We all have life goals... Things we need, and want to do.
Sometimes things get in the way of our life goals, and life events can sometimes make our goals seem impossible to achieve.
"I love gardening, but it's difficult because I have arthritis"
"I want to drive my car, but couldn't after my stroke"
"I need to find a job, but it's been challenging since being diagnosed with schizophrenia"
"I want to make new friends, but it's hard because I have autism"
"I need to get dressed in the morning but I've just had a hip replacement, and can't bend forward"
'I had a spinal cord injury, but I want to live on my own"
"I need to do my food shopping, but it's difficult to remember because I have dementia"
'I have difficulty managing my responsibilities, because of my anxiety disorder'
'I haven't been able to ride my bicycle, since I had a brain injury"
Occupational therapists help people to find the tools and strategies they need to overcome barriers, such as illness and disability, and to reach their goals.
In 1948, the profession comprised a small band of mainly middle-class women, who worked under medical direction with long-stay patients in a hospital setting.
By 1998, over 18,000 occupational therapists were registered in the UK. Having gained degree-entry status, practitioners were increasingly self-directed and research-focused, and worked in a wide range of settings with all age-groups. It is a profession reflecting the ideals of the NHS to provide a service from 'the cradle to the grave.
In 1974 The British Association of Occupational Therapists (BAOT) was formed. This professional body supports members in clinical practise, and ensures high levels of standards. It protects both employee's and patients alike, and sets standards for personal conduct.
In recent years the role of the occupational therapist has changed from that of a craft-oriented medical technician to that of a professional clinician, researcher, educator
and consultant.
Occupational therapists have expressed the need to re-evaluate their roles, their responsibilities, and their education in order to meet the needs of changing patterns in
the organization and delivery of contemporary health services.
"A doctor will save your life. An occupational therapist will help you live it."
All occupational therapists practising in the UK must be registered with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC).
The HCPC set standards of conduct, performance and ethics expected from regulated professionals. Failure to comply can lead to additional training, disciplinary action, or being struck off as a practising professional.
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