Guiding Patients to Their Goals

When a stroke, Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis or another neurological condition causes functional deficits, understanding how to overcome them can be difficult. Occupational therapists show the way, using patients’ goals as a compass.

“We orient much of our work in occupational therapy around what patients want to accomplish,” said Kayla Robinson, OTR/L, occupational therapist at CHI Saint Joseph Health – Physical Therapy in Lexington, C.M. Gatton Beaumont YMCA and Saint Joseph Mount Sterling. “If, for example, patients want to be able to put on a shirt, tie their shoes, or get in and out of a tub, we change our plan to focus on their goals.”

During outpatient therapy, occupational therapists — often in coordination with physical therapists — help patients overcome weakness, poor balance and decreased motor skills to achieve greater independence. Sometimes, therapy involves working with special tools, such as weighted vests to boost balance, weights to simulate objects patients might need to lift at home and reflex training equipment.

“Even if a deficit is small, you can work on improving it and becoming more successful in your everyday life,” Robinson said. “I love to see patients improve. Every gain for them is a gain for me.”

Are you recovering from or living with a neurological disorder? Ask your primary care provider for a referral for rehabilitation services at a CHI Saint Joseph Health location near you.