The demand for occupational therapists (OTs) is becoming more and more important. Especially in an aging area like St. He Augustine, Florida.
of ponte vedra recorder I will explain “As health care concerns arise with age, a shortage of health care providers will become increasingly apparent, especially in states like Florida with the largest elderly population.”
As retirees move to the Sunshine State in search of desirable amenities and a comfortable lifestyle, the attraction for qualified health care professionals in the area and elsewhere with large senior populations is increasing.
This need will become even more pronounced by 2030, when baby boomers born between 1946 and 1964 will be over 65. That’s an “estimated 73 million people, or about 22% of the population.” According to the U.S. Census Bureau.
As the population ages, abundant job opportunities for occupational therapists are expanding.
DrOT, MBA, OTR/L Tia Hughes said:
OT enables individuals to overcome physical, cognitive, or social challenges and engage in meaningful activities, from driving a car to using adaptive devices. We support daily life that has become difficult due to falls prevention, medication management, pet care, injury, illness, disability, etc.
Tailor-made and timely treatment helps older patients maintain independence and enjoy a high quality of life.
Tia Hughes, Ph.D., associate dean of the College of Rehabilitation Sciences for Occupational Therapy at St. Augustine University Health Sciences (USAHS), says to look for signs that an individual is in need of occupational therapy. “When things that used to be easy are becoming a little bit harder,” she said.
USAHS meets the growing needs of occupational therapists.
USAHS’ immersive and dynamic OT program prepares students to meet evolving patient requirements. “When we take on students, we want to make sure they have the hands-on experience and skills they need to succeed in tomorrow’s patient settings,” he said.
Students can choose from three USAHS degree programs – Master of Occupational Therapy (MOT), Physician of Occupational Therapy (OTD), or Practitioner of Occupational Therapy (PPOTD). The USAHS OT program, with its residential and flex scheduling formats, is designed to flexibly accommodate students’ unique lifestyles.
according to U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), occupational therapy is a rapidly growing and highly paid profession. OT degrees can be transferred between states without the need for recertification. Additionally, OTs may choose to work with patients of all ages in a variety of health care professions and in a variety of health care settings.
Hughes sees OT as a road to independence in an aging society and a fulfilling career path for future OT practitioners.
Ready to start your challenging role in occupational therapy? Discover USAHS’ immersive OT program and Apply Today.
Dr. Hughes Conversation on Occupational Therapy and Please check ponte vedra recorder article.
