ROME (ITALPRESS) – World Occupational Therapy Day will be celebrated on Oct. 27, 2024. On the occasion of this anniversary, the Commission d’Albo Terapisti Occupational Therapists of the Order of Medical Radiology Health Technicians and Technical, Rehabilitation and Prevention Health Professions of Milan, Como, Lecco, Lodi, Monza Brianza and Sondrio wants to raise awareness of the importance of this Health Profession and its crucial role in improving the quality of life of people of all ages. “Occupational therapy is a discipline centered on the well-being of the person and his or her ability to carry out daily activities independently,” explains Michela Bentivegna, Chair of the Roll Committee. “Occupational Therapists work with people facing physical, cognitive, emotional or social difficulties to help them regain a full and satisfying life, improving their sense of autonomy and active participation in society. The instrument of the rehabilitation pathway are ‘occupations,’ that is, practical everyday activities such as cooking, taking care of oneself, accessing the world of work, trying out a hobby… all under the careful guidance of the Professional, who supports the person and accompanies him or her until he or she can do what he or she wants to do.” Occupational Therapists work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, rehabilitation centers, schools, nursing homes, and in the home, offering support to people with physical disabilities, neurological disorders, mental health problems, the elderly, children with developmental difficulties, and anyone who has experienced trauma that prevents them from performing their daily activities independently. “Among the many competencies encapsulated by the Order’s Health Professions, some are essential to ensuring a better quality of life for frail people,” comments Diego Catania, President of the Order. “Through its intervention, the Occupational Therapist supports people in need and their caregivers, strengthening the bond between the individual and society. Yet, like so many other care profiles, it suffers from a lack of professional, economic and social recognition that has a serious impact on the attractiveness of the Profession: this year, in Italy, Occupational Therapy Degree Courses are registering a 60 percent vacancy rate. An unsustainable shortage of Professionals is looming for the regional and national social and health fabric, which will fall on vulnerable individuals and their families.” “The importance of occupational therapy is fully recognized abroad, but here it is still struggling to establish itself,” Bentivegna points out. “Yet, the scientific literature shows its effectiveness in improving people’s daily lives. From those who have suffered a stroke to those who live with degenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s, Occupational Therapists help develop practical strategies for coping with daily challenges, promoting recovery of skills and psychological well-being.” The theme chosen for 2024 by the World Federation of Occupational Therapists is “Occupational Therapy for All and Everyone.” This phrase underscores the important role of the Profession in facilitating the ability of all individuals to participate in the activities they want, need or are expected to do in their daily lives. “Occupational therapy is not limited to the treatment of people with medical conditions, but is a tool for social transformation that aims for inclusion of everyone and everyone by removing barriers to accessing meaningful life experiences,” concludes the Bar Commission Chair. “My hope is that institutions will recognize and actively support the Profession, making targeted choices to ensure the availability of our services to those who need them. Only in this way can we build a more accessible society for all.”(ITALPRESS).
Photo: Press and Communication Office TSRM and PSTRP Order of Milan, Como, Lecco, Lodi, Monza Brianza and Sondrio
