If you find everyday tasks a bit tough due to an illness, injury or other condition, and leaving home is not easy, home-based occupational therapy might be what you need. CenterWell Home Health® therapists can come right to your home to help you move and function better, making daily tasks easier.
What is home-based occupational therapy?
At home, occupational therapists create a caring and helpful environment. They focus on making you feel safe and comfortable in your own space. They teach you how to handle your health and medications safely. This care is not just for you but also involves your family or caregivers, making them a big part of the process.(1)
Understanding the difference: Occupational therapy vs. physical therapy
- Occupational therapy helps you with the small movements you need for daily tasks like eating, bathing, dressing or cooking. It helps you adjust and manage your daily life better with your condition.
- Physical therapy helps you move your body better. It might include exercises to make you stronger and more balanced.
Why choose occupational therapy at home?
You can benefit from occupational therapy at home if you are dealing with physical, mental or cognitive challenges. By assessing the home environment and personal needs, occupational therapists can modify activities to promote independence. They focus on adapting tasks and surroundings to make what you want and need to do easier, such as bathing, dressing and meal preparation. This personalized support improves quality of life by fostering a sense of accomplishment and boosting confidence in performing everyday tasks.
Starting home health therapy with CenterWell
To start home health therapy, you’ll need:
- A doctor’s order for home therapy (following certain guidelines)
- A recent visit with a doctor about your health condition
- A Medicare-certified agency to provide the therapy
To qualify for home health therapy, you need to mostly be staying at home because it’s hard to go out without help, or you need things like crutches or a wheelchair. But this does not mean you have to be completely homebound.
We will work with you to improve your ability to get around so you can get back to doing things you enjoy and seeing people that you love.
Your first visit and what follows
The first time a CenterWell Home Health therapist visits, they will take their time to learn about your health and check your home to keep you safe. After that, they will work with your doctors and nurses to plan your future visits. CenterWell therapists are always here to help you, teaching you ways to stay safe at home and handle daily tasks more easily.
Managing your medications with occupational therapy
Managing your medications can be tricky, especially if you have to take several kinds or you are adding more to your routine. CenterWell’s occupational therapists make sure you understand your medications and find the best ways to manage them.(2)
CenterWell Home Health therapists are ready to help you
Home-based occupational therapy helps you live a more independent and confident life. It makes daily tasks and managing your health easier right where you feel most comfortable—your home! Whether it’s getting around better, doing everyday activities or handling medications, occupational therapists are there to support you every step of the way. Connect with one of our doctors in your area today!
Sources
(1) "Occupational therapy at home: What to expect," CenterWell Home Health, last accessed Oct. 15, 2024.
(2) "How occupational therapy helps patients with medication adherence," CenterWell Home Health, last accessed Oct. 15, 2024.
Disclaimer: Humana Inc. and its subsidiaries are committed to keeping humans in the loop. We used artificial intelligence (AI) to help write this. You should speak with a healthcare professional for your health needs, as this article is for informational purposes only.
