occupational therapy

noun

: therapy based on engagement in meaningful activities of daily life (such as self-care skills, education, work, or social interaction) especially to enable or encourage participation in such activities despite impairments or limitations in physical or mental functioning

occupational therapist noun

Examples of occupational therapy in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Patients receive supportive care, including hospital admission, fluids, anti-inflammatory medications, breathing support if needed, and physical and occupational therapy. —Faye Chiu, CNN, 23 Sep. 2024

Researchers have developed a list of 33 core skills that are essential for navigating a wheelchair in a variety of environments, but kids might not learn these skills in school or in physical and occupational therapy. —Elizabeth Gabriel, NPR, 2 Sep. 2024

Those schools can be required to provide occupational therapy, speech therapy, and other services for students with disabilities, as well as working with families to develop individualized education plans. —Anna North, Vox, 16 Aug. 2024

Treatment options depend on the underlying cause but can include medication, physical therapy, occupational therapy, and surgery. —Lana Barhum, Verywell Health, 31 July 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1915, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

occupational therapy

noun

: therapy based on engagement in meaningful activities of daily life (as self-care skills, education, work, or social interaction) especially to enable or encourage participation in such activities despite impairments or limitations in physical or mental functioning