Typical OT Visits in Assisted Living Facilities

Meeting with Your Assisted Living Facility OT

Nearly all residents in assisted living facilities will meet with an occupational therapist (OT) at some point during their stay. Some residents experience medical emergencies that necessitate a transfer to a rehabilitation facility where they will receive between three and six OT sessions per week until they are able to move forward. Others will meet with an OT at their own assisted living facilities (many times in their own rooms) to receive recommendations for adaptive equipment that will ease discomfort, aid in stability or decrease their chances of injury.

Typical OT Meetings at Assisted Living Facilities

Assisted living facilities typically require each potential resident to complete an RN or physician screening prior to joining the facility. If the nurse or doctor recommends OT services, an onsite appointment will be scheduled.

During your initial OT meeting inside an assisted living facility, you can expect the OT to spend time talking with you about your daily routines, as well as any issues you might be concerned about. He will come equipped with any number of simple diagnostic tests designed to identify additional areas of concern. Driving, walking, bathing and completing household tasks are among those common areas.

After diagnosing and presenting treatment plans, he will help train you and your assisted living facility aides to utilize any needed equipment. Follow-up appointments will last from 45 to 60 minutes and will ensure that any implemented changes bring about increased autonomy and wellbeing.

Benefits of Therapy at Assisted Living Facilities

While it may seem difficult to master new skills and integrate new items into your everyday life, keep in mind that occupational therapy exists to help and not hinder your progress. Coming into your assisted living facility with an open mind and accepting the help as a method of self-empowerment will only benefit you in the long run. Remember, assisted living facilities are there to assist you in living out your absolute best life! And if using a "reacher" saves your back so you can pick up your great-grandchild when she visits, then it's all worth it.

Finding Assisted Living Facilities with Good OT Programs

If you're interested in assisted living facilities that offer onsite occupational therapy, simply ask one of our trained elder care advisors to narrow down a list of facilities in your area. Start by calling the toll-free number at the top of this page. Our advisors are standing by to help you find that perfect assisted living facility, free of charge.