What Is Occupational Therapy?

History Of Occupational Therapy

Occupational therapy dates back to the late 1800s. At that time, arts and crafts were used as a way of engaging patients in hospitals. In the early 1900s, occupational therapy was typically used in mental health facilities, and it included routine activities such as cleaning, crafts, and farming. Eleanor Clark Slagle organized the world's first training program for occupational therapists, and she is regarded today as the 'mother of occupational therapy.' The American Occupational Therapy Association was formed in 1917, and occupational therapists helped provide care and rehabilitation for soldiers injured in World War I. Occupational therapists were originally known as reconstruction aides, and their work was concerned with rehabilitating the mind and the body so patients could perform tasks that were meaningful for them. Occupational therapists helped patients with cooking, dressing, hygiene, and activity modifications as needed. Today, they continue to provide personalized care for every patient, giving them tools and techniques to carry out activities at home and work.

Get familiar with the regulations occupational therapists must adhere to next.