Celebrating Occupational Therapy Month: Helping Seniors Stay Safe, Strong, and Independent - WelbeHealth

April is Occupational Therapy Awareness Month! It’s a special time to honor the amazing work of Occupational Therapists (OTs)—especially those who care for older adults through PACE (Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly).

At WelbeHealth, OTs are a big part of helping seniors live safely at home, stay active, and feel their best. Here’s how they make a difference—and a few tips they recommend for living well every day.

What is Occupational Therapy?

Occupational therapy helps people do the things they need and love to do—like getting dressed, cooking, or even gardening.

OTs work with people of all ages, but they’re especially helpful for older adults. They use simple tools, helpful strategies, and safe exercises to make everyday life easier and safer.

How OTs Help in PACE

PACE is a special care program that helps seniors improve their health and social well-being and to live at home longer. OTs are a key part of the PACE team. Here’s what they do:

• Prevent Falls: OTs check your home for safety and may suggest things like grab bars or better lighting.

• Support Daily Tasks: From brushing your teeth to making dinner, OTs show ways to do tasks more easily.

• Boost Brain Health: For those with memory loss, OTs offer tips and activities to stay sharp.

• Improve Mood: OTs help seniors stay active and connected, which can ease sadness or loneliness.

Top 10 OT Tips for Living Well

Want to stay healthy and independent? Here are 10 simple OT tips anyone can try:

1. Make Your Home Easy to Use
   Keep important items close by to avoid reaching or bending too much.
2. Try Helpful Tools
   Use items like grabbers or button hooks to make daily tasks easier.
3. Sit and Stand Safely
   Use a sturdy chair with good back support. Make sure tables and counters are the right height.
4. Stay Active in Life
   Enjoy hobbies, volunteer, or try a new craft. These boost your mood and mind.
5. Take Breaks Often
   Move around every 30 minutes to avoid stiffness.
6. Move Your Body
   Gentle exercise like walking, stretching, or balance moves helps prevent falls.
7. Use Memory Tools
   Sticky notes, calendars, or phone reminders can help keep you on track.
8. Connect with Others
   Spend time with family and friends. Social time is good for the heart and mind.
9. Get Good Sleep
   Aim for 7–9 hours of rest each night to feel your best.
10. Ask for Help
    If something feels hard or unsafe, don’t push through. Talk to your care team or OT for support.

Want to Learn More?

If you or a loved one is part of WelbeHealth’s PACE program, your care team can connect you with an OT. These experts can create a plan just for you—helping you stay strong, safe, and doing the things you enjoy most.

Authored by: Himanshu Dewan | Rehabilitation Manager, Modesto