As seniors age, maintaining independence and quality of life becomes increasingly important. One way to help seniors preserve their independence and improve their daily lives is through occupational therapy. This specialized therapy is designed to help older adults develop or maintain the skills they need to perform activities of daily living (ADLs) and continue living fulfilling lives.
What is occupational therapy?
Occupational therapy (OT) is a healthcare service that helps individuals develop, recover, or maintain the skills needed for activities of daily living (ADLs) such as dressing, eating, bathing, and even managing household chores.
For seniors, OT can be a critical tool for maintaining independence and preventing injuries. Therapists work with each resident individually, assessing their abilities and challenges and creating personalized treatment plans that focus on improving their overall well-being.
How does occupational therapy benefit seniors?
For seniors, occupational therapy offers numerous benefits that go beyond simply regaining physical abilities. Some of the key benefits include:
- Improved mobility & balance: Occupational therapy enhances balance, reduces fall risks, and improves mobility for safer movement.
- Enhanced independence: OT supports daily tasks, helping seniors maintain independence at home or in a community setting.
- Cognitive support: OT addresses memory loss and cognitive challenges, especially for seniors with Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia.
- Pain management: OT assists with pain management and injury prevention through movement adaptations and assistive devices.
- Emotional well-being: OT boosts self-esteem and a sense of accomplishment by empowering seniors to regain control over their daily activities.
Where does one receive occupational therapy?
Occupational therapy is provided in a variety of settings, including hospitals, outpatient clinics, and senior living communities. For seniors who live in a senior living community like Central Baptist Village, occupational therapy is available on-site, ensuring easy access to treatment without needing to travel to a separate facility.
Occupational therapy at Central Baptist Village
HealthPRO Heritage, in partnership with Central Baptist Village, offers specialized occupational therapy services that help CBV residents maintain independence, improve quality of life, and age in place. This collaboration is rooted in a shared commitment to providing the best care for each resident.
Kristy Perez, Rehabilitation Director for HealthPRO Heritage, says, “HealthPRO Heritage and Central Baptist Village share a strong focus on resident care and wellness. It’s about ensuring the best quality of life and empowering each resident to reach their highest potential.”
A key feature of the occupational therapy program at Central Baptist Village is Ageless Abilities, a specialized dementia care initiative. Kristy explains, “While we treat dementia holistically within our regular therapy practices, Ageless Abilities allows us to take a more in-depth approach. We work closely with the care team to develop strategies that meet the specific needs of each resident, helping them maintain meaningful connections and quality of life.”
Collaboration is key to their approach. Kailey Thompson, Regional Vice President of Operations for HealthPRO Heritage, emphasizes, “Our interdisciplinary team, including Therapists, Nurses, and Activity Coordinators, meets to evaluate residents together. By collaborating in real time, we can address any concerns and ensure that each resident stays at their highest level of function.”
Another standout program is Defying Gravity, which focuses on improving balance and preventing falls for residents. Kailey says, “This program focuses on improving balance and preventing falls, whether residents are in Assisted Living or Skilled Nursing. It’s a proactive way to keep residents safe and confident in their mobility.”
HealthPRO Heritage’s Therapists focus on personalization, getting to know each resident’s abilities, preferences, and challenges. Kristy adds, “Our Therapists take the time to get to know each resident during their evaluations. We also involve families in the process to understand the resident’s prior level of care and set goals that are meaningful to them.”
Get the care you need today
Occupational therapy at Central Baptist Village, supported by HealthPRO Heritage, helps seniors maintain independence, manage pain, and improve mobility and cognition. Through innovative programs like Ageless Abilities and Defying Gravity, along with collaborative care, residents receive personalized, holistic services that enhance their quality of life. For HealthPRO Heritage and Central Baptist Village, residents are at the heart of everything.
If you or a loved one would benefit from personalized, high-quality occupational therapy in a supportive senior living community, reach out to Central Baptist Village today at 708.515.4856. Let us show you how we can help you live your best life with the support of HealthPRO Heritage’s exceptional therapy services.
