How Design and Occupational Therapy Blend Together.

April is Occupational Therapy Month and I could not think of a better time to share with you how occupational therapy and design work together.  But first, we need to answer the question, ‘What is occupational therapy?’ 

Occupational therapy is a science-driven, evidence-based profession that enables people of all ages to participate in daily living or live better with injury, illness, or disability.  This is accomplished through designing strategies for everyday living and customizing environments to develop and maximize potential.  (AOTA) Our goal as occupational therapists is to promote health, well-being and for you to fully participate in your daily activities.  We are the expert problem-solvers to help you achieve these goals.

Now, like one of your favorite recipes we add in design, then another special ingredient, kitchen and bath design. There are recommended guidelines for space planning, storage space and the most efficient way to move in your space ‘the work triangle.’ Now, blend them together, the value of occupational therapy and design combines well.  As an occupational therapist and kitchen & bath designer, I am not only assessing the best layout for your new kitchen, I’m also taking in account how your kitchen will be fit perfectly for you, your family, and your friends.  I’m looking at all aspects of the people who plan to use the space – physical abilities, vision, how a person moves in their space, daily routines and to enable full participation with the activities that will occur in this space.  I’m adding in the secret ingredients that make a family recipe so sweet! I like to think of the end results as a family getting together to make Christmas cookies.  Everyone is involved and able to use the space from a young great-grandchild to a great-grandparent.  A wonderful recipe for all to enjoy!