OT: What it means to me
OT Week (October 23-29) is an annual week-long collection of events that celebrate occupational therapy as a profession.
It provides an opportunity for those who practice and receive occupational therapy care to tell their stories.
OTs assist people living with disability, or who are adjusting to life following illness or injury, to gain greater independence in their life.
This can include services that help with self-care, education performance or engaging in recreational activities.
They play an important role in improving the quality of life of people, including the parents and carers of the person receiving the service.
Meet Jake
Our occupational therapists are a team of talented and passionate professionals committed to supporting people to live their life, their way.
People like Jake Senior from our Western NSW Disability Services Team. “OT Week is designed to shine a light on the great work that OTs do across the country,” he says. “As well as raise awareness of our role and how we can assist those that may be unaware of what we do.”
The ability to help people reach their goals is what drew Jake to this career path. “In our role we get the opportunity help so many people,” says Jake, who joined The Benevolent Society in January this year. “It’s such a rewarding career; you will never be bored as each day brings new challenges and successes.”
Making a difference
The most rewarding aspect of Jake’s work is seeing the difference therapy makes in the lives of his clients.
For instance, Troy whose education and friendships are flourishing and Connor, who is showing a marked improvement in his behavior and communication skills. There’s also clients like Oscar, who are reaping the benefits of therapy.
Image: Client Troy smiling with his thumbs up.
Image: Client Connor with Occupational Therapist Pat.
“The best thing about my job is when I get to help little kids achieve goals through play as there is nothing greater than seeing and helping someone work towards a goal while having fun or playing games at the same time!” he says.
To find out more about how The Benevolent Society can help you, please call our Support Centre on 1800 236 762 or view our Services & Programs page.