Outside of our careers, we all have a job to do--the job of living. But sometimes physical, emotional, and other challenges can make it difficult for us to perform activities of daily living. That's where occupational therapy comes in. Occupational therapy makes it possible for people to achieve independence and enjoy life to the fullest.
Occupational therapists who enjoy working with children may choose to help them thrive in the "occupations" of childhood: learning, playing, and growing. Some occupational therapists work with students who have learning disabilities or behavioral problems; others work with premature newborns or children with cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, or other disabilities. Occupational therapists may also work with adults who have traumatic injuries, stroke, Alzheimer's disease, or mental health problems, helping them live productive lives through the use of meaningful occupations.
Newer occupational therapy specialties include training workers to use proper ergonomics on the job, making buildings and homes more accessible, helping people with low vision maintain their independence, performing older driver evaluation and training, and promoting general health and wellness.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of occupational therapists is expected to increase much faster than the average for all occupations through 2014. And, as cited in the American Occupational Therapy Association's 2006 Occupational Therapy Workforce and Compensation Report, the median salary for full-time occupational therapists is $55,800, while occupational therapists practicing in academic settings have the highest median salary--$66,000.
With a career in occupational therapy, you have the opportunity to help others enjoy the job of living.
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