Inpatient occupational therapy can be a lifesaver for people who have suffered a stroke or brain injury, undergone orthopedic surgery or amputation, have a neurological condition, or are managing another disabling condition. Occupational therapy (OT) is just one type of therapy that patients receive in inpatient rehabilitation hospitals. OT complements physical therapy and speech-language pathology to help people regain functionality and return to the lives they love.
What is occupational therapy?
Occupational therapy helps people improve a wide range of abilities to engage in everyday activities that are important to their lives, such as bathing, dressing, grooming, going to work, cooking, paying bills, or engaging in hobbies. It helps people take care of themselves independently or take care of their families. Occupational therapists work closely with the rest of the care team—physical therapists, speech-language pathologists, doctors, and nurses—to create a rehabilitation plan of care that meets each individual’s unique goals.
Who needs inpatient rehab occupational therapy?
Many different conditions benefit from occupational therapy, and each person’s interdisciplinary care team will determine the specific type of therapy that is most appropriate for the individual. In general, people who will benefit from occupational therapy services in an inpatient setting include people who have experienced the following:
What are the benefits of inpatient occupational therapy?
Inpatient rehabilitation occupational therapy can help people regain skills or adapt their skills to fit their current abilities, sometimes with the help of adaptive equipment. This helps them prepare for life once they return home.
Living independently – Everyday activities, such as dressing, grooming, eating, and going to the bathroom, can be difficult after surgery or injury. Inpatient OT helps people regain these skills. OTs can help improve range of motion, strength, dexterity, mobility, and basic motor skills. Our hospital offers a special rehabilitation area called an “ADL” suite that helps people prepare for their transition home. In this area, they can practice common at-home tasks, such as cooking or using a computer.
Reducing falls — Sometimes, it’s necessary to learn how to use adaptive equipment, such as a cane, to prevent falls. OTs can help people improve their balance and get the hang of using their new equipment. Sometimes, they provide specific exercises to improve balance, and they educate people on modifying their environment to remove tripping hazards and make navigation easier.
Addressing impaired vision — Certain injuries and conditions can affect perceptual vision, pattern detection, and vision awareness. Occupational therapists (OTs) can educate individuals on adapting to these changes. These adaptations may include color-coding items or using adaptive tools, such as magnifiers.
Adapting to cognitive challenges — Learning how to live with impaired memory, executive function, or concentration can be daunting. OTs can help people adapt to cognitive challenges by teaching techniques that help people adapt.
Home modifications— Sometimes, modifications to one’s home are necessary. OTs evaluate people’s home environments and suggest changes to make life easier. From grab bars and slip-resistant flooring to power lift recliners and shower benches, these modifications can help people maintain their independence for as long as possible.
If you need inpatient rehab OT or other intensive medical rehabilitative services, consider Milwaukee Rehabilitation Hospital. Our team of occupational therapists, along with the rest of the medical rehabilitation team, will create an individualized plan of care to help you reach your goals. Learn more about medical rehab on our website.
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