with mobility, provide social and mental stimulation, and help with daily tasks like cooking, cleaning, and bathing. For more information on the home care Oakville families trust, call one of our experienced Care Managers at (905) 337-1200 today.