Occupational Therapist (OT)

An occupational therapist (OT) is a licensed healthcare professional who helps people perform the everyday activities of daily living — bathing, dressing, cooking, moving around the home — safely and independently. For seniors, an OT is one of the most valuable resources for aging in place.

How an OT helps with home safety

• Home safety assessment — an OT can visit (or review) the home and identify fall hazards and barriers.
• Equipment recommendations — they suggest the right grab bars, shower chairs, transfer benches, raised toilet seats, and dressing aids for the person's specific abilities.
• Technique training — they teach safe ways to transfer, bathe, and dress, including precautions after surgery (such as hip precautions).

When to involve one

Consider an OT assessment after a fall, a new diagnosis, a hospital discharge, or any noticeable change in mobility. A doctor can provide a referral, and the assessment is sometimes covered by insurance or Medicare — ask your provider.

Many of the products we recommend, like the Bemis raised toilet seat, are specifically chosen by occupational therapists for their stability and ease of use.