Occupational therapy plays a crucial role in supporting individuals with Parkinson’s. It empowers people with Parkinson’s to adapt, engage in meaningful activities, and have a better quality of life despite the challenges posed by the condition.
What do OTs do?
Accessing an occupational therapist (OT) can significantly enhance the quality of life for someone living with Parkinson’s. Occupational therapists specialise in helping people participate in meaningful and necessary daily activities (also referred to as ‘occupations‘). For someone with Parkinson’s, this support is crucial due to the progressive nature of the condition, which can affect physical movement, coordination, and cognitive functions.
- OTs conduct holistic individual assessments, considering physical, cognitive, emotional, and environmental factors. They can then tailor interventions to the specific needs, goals and values of each person living with Parkinson’s to address their particular symptoms.
- OTs help individuals maintain their independence by addressing daily living activities like personal care, driving, and communicating. They also provide strategies to overcome difficulties in tasks such as bathing and dressing, accessing the community, housework, laundry, and gardening.
- OTs help modify the home environment to enhance safety and accessibility. This may include recommending adaptive equipment, rearranging furniture, or suggesting changes to improve mobility.
- OTs can introduce augmentative and alternative communication devices (such as iPads or dictation Apps on smartphones) to those experiencing communication challenges.
- OTs address hand dexterity and fine motor skills. They provide exercises and techniques to improve hand function, which can be affected by Parkinson’s.
- Occupational therapy emphasises preventive measures. Therapists educate individuals on energy conservation, fall prevention, and maintaining overall wellbeing. They can help with personal safety devices like personal alarm systems and how to use them.
- OTs who have experience working with people living with Parkinson‘s will be able to provide practical solutions to challenges and barriers you may be experiencing. They can help you identify and build on your strengths, adapt activities you love to stay engaged, and modify your environment at home or work so you can keep doing what you value most safely.
- OT’s can suggest modifications to the home environment for safety and assistive technology.
How do I access an OT?
Accessing occupational therapy services can make a significant difference in managing the symptoms of Parkinson’s, improving quality of life and maintaining independence. It’s advisable to explore all available pathways to find the support that best suits your individual needs. Look to:
- your GP for a referral to an OT, preferably one with experience with Parkinson’s
- your state/territory-based Parkinson’s organisation for advice on OTs who specialise in PD in your local area
- private health to see what is covered in relation to OT consultations and expenses
- NDIS or My Aged Care plan supports
- To find an OT go to: www.otaus.com.au
Info kindly reviewed by Occupational Therapy Australia. Australia’s professional association and peak body for occupational therapy, Occupational Therapy Australia (OTA) fosters evidence-based practice, enables lifelong learning and promotes the future of occupational therapy. OTA exists to support occupational therapists to support their community.
References:
Gupta, Parul, Neha Jain, and S. K. Meena. “Enhancing Quality of Life in Parkinson’s Disease: A Systematic Review of Occupational Therapy Interventions on Balance and Reaction Time.” Journal of Complementary and Alternative Medical Research 23, no. 4 (2023): 24-32.
ParkinsonNet Occupational therapy guidelines www.parkinsonnet.com/guidelines
Sturkenboom, I. H., M. J. Graff, J. C. Hendriks, Y. Veenhuizen, M. Munneke, and B. R. Bloem. “Occupational Therapy for Patients with Parkinson’s Disease.” 50 Studies Every Occupational Therapist Should Know (2023): 59.
