Occupational Therapy’s role in transition Services and planning
What is the definition of transition Services?
Transition is a movement from one state,stage or place to another (Merriam-Webster’s Collegiate Dictionary, 2015). Transitions can be involve changes in daily life sequences, functional abilities, environment or programming. Transition services are those interventions provided by professionals to support children and families as they move from one environment or program to the next.
What is the role of occupational therapy in transitional services?
Transition services aim to prepare,plan and support children and families as the child transitions from one stage to another. Occupational therapy practitioners examine child’s current and projected occupational needs within the child’s present and anticipated contexts and environments. Then they use their expertise in task analysis and environmental adaptations to provide opportunities for children and families to identify preferences, make choices, and participate in meaningful activities in the new stage in their home, school, work and community ( Handley-more, wall & Hollenbeck, 2013).
What are the specific Practice considerations for Transition services?
Occupational therapy practice in transition is guided by philosophical underpinnings that direct and impact clinical reasoning. These Include:
- Inclusion ( i.e., children with disabilities have the right to full and fair access to activities, social roles, relationships alongside typical children, with appropriate supports necessary for successful experience).
- Self- determination
- family- centered care ( that is treating families with respect and dignity).
At Concept One Medical Centre, we offer the full transition services with the aid of our experts in occupational therapy.