Occupational Therapy | Celebrating 100 Years
Occupational therapy (OT) was first recognized during WWI by the U.S. military.
“Reconstruction aides” provided OT services to wounded soldiers during the war, marking a pivotal time for the development of OT.
However, OT didn’t really come into existence until the early 1900’s.
In 1910, Susan Tracy, a nurse wrote the book “Studies in Invalid Occupations” outlining the benefits of occupational participation in mental health treatment. Later on, in 1915, Eleanor Clark Slagle, better known as the “mother of occupational therapy”, organized the first educational program for occupational therapists. This was a major turning point in the development of OT, earning the proper recognition in the medical field.
On October 14th, 1992, President George H.W. Bush signed a proclamation for National Occupational Therapy Day.
Occupational therapists play a vital role in evaluating and treating injured or disabled patients through the therapeutic use of everyday activities. More specifically, they help patients develop, recover, improve and maintain the skills needed for daily living and working.
Join us in celebrating Occupational Therapy Month.
Thank you to all 137K+ occupational therapists for “embracing challenges, enhancing lives”. We salute you!
#OTMonth