People who struggle to feed themselves,
get dressed, learn and work...
depend on occupational therapy assistants
and aides-to help them reach their goals.
These professionals help patients gain skills
and learn new ways to perform
activities of daily living, whether at home,
school, or work.
Occupational therapy-or OT-assistants
carry out treatment plans made by
occupational therapists,
treating patients from young children
to older adults.
They guide patients in the use of
special equipment,
and teach new ways to approach tasks
such as moving from bed to a wheelchair.
They document each step of patients' progress,
and consult frequently with the OT.
Occupational therapy aides
keep treatment areas clean, equipped,
and ready for the next patient.
They assist patients in moving
to and from treatment areas,
schedule appointments,
and help patients fill out billing
and insurance forms.
Most assistants and aides work in
occupational therapists' offices, hospitals,
and nursing care facilities.
Both spend many hours a day on their feet,
setting up equipment, bending,
and lifting patients when necessary.
Evening and weekend hours may be required.
Occupational therapy assistants
need an associate's degree
from an accredited program,
and, in most states, a license.
Aides typically have a high school diploma
or equivalent, and are trained on the job.
Helping restore meaningful activity
to the lives of their patients...
provides a sense of purpose to
OT aides and assistants.