Living Life Worthy of the Calling

As an occupational therapist its important to make connections with your clients to have a better understanding of what they are going through. You can do so by establishing a therapeutic relationship.  A therapeutic relationship is the interaction between the therapist and the client. Building a sense of trust between you and the client is what I see as most important. I believe I will succeed at this by letting them know that I truly care about them and their well being. I will do this by not only my words but my actions. Showing empathy by putting my self in their shoes will give me a better understanding of what they are going through and allow me to connect with them and gain their trust.

 It makes me sad to think about how individuals with disabilities were treated in the 20 th century. America has made significant improvements over the years but my main take away from the presentation today was that there are still improvements to be made. As professionals in the health field we need to continue advocating and educating those in our communities.  During Era Presentations, we saw just a snap shot of the progress that has been made for individuals with disabilities like the rehabilitation movement. Throughout the presentation from today’s session we got a deeper understanding of what individuals with disabilities went through. They were dehumanized and isolated from society. Having the background from era presentations and events that went on during different times gave me a better understanding today when looking at the timeline for the history of disabilities.  As an OT practioner I will see individuals beyond their disabilities. I will do so by und...

The Occupational Therapy Practice Framework gives occupational therapist a common language. It is an official document of the American Occupational Therapy Association. It describes central concepts that develop occupational therapy practice and gives a basic understanding of the professions vision. As an occupational therapy student I find it important to learn about because it gives me guidelines and knowledge about my profession. It provides concepts and evidence related to occupations and occupational therapy and how to relate that to appropriate clients.

One of my many roles in life is being an older sister. As an older sister, one of my occupations is taking care of my younger siblings. An activity that involves taking care of my younger siblings is driving them to and from school. A task associated with this activity is griping the steering wheel.

In 1952 around 21,000 Americans became ill with Polio. Polio is caused by the poliovirus that can potentially infect the brain and spinal cord resulting in paralysis. As you can imagine, the need for rehabilitation increased during this time in attempt to decrease symptoms the poliovirus caused. Occupational therapist at this time were using therapeutic methods such as knitting and weaving to help individuals gain back independence. There was also an increase use of hydrotherapy during this time.   Unfortunately, several thousand polio survivors are now experiencing new weaknesses and pains relating to their previous disease. Occupational therapist are still working with these individuals to help regain independence and adapt to different environments. Although therapist today have access to newer technology and adaptive equipment, the effects of polio and its treatments are similar even after so many years.