occupational therapy

Occupational therapy (OT), also known as ergotherapy in Europe, is a healthcare profession that helps people take part in the everyday activities, or occupations, that are important for daily life. These occupations include self-care tasks, work, school, social participation, and leisure activities.

Occupational therapists work with people who experience illness, injury, disability, or age-related changes that limit their ability to function independently. They assess a person's needs, set goals, and use everyday activities as therapeutic tools. Therapists may also modify tasks, recommend adaptive equipment, or adjust the physical or social environment to support participation.