This Occupational Therapy Week, we are celebrating the important role occupational therapists play in supporting people of all ages and ability to live independently, stay connected to their communities and take part in the activities that matter most to them.
Occupational therapists work across a wide range of health and social care services, supporting children, adults and older people with both their physical and mental wellbeing. Their work enables people overcome challenges caused by illness, disability, injury, long-term conditions or frailty, enabling them to live as independently as possible.
Occupational therapy focuses on enabling people do the everyday activities that are important to them. This could include helping a person manage a long-term condition, recommending equipment or adaptations, or working with children and families to improve participation in daily life.
Their work directly supports our ambitions around maximising independence, supporting people with long-term conditions and helping people experiencing frailty to live well.
Occupational therapists also play a key role in preventing falls and reducing harm through assessment, rehabilitation and ongoing support. Their expertise is an important part of NHS Lothian’s Community Falls Prevention and Management Pathway and the recently launched Connect Edinburgh team, enabling people to remain safe, confident and independent in their own homes and communities.
Occupational therapists work closely with colleagues across health and social care to find solutions that empower people achieve their goals and maintain their quality of life.
As we celebrate Occupational Therapy Week, we would like to thank occupational therapists across Edinburgh for their dedication, expertise and commitment to improving outcomes for the people and communities they support.