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April is OT Month Tips on Talking to the PublicHow to use these Tips on Talking to the
Public:
Keep it Simple When talking to the public, speak simply, without using professional jargon. People will appreciate your effort to put complex thoughts into words they can easily understand. Think About What You'll Say Every time you go before the public, whether it is just one person or a roomful of people, think beforehand about the messages you want to drive home to your audience, and the best ways to communicate those messages. In most cases, making just three main points will be plenty. It allows you to focus the audience's attention on the things that are really important. Relax, You're the Expert Although style isn't everything, people will respond best to what you say if your delivery is relaxed and confident. Remember, when it comes to occupational therapy, you're the expert! Chances are slim there'll be questions you can't answer. If a question arises you're not comfortable answering, acknowledge the question and either promise to look into it or refer the questioner to another source. What to Say When Someone Asks "What Is Occupational Therapy?" Occupational therapy is a health profession that focuses on an individual's ability to participate in daily activities and lead a purposeful life. There are times when a health problem or injury can prevent you from participating in life's daily activities - things such as learning, working, socializing, driving, shopping, fixing dinner, or phoning a friend - or doing any number of important daily tasks. Occupational therapy can help a person to do all of these things, and more. Each year occupational therapy helps millions of people of all ages learn or regain skills that enable them to lead independent, purposeful lives. Research shows when people are able to participate in the world around them, they live happier, healthier, more productive lives. It also helps keep healthcare costs lower. Whether it's teaching a newborn to swallow, or helping a senior driver remain as safe driver, occupational therapy helps individuals participate in the world around them. Occupation therapy has proven effective in rehabilitation, mental health, community health, and education settings. Specialized practice areas include low vision therapy, stress reduction, ergonomics and safe workplaces, consultation to foster aging in place, community mobility and driving, and wellness coaching. What to Say When Someone Asks "What do Occupational Therapists and Occupational Therapy Assistants Do?" Occupational therapists are trained in many areas to work with individuals and in the community to promote wellness and increase participation in all aspects of daily life. Occupational therapists help people with physical and mental challenges to maximize their ability to perform the activities of daily living (ADLs) such as eating, dressing, bathing, toileting, and "Instrumental ADLs" that require thinking skills such as managing medications. In addition to working with individuals, occupational therapists and occupational therapy assistants conduct research, advise businesses, and influence public policy in their ongoing effort to promote wellness, participation, and well-being in society. Nearly one-third of all occupational therapists work with children in schools. A significant number work in hospitals, rehabilitation facilities, and nursing homes, helping people recover from injury or illness. What Does AOTA Do? The American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA) is one of the nation's oldest professional health care societies, representing nearly 35,000 occupational therapists, occupational therapy assistants, and occupational therapy students who help people of all ages maximize their ability to function independently and accomplish the everyday things that allow them to participate in the activities and events that give their lives meaning. AOTA serves its members and the public through advocacy, education, and publishing operations. AOTA also works to raise public awareness and understanding of occupational therapy.
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OT Month Sponsor
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