“I don’t need an Occupational Therapist. I’m retired…”

When I was working for a major Home Care company, seeing patients after they were discharged from the hospital, I would have to call to set up a time for my evaluation. So many times, after I introduced myself, the patient would say “I don’t need an Occupational Therapist. I’m retired.” Sometimes this statement was said with a giggle, but most of the time, the patient seemed pretty serious and annoyed I was calling for such a strange thing.

And…I have to agree. The title doesn’t do us justice. We help people with their occupations of daily living - just about anything that occupies their day - but the name doesn’t convey that. People think I want them back in the work force.

In my 14 years as an OT, I’ve been called a PT, a nurse, a bath lady, and many more pleasant…and occasionally not so pleasant…names. It seems like patients have a hard time categorizing us. Everyone seems to understand that Physical Therapists work on walking and strengthening, nurses help with medications and medical issues, but what do OTs really do?

The main reason I love Occupational Therapy is because it encompasses so much. That’s also why I think it can be so confusing! Do you want to feel more steady walking in your home? We can help. Have you been wondering how to manage getting your socks and shoes on with limited mobility? We can recommend a few things. Are you just feeling a bit more tired and lacking energy? We have some tips. Basically, if you do it during your day, it’s an area that we can focus on. This includes anything from getting out of bed and using the bathroom, planning your day a little bit better to conserve energy, or helping you find a way to safely manage caring for your pets at home. Working in a patient’s home involves lots of problem-solving, but the nice part is that we’re able to work with exactly what you have.

When you’re in a facility or at an out-patient clinic, everything is simulated. They may have a really nice kitchen to practice some meal prep, but it doesn’t take into account that your refrigerator door opens the other way and sticks everytime you pull on it. You might be able to get in and out of their bathtub just fine, but your tub may be 8 inches higher at home. Working with clients in their own environment isn’t only more convenient for them, but it allows goals to be met more quickly.

I believe Occupational Therapy really is the most underrated in-home therapy of them all. We’re able to assist with just about anything you can think of in the home, and in fact, it’s exactly what we’re trained to do. If you think you would benefit from services, check with your insurance to see what would be covered, or feel free to reach out and I can help you with the process.

Consistent Care Therapy is currently serving clients living on Cape Cod and in Southeastern Massachusetts. Clients with Medicare Part B can have their insurance billed and clients with other insurances may be able to have their sessions paid for through out-of-network coverage. If you’re a caregiver of a loved one and just want some advice for yourself to make things easier, please inquire about private pay consulting options. Looking forward to hearing from you and helping you to see how OT can make a difference in your life!