If you are reaching your senior years, or dealing with an aging parent, grandparent, or relative, you may have been referred to an occupational therapist. Englewood NJ has many occupational therapists waiting for your call, so don’t hesitate to contact a skilled provider! Here are 5 ways that seniors benefit from occupational therapy.
1. Don’t let the dailies get you down! If you are frustrated with an inability to do basic, daily living tasks, or if you are spending a big amount of time dressing, feeding, or bathing someone who may be able to handle these tasks themselves, occupational therapy may be useful. Occupational therapists work with seniors to make these tasks easier, finding new ways to do old tasks and developing routines for success.
2. Build better memories. Occupational therapists are best known for their assistance with home modifications and physical skills, but did you know that they also address cognitive abilities? By engaging in memory-building activities such as puzzles or games, using visual cues for reminders, and teaching new memory strategies, occupational therapists build senior skills in memory.
3. Boost confidence and mood. If you used to be able to keep up with the best and most active, you may find your confidence drooping if your physical health or ability to care for yourself has changed. Don’t sentence yourself to a life of misery just because things are different—find out how to thrive and make the most of your golden years.
4. Caregiver coordination. While many independent seniors seek out occupational therapists in Englewood NJ, many family members are caregivers to those who are in need of care. But who cares for the caregiver? An occupational therapist can be a strong sense of support; even better, they are a knowledgeable source of support! Your OT professional will help by teaching you what they have taught your loved one, and by giving you tips and tricks to help out. Many also provide emotional support and self-care tips as part of their whole health approach.
5. Address dementia. There is typically no cure for dementia, and it is usually progressive. However, that does not mean that you cannot enjoy a good quality of life! Occupational therapists can help caregivers learn new ways to engage with the disabled or elderly loved one, such as changing up foods to entice aging taste buds, discussing memory strategies, and helping to determine when the person is safe at home, and when a higher level of care should be considered.
Ready to explore the benefits of occupational therapy for yourself or an aging loved one? Hire an expert occupational therapist in Englewood NJ today and see how we help improve functioning!