Occupational Therapists

On a typical day an occupational therapist will: assist clients in performing activities of all types;

• use physical exercises to help patients increase strength and dexterity;
• use activities to help patients improve visual acuity
• use computer programs to help clients improve decision-making, abstract-reasoning, problem-solving, memory, sequencing, coordination, and perception
• design or make special equipment needed at home or at work;

Occupational therapists help patients improve their ability to perform tasks in living and working environments. They work with individuals who suffer from a mentally, physically, developmentally, or emotionally disabling condition. Occupational therapists use treatments to develop, recover, or maintain the daily living and work skills of their patients. The goal is to help clients have independent, productive, and satisfying lives.

Occupational therapists help clients to perform all types of activities, from using a computer to caring for daily needs such as dressing, cooking, and eating. Physical exercises may be used to increase strength and dexterity, while other activities may be chosen to improve visual acuity or the ability to discern patterns.

Patients with permanent disabilities, such as spinal cord injuries, cerebral palsy, or muscular dystrophy, often need special instruction to master certain daily tasks. For these individuals, therapists demonstrate the use of adaptive equipment, including wheelchairs, orthoses, eating aids, and dressing aids. They teach clients how to use the equipment to improve communication and control various situations in their environment.

Occupational therapists may work exclusively with individuals in a particular age group or with a particular disability. In schools, for example, they evaluate children's capabilities, recommend and provide therapy, modify classroom equipment, and help children participate in school activities. A therapist may work with children individually, lead small groups in the classroom, consult with a teacher, or serve on an administrative committee.

Career Notable

• A master's degree or higher in occupational therapy is the typical minimum requirement for entry into the field.
• Employment is expected to grow much faster than average. Job opportunities should be good, especially for occupational therapists treating the elderly.
• Median annual wages of occupational therapists were $66,780 in May 2008.

For a complete profile visit our source at http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos078.htm