Caregiver Burnout Series: Seek Occupational Therapy
Years ago, when I was a social worker in a rehabilitation center, my patients were often confused about why they were going to Occupational Therapy. After all, they weren’t focused on “work” at the moment.
The profession isn’t about working but about improving daily functioning for both the caregiver and care recipient.
Occupational Therapy (OT) is a form of therapy that can improve individuals’ physical and mental well-being recovering from or living with an illness. Included in this are practices that help with fine motor coordination for dressing, eating, and writing.
In addition, OTs teach ways to do everyday tasks, like grooming, shopping, and recreational activities. Helping a caregiver learn safer and easier ways to assist someone is beneficial for everyone.
“Occupational therapist-led intervention was found to have a significant effect on reducing caregiver burden by better managing the mood and behavioural symptoms of the care-recipients.” This observation reflected a study of more than 26,000 caregivers looking after relatives or friends with dementia.
So often, a care recipient will accept the input or help from a professional rather than their family caregiver. Creating boundaries for who will help the care receiver with different tasks is helpful for the caregiver/receiver relationship. However, balancing multiple roles in caregiving is problematic and contributes to burnout.
Insurance often covers OT services with a referral.
If you’d like an evaluation, ask your provider or home health care agencies to find an OT who can come into your home. Having an in-home assessment allows them to see how you’re currently functioning and offer any recommendations for equipment or methods to make your lives easier.
Understanding the roles of care providers helps caregivers identify who can meet their needs and ease some of the efforts that go into caregiving. In addition, the Occupational Therapist is a valuable resource for helping the care receiver and caregiver function in the home and community.
PS. This is the fifth article in an 8-week, 8-post series.
Next up: Don't fall into the self-care trap (coming Monday, 23 August)
Previously:
Caregiving can be a challenging time.
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