AOTA Recognizes Alzheimer's Awareness Month
North Bethesda, MD -The American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA) recognizes Alzheimer’s Awareness Month, a time to heighten awareness about Alzheimer’s disease and show support for the more than 6.2 million Americans living with it. The Alzheimer's Association recognizes the more than 11 million family members and friends who are currently caring for a person living with Alzheimer's nationwide.
Occupational therapy practitioners (OTPs) play a significant role in the lives of people living with the Alzheimer's. OTPs approach care of individuals with Alzheimer’s and related disorders from the perspective of managing their everyday activities (occupations.) Participation in life includes engaging in social, productive, and leisure activities across our routines and roles.
A diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease, a form of dementia, often significantly disrupts this routine and adjustments may need to occur to allow safe and satisfying involvement in everyday living. OTPs are experts in helping alter or adapt activities to fit the person’s current strengths and help family caregivers anticipate future adaptations by providing caregiver education.
The practical and functional approach of occupational therapy is often greatly appreciated by families overwhelmed by managing the varying aspects of decline that challenge people with Alzheimer’s disease.
Scott A. Trudeau, PhD, MAOT, Director Practice Engagement, AOTA Practice Staff Liaison to Special Interest Sections at the American Occupational Therapy Association says, “In spite of decline, with the right supports people with Alzheimer’s disease can live satisfying and productive lives late into the disease trajectory. While there may not yet be a cure, there are definitely care approaches, like occupational therapy, that work to preserve dignity and quality of life for those impacted by Alzheimer’s disease.”
For more information on Alzheimer’s disease, visit https://alzfdn.org/alzawarenessmonth/. For more information about the role of occupational therapy in care, AOTA has many resources and experts available for an interview with interested media. Contact: Jennifer Rignani, AOTA media relations, praota@aota.org or 412-977-5795.
About AOTA
Founded in 1917, the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA) represents the professional interests and concerns of more than 213,000 occupational therapists, assistants, and students nationwide. The Association educates the public and advances the profession of occupational therapy by providing resources, setting professional and educational standards, and serving as an advocate to improve health care. Based in Bethesda, Md., AOTA’s major programs and activities are directed toward promoting the professional development of its members and assuring consumer access to quality services so patients can maximize their individual potential. For more information, go to www.aota.org.