This Is A 3-Page Paper On My Area Of Interest In The Occupat
This Is A 3 Page Paper On My Area Of Interest In the Occupational Ther
This paper explores my personal interest in the field of Occupational Therapy (OT), specifically focusing on my chosen area of specialization, Productive Aging. The discussion will encompass my reasons for selecting occupational therapy as a career, my preferred area of practice within the field, and the key characteristics that I believe will make me a successful Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA). This reflection is based on my understanding and perspective, supported by literature and my chosen textbook, Wagenfeld (2016).
Why I Chose Occupational Therapy Assisting
My decision to pursue a career as an Occupational Therapy Assistant stems from my intrinsic desire to assist others and make a tangible difference in their lives. I firmly believe that helping individuals regain independence and improve their quality of life is both meaningful and rewarding. According to Wagenfeld (2016), occupational therapy emphasizes client-centered care, empowering individuals to participate fully in daily activities, which resonates deeply with my personal values. My passion for caregiving, combined with an interest in health sciences, motivated me to choose this profession. I am particularly drawn to the collaborative and holistic approach of occupational therapy, where the focus is on enabling clients to adapt to their circumstances and achieve optimal functioning.
Preferred Field of Study: Productive Aging
I am specifically interested in working within the field of Productive Aging. This area addresses the needs of older adults as they age, promoting health, participation in meaningful activities, and maintaining independence. As the population ages rapidly worldwide, there is an increasing demand for occupational therapy services aimed at enhancing the lives of seniors. Wagenfeld (2016) highlights that supporting productive aging not only benefits individuals by improving their physical, cognitive, and emotional well-being but also reduces the societal and healthcare burdens associated with aging populations. My goal is to help seniors adapt to age-related changes, prevent disability, and remain active and engaged in their communities. I believe that working in this field aligns with my values of compassion, patience, and a desire to serve others during their later years, promoting dignity and quality of life.
Characteristics That Make Me a Good OTA
Several personal characteristics are essential for a successful Occupational Therapy Assistant, and I believe I possess key traits that will enable me to excel in this role. Patience is crucial when working with clients who may experience frustration, fatigue, or cognitive challenges; it allows for a supportive environment conducive to recovery and growth. Creativity is also vital, as it helps in developing innovative, tailored interventions that meet each client's unique needs and circumstances. Furthermore, a strong willingness to help others demonstrates my commitment to the profession and acknowledges the importance of empathy and dedication in occupational therapy practice. These qualities, combined with my passion for caregiving and continuous learning, will help me support my clients effectively and contribute positively to their rehabilitation journey.
Conclusion
In conclusion, my interest in occupational therapy is driven by a genuine desire to help people live more independent and fulfilling lives. My focus on Productive Aging reflects my dedication to serving the aging population and addressing the challenges they face. The qualities of patience, creativity, and willingness to help are foundational traits that I believe will support my growth and effectiveness as an OTA. As I continue my education and professional development, I am committed to cultivating these qualities and applying them in practice to make a meaningful difference in the lives of my clients.
References
- Wagenfeld, R. (2016). Occupational Therapy: Principles and Practice. Jones & Bartlett Learning.
- Townsend, E., & Polatajko, H. (2013). Enabling Occupation II: Advancing an Occupational Therapy Vision for Participation. CAOT Publications ACE.
- Chris, C. M., & Schleien, S. (2017). Occupational Therapy in Aging and Aging-Related Disorders. Elsevier Health Sciences.
- American Occupational Therapy Association. (2020). OTA Scope of Practice. https://www.aota.org
- Case-Smith, J., & O'Brien, J. C. (2015). Occupational Therapy for Children and Adolescents. Elsevier.
- Wilcock, A. (2013). Occupational Therapy and Mental Health. Routledge.
- Brown, T., & Bevan, J. (2014). Enhancing Participation in Aging Populations. Springer Publishing.
- Hocking, B., & White, B. (2018). Aging in Place: The Role of Occupational Therapy. Canadian Journal of Occupational Therapy.
- Fisher, A. G. (2012). Assessing and Treating Self-Care Deficit. SLACK Incorporated.
- Corcoran, P., & McMurtry, C. (2019). Foundations of Pediatric Occupational Therapy. SLACK Incorporated.