Productive aging serves as the primary focus in the May/June issue of American Journal of Occupational Therapy, reports an American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA) news release. Sharon J. Elliot, DHS, GCG, OTR/L, BCG, FAOTA, journal guest editor and adult therapy services coordinator for Therapeutic Life Center, Greenville, NC, highlights the key role occupational therapy (OT) practitioners play in the health and wellness of community-dwelling older adults, “The systematic reviews encompassed within this special issue help support the effectiveness of occupational therapy services for this growing population,” Elliot explains.

The release notes that the special journal issue spotlights evidence-based findings that promote facets that are vital to aging in place, including the necessity of developing health routines for all older adults, the effectiveness of OT wellness and prevention programs for older adults living in the community, and the positive impact that work, volunteering, physical activity, leisure, and social and religious activities have on the health and quality of life in older adults.

Journal co-editor Natalie E. Leland, PhD, OTR/L, BCG, assistant professor at the University of Southern California, division of occupational science and occupational therapy in the Herman Ostrow School of Dentistry and Davis School of Gerontology, explains the plight of older adults, “Within an environment that may not support their changing abilities, older adults aspire to age in place in the community while combating the management of multiple chronic conditions and the obstacles associated with the normal aging process.” Leland adds that the study results reflected in the special issue highlight the pivotal role OT practitioners in facilitating aging in place and allowing older adults to continue participating in desired activities, thereby maximizing quality of life.

For more information, visit http://ajot.aotapress.net or http://www.aota.org

Source: AOTA