Occupational therapy for older adults

Occupational therapy is a health profession, and the occupational therapist is a healthcare professional who encourages a person to engage in the everyday activities meaningful to them. We focus on improving or maintaining health in the area of body functions and structures and mental health.

Our shared goals are carrying out activities that promote health and wellbeing and performing prioritised activities as successfully as possible. The therapist is also here to guide you through the components for basic daily activities such as independent washing, dressing and eating.

We also look at participation in broader daily activities, assessment of environmental risk factors, fall prevention and advice on adapting the home for greater safety. With the person we discuss orthotic and medical-technical aids, and with relatives the assistive technology that supports independence.

Occupational therapy is for someone who:

  • Is recovering from musculoskeletal injuries or surgery (e.g. hip fracture, shoulder or upper-limb surgery) and wants to restore or maintain muscle function.
  • Is facing central nervous system injuries (e.g. stroke, cerebral palsy, spinal cord or brain injuries).
  • Faces movement challenges due to age-related changes (e.g. reduced strength, mobility or balance).
  • Lives with chronic illnesses (e.g. Parkinson’s, multiple sclerosis, Huntington’s disease).
  • Is facing cognitive changes (e.g. various dementias, mild cognitive impairment), where the goal is to maintain daily independence.
  • Has difficulties with everyday activities (e.g. dressing, personal hygiene, cooking and shopping).
  • Needs home environment adaptations (e.g. aids, safe room layouts to prevent falls, bathroom adaptations).
  • Wants to use medical-technical aids but is looking for ideas on how to use them.
  • Lives at home and wants to maintain independence and quality of life.
  • Faces social and psychological challenges (loneliness, loss of motivation or depression), where occupational therapy offers meaningful activities and support.

Approaches

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Bobath concept

A rehabilitation approach for neurological conditions based on quality of movement and activity. The emphasis is on the person transferring learning into everyday daily activities and occupations.

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Neuromuscular taping

A technique influencing the musculoskeletal, vascular, lymphatic and neurological system, using (de)compressive stimuli with an adhesive elastic tape to support the body’s natural healing.

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Occupational therapy with Montessori elements

When working with people with dementia, a holistic understanding of the individual is essential — one that goes beyond diagnosis and includes their abilities, interests and life experience. The Montessori approach for dementia and ageing is based on self-respect, choice and active contribution to the community.

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Expressive arts therapies

Art therapy guides the person through a process of expression and creation. Through music, drama or visual art therapy comes self-expression, physical and mental wellbeing and personal growth. Our goal is the process of experiencing, not the final product.