Govt Celebrates World Occupational Therapy Day

On October 27, Bermuda will join the global community in celebrating World Occupational Therapy Day, recognizing the vital contributions of Occupational Therapists [OTs] who empower individuals to engage fully in daily life and promoting the 2024 theme, “Occupational Therapy for All.”

A Government spokesperson said, “World Occupational Therapy Day will be celebrated on October 27th, highlighting the diverse and impactful roles that Occupational Therapists [OTs] play in healthcare. This day recognizes the dedication of OT professionals working within the Department of Health, whose therapeutic interventions empower individuals of all ages to participate fully in daily life activities.

“The theme for World Occupational Therapy Day 2024, “Occupational Therapy for All,” underscores the profession’s mission to help individuals, communities, and populations engage in meaningful activities they want, need, or are expected to do, according to the World Federation of Occupational Therapists [WFOT].”

Minister of Health Kim Wilson emphasized the essential role of OTs in healthcare teams, stating: “OTs assist individuals with various illnesses and disabilities in adapting to their circumstances. Recognizing the growing demand for OTs, the Ministry of Health has included this field in the Barbara Ball Health Scholarships. Occupational therapy is a deeply rewarding career, offering the opportunity to support people living with conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease, cerebral palsy, autism, or limb loss, while working collaboratively within a healthcare team.”

A Government spokesperson added, “Occupational therapy focuses on promoting health and well-being through engagement in everyday activities. OTs work with individuals and communities to enhance participation by modifying tasks or environments and utilizing personalized approaches. Within the Department of Health, OTs assist children with disabilities in schools, help adults recovering from injuries regain skills, and support seniors in maintaining independence at home, improving their overall quality of life.”

Dr. Pashé Douglas-Sampson, an Occupational Therapist with the Department of Health said, “Occupational Therapy is a science-driven healthcare profession that assists individuals participate in meaningful occupations to regain or become independent in their daily lives. As an occupational therapist, you have the unique opportunity to work with people of all ages in any setting and any role that’s motivating and important to them. Occupational therapists work with individuals experiencing challenges due to accidents, illness, disability, trauma, learning difficulties, and normal aging.”

“In Bermuda, we have approximately 37 registered Occupational Therapists working at the Bermuda Hospitals Board, within the Department of Health, and in private practice in our community. We provide services to individuals across the lifespan improving their well-being and promoting wellness for a healthy lifestyle.”

A Government spokesperson added, “CITV has produced a series of videos featuring local OTs sharing their experiences and insights. To view these videos and learn more about occupational therapy, visit www.gov.bm/occupational-therapy.”

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