Understanding Basic OT Terms and Concepts

Welcome to OT and Bae - your go-to blog for all things occupational therapy! Whether you're an OT student, a client, or simply interested in learning more about the field, this blog is dedicated to providing you with valuable information and insights.

As an Entry-level Occupational Therapy Doctoral student at USC, I understand the challenges and rewards that come with pursuing a career in occupational therapy. One of the key aspects of mastering the field is having a solid understanding of basic OT terms and concepts.

In this blog post, we will delve into some fundamental terms that every OT student and practitioner should know.

1. Occupational Therapy: Let's start with the basics - what is occupational therapy? Occupational therapy is a client-centered health profession that helps individuals of all ages to participate in the activities they need and want to do through the therapeutic use of everyday activities.

   
   

2. Occupation: In the context of occupational therapy, occupation refers to the meaningful activities that individuals engage in on a daily basis. These activities can range from self-care tasks, such as dressing and grooming, to leisure activities and work-related tasks.

   
   

3. Activity Analysis: Activity analysis is the process of breaking down an activity into its components to better understand the skills and abilities required to perform it. Occupational therapists use activity analysis to tailor interventions to meet the specific needs of their clients.

   
   

4. ADLs and IADLs: Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) are basic self-care tasks, such as bathing,

   dressing, and eating, that are essential for independent living. Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADLs) are more complex tasks, such as meal preparation, shopping, and managing finances, that require higher-level cognitive and physical skills.

   
   

5. Client-Centered Approach: Occupational therapy is guided by a client-centered approach, which means that interventions are tailored to meet the unique needs and goals of each individual client. By involving clients in the goal-setting process and considering their values and preferences, occupational therapists can deliver more effective and meaningful interventions.

   By familiarizing yourself with these basic OT terms and concepts, you will be better equipped to navigate your studies and future career in occupational therapy. Stay tuned for more informative posts on surviving OT school, what to expect as an OT student, and valuable insights from my own journey as an OT student at USC. Thank you for joining me on this OT and Bae journey - together, we can learn, grow, and thrive in the field of occupational therapy.