What do occupational therapists do?

They help the patient change some part of their life by developing skills, improving physical and emotional abilities, adapting the environment or changing the way they do activities so the patient can better cope with aging, disease, injury or illness. More specifically, they:

• Teach patients how to use medical or adaptive equipment to overcome barriers and make life easier (for example: ergonomic office tools, power wheelchairs, kitchen utensils)
• Develop a patient’s skills to cope with anxiety, stress, decreased energy or the normal aging process
• Develop a patient’s skills to handle problems with memory, attention, organization or perception
• Problem solve with a patient to discover and teach new ways to perform household chores, hobbies or work activities

Where do occupational therapists work?

Occupational therapists work throughout ALA. Many have specialized skills and work in a specific department (e.g. operating room or oncology).

• Hospitals or health care centres
• Long-term care facilities
• Health clinics
• Schools
• Communities

What are the credentials for an OT?

• Occupational therapists have a bachelor or master’s degree in occupational therapy
• They have passed the Canadian Association of Occupational Therapists (CAOT) certification exam
• They are registered with the Alberta College of Occupational Therapists (ACOT)