terminology

What is Spasticity? Currently Accepted Definition for Occupational Therapy Practice vs Older Definitions

A common complication after a stroke is spasticity. Spasticity has been defined differently over the years. One of the most popular definitions for spasticity reads something like this: ‘a motor disorder characterized by a velocity-dependent increase in tonic stretch reflexes with exaggerated tendon jerks, resulting from hyperexcitability of the stretch reflex, as one component of … Read more

Occupation vs Activity – Occupational Therapy Definitions Explained

“Words are time bound.” What are the definitions of occupation and activity? What about purposeful activity? What are the similarities and differences between them? Can these words be used interchangeably? Why should we even bother with understanding the history, definitions, purpose, and usage trends of each word? After reading this post, you will have a … Read more

People-First Language vs Identity-First Language for Occupational Therapy Practice

People First vs Identity First Language Occupational Therapy

Background In 2006, the People First Respectful Language Modernization Act was enacted which “require the use of respectful language when referring to people with disabilities in all new and revised District laws, regulations, rules, and publications and all internet publications”. The National Federation of the Blind (NFB) has elected to use identity-first language instead of people-first … Read more

New Occupation Definition in OTPF-4 (Occupational Therapy Practice Framework)

Occupation Definition OTPF-4

Occupation Definition Update See our blog post on other changes and updates in the OTPF-4. OTPF-3 Occupation – Daily life activities in which people engage. Occupations occur in context and are influenced by the interplay among client factors, performance skills, and performance patterns. Occupations occur over time; have purpose, meaning, and perceived utility to the … Read more

OTPF-4 Update – Changes and What’s New for Occupational Therapy’s Practice Framework

OTPF-4 Update

Just like you were able with the OTPF 3, you can get a hold of the OTPF-4 from AOTA’s American Journal of Occupational Therapy as an article if you are a member or as a separate book purchase from their store. You can read about the changes in the OTPF in the first few secion … Read more