Technology-Enhanced Interventions

Course overview

The occupational therapy profession must continue to evolve as new trends and technologies emerge. From implementation in intervention to research regarding what has just been released, OTs should strive to stay up to date on technologies and their effect on treatment. This means exploring innovative devices and treatments that can be incorporated into OT sessions, as well as having a working knowledge of technologies that may be utilized by other healthcare disciplines. Technology in the occupational therapy world falls under the category of environmental factors related to service delivery. To this end, the 4th Edition of the Occupational Therapy Practice Framework lists assistive technology as an example of an environmental factor. Therefore, technology is interwoven in the fabric of occupational therapy foundations. Many forms of assistive technology can be used to support skill development, make the environment more accessible for patients with chronic and acute health conditions, facilitate routine and skill maintenance, and help individuals participate in a variety of occupations.