Occupational therapists help people of all ages to fully engage in their daily lives, from their work and recreation to activities of daily living like getting dressed, cooking, eating and driving. Not only is the position flexible, but it is also growing. Check out these reasons to consider becoming an occupational therapist.
Occupational therapists can work with any age demographic
Occupational therapy can apply to everyone at any stage of life! If you ever get bored with your position or the hours you’re working, you can always look into a different area or specialty of practice or care.
You can choose to focus on pediatrics, geriatrics, or encompass treating all ages.
Pediatric therapists will typically follow a teachers schedule and might have summers off; however, if you prefer to avoid younger patients, you can obtain a position that focuses solely on the older demographic.
All of the different types of treatment settings is another major benefit of this career choice!
Occupational therapy has a high job satisfaction
Working to restore functional independence to those that have had it taken away, is one of the most rewarding feelings in the world. Not only is it rewarding, but can be extremely influential as well, particularly to our patients receiving our care.
As an Occupational Therapist, you make a difference in people’s lives. You are serving the humanity and this feeling gives you inner peace and immense satisfaction.
There is a huge demand for occupational therapy
The first and foremost benefit of being an occupational therapist is the availability of tremendous job opportunities. Due to this, graduates in this field don’t face many difficulties in finding a job. As per the report of the Bureau of Labor and statistics, it is anticipated that from 2014 to 2024, there would be a growth of 27 percent in the career outlook for occupational therapists in the United States of America.
Occupational therapy is always evolving
Occupational therapy is an evolving profession that applies to everyone and all aspects of life.
With the evolution of 3D printing, there has been a new and emerging trend for 3D printed splints for hand therapy and burn treatment. 3D printing can also play a role in assisting with functional prosthesis training.
With modifications of inclusion classrooms, playgrounds, and sports, occupational therapists are the ones making it all possible. Occupational therapy has a deep root in emerging trends and is always taking an active role in innovation.