Occupational therapy assistants help patients and individuals develop, recover, improve and maintain everyday skills needed for work and life. This may include working in pediatrics helping children with disabilities participate fully in school, helping people who have been injured regain skills, and providing support to older adults who experience physical or cognitive changes.
Occupational therapy plays an important role in treating people with various illnesses and disabilities to help them gain greater independence.
OTAs duties also differ from certified nurse assistants (CNA). CNAs focus more on providing personal care for patients, such as bathing and dressing.