The
textbook describes emerging areas of practice in the world of
occupational therapy such as aging in place, youth and children, and
assistive technology. Each of these areas of specialization involve
one-on-one interaction and listening to the specific needs of
individuals. In forming relationships of trust and paying careful
attention, aiding is really quite
simple. In the TED Talk “Why we need Universal Design,” Michael Nesmith
explains,through sign language, the desperate and necessary call for
universal design. Universal design means carefully assessing products,
spaces, places of work, and communities so that all individuals, no
matter what their disability may keep them from doing, have full access.
He uses the example of his mother, a woman who is deaf, longing to
attend a movie at the theaters. We have the technology and resources to
address this problem, but what are we missing? Compassion and
consideration for individuals with a disability can quickly resolve a
problem.
After reading and listening to these resources, I listened and reflected on the podcast "Au"
some Swimmers: The Role of OT in Swim Lessons for Kids with Autism. In
this podcast, a group of OT students worked with lifeguards that teach
children with autism swimming lessons. The seemingly daunting task of teaching the
life skill of swimming, was made quite simple with a few changes. The
students helped the lifeguards keep a log for each child, allowing them
to track progress, feelings, and milestones so that each teacher and
lesson went smoothly. The community center made changes in schedule so
that children who were overstimulated by the business of a crowd, could
attend classes during quiet hours. One child who was fearful of putting
his head underwater, was guided by the therapist to sprinkle water on
the lifeguard’s head. By slowly integrating the concept and being aware
of this need, the lifeguard soon watched the child confidently pursue
the new task.
The underlying pattern in each of these examples is being receptive, open, and compassionate to each and every
individual. If we, as therapists and humans, listen to the struggles,
fears, and needs of those around us, we can create solutions. I believe
that we are all wonderfully made and by building relationships of trust
and opening our ears, we can help every client to feel so.
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