A stroke can be a life-altering event. However, there are things you can do to improve your quality of life and ability to perform activities of daily living after experiencing one. For example, seeking occupational therapy in Fayetteville may help improve outcomes.
Occupational therapists work with patients after a stroke to help them regain previous abilities. They concentrate on improving motor and sensory skills, which can help with new physical and cognitive limitations brought on by the stroke.
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Understanding Post-Stroke Occupational Therapy
Unlike physical therapy, which focuses on rebuilding strength and recovering from a bodily injury, occupational therapy is designed to make everyday tasks easier. This is often done through exercise and activities that mimic typical daily actions. For example, you may be asked to wear an oven mitt on your stronger side to force the use of the weaker one.
Improving Your Sensory and Motor Abilities
Sensory and motor abilities are often affected by a stroke. For example, it is common for patients to have difficulty with vision and spatial perception. Others struggle with weakness in one side or a loss of balance. Occupational therapists focus on improving these specific deficits to improve your quality of life.
Relearn Valuable Daily Skills
Many individuals must relearn basic skills of daily living, such as grooming or picking up nearby items, after a stroke. Occupational therapists are trained to help you regain these skills. While the best physical therapists near Fayetteville will help you understand and overcome your physical limitations as you relearn how to complete daily activities, OTs work with you to regain sensory and motor skills lost during your stroke. This is especially helpful when it comes to completing cognitive tasks.
Find Ways To Manage Obstacles
Some patients recover from a stroke with little to no lasting physical or cognitive effects. Unfortunately, this is not the typical outcome. However, an occupational therapist can help you overcome new obstacles after a stroke with strategies like home modifications, accessibility tools, and learning new ways of performing old behaviors.
Home Modifications
For some individuals, home modifications may be necessary after a store. However, most people do not need major home renovations. Instead, many little changes provide significant help when it comes to being more comfortable, productive, and fulfilled. For example, your therapist may suggest investing in tools to make opening jars easier or installing grab bars to help you get in and out of the shower more easily.
New Ways of Completing Everyday Actions
Unfortunately, not everyone can regain the ability to do the things they used to enjoy after a stroke. Even everyday activities like getting dressed, bathing, and cooking can be challenging. Instead of forcing something that isn’t going to work, an occupational therapist will work with you to learn new ways of doing those things.
If you or a loved one has experienced a stroke, there is help to regain valuable life skills. Research options for occupational and physical therapy treatment near me to get in touch with a professional who can help you recover lost abilities and independence.