….Smoking!” Have you heard that comparison? Yes, sitting is the new smoking! For me that message is so very clear and powerful. Inactivity is causing a serious and negative impact to the health and well-being of us, our patients, our loved ones and our peers. Recent headlines tell the story……

Tai Chi Reduces Rate of Falls in Older and At-Risk Adults
Specialized Gyms Help Those With Disabilities Stay Fit
Stroke Recovery Linked to Stimulating Environment
Kids Should Get Outside 3 Hours Every Day
Gentle Activity Improves Performance for Frail Older Adults
Inactivity Linked to Loss of Independence

Study after study, population after population, for the very old, the very young, the disabled, the frail, the obese and for those at risk, increased activity translates into better physical health, better mental health and a better quality of life. Unfortunately, when living with a disability, an injury, or a serious illness, inactivity is the road traveled by many. Occupational therapists can profoundly impact this health crisis. As OTs, we see the whole person and are uniquely qualified to find out what they want to be able to do. We are trained to consider not only the physical disorder, but to focus on what is important to the patient. As we teach our patients meaningful ways to participate in a beloved activity or to follow a passion, patients discover their most powerful motivator: themselves.

The creativity of our profession shines as occupational therapists reduce environmental barriers, identify assistive technology or supports, and educate both patients along with caregivers. OTs help patients manage fatigue and pain, teach new ways of doing activities and put patients on a path to meaningfully participate in “their” occupation. Occupational therapists help gardeners garden again, hikers walk again, mechanics tinker again, artists create again.

I love being part of a profession that contributes so much to a patient’s ability to resume daily activities and move more. Helping patients be active is incredibly rewarding, especially in light of the damage done by doing nothing at all.
Go to work today, OTs, and keep your world moving.

Cheryl Hall, OT
Author and Illustrator, The Occupational Therapy Toolkit