Empowering Disability Rights Through Occupational Therapy

docx

School

Moi University *

*We aren’t endorsed by this school

Course

135

Subject

Nursing

Date

Nov 24, 2024

Type

docx

Pages

6

Uploaded by Mutegimark60

Report
1 Empowering Disability Rights Through Occupational Therapy Student’s Name Student’s Id Name of the Institution Course Name Due Date
2 Empowering Disability Rights Through Occupational Therapy Introduction A persistent social issue is the worldwide effort to safeguard the rights of individuals with disabilities. This essay will examine the substantial contributions occupational therapy, a client- centered and holistic healthcare discipline, can make to promoting disability rights. Through its emphasis on improving individuals' functional capacities and encouragement of social engagement, occupational therapy has the potential to mitigate prejudice and cultivate an all- encompassing community. Thesis Occupational therapy may contribute to a more inclusive and accessible society for individuals with disabilities through its emphasis on the whole person and dedication to individual autonomy. Understanding the Challenges of Disability Rights Beyond their apparent defects, disabled persons deal with a variety of obstacles—both overt and covert forms of discrimination impact work and education. A lack of access to necessities fuels a difficult-to-escape cycle of marginalization. Successful interventions depend on understanding the intricate relationship between institutional restraints and cultural norms ( Hubbard, 1991) . Occupational therapy acknowledges these problems as complex rather than problems that must be solved and emphasizes the client's subjective experience. Accessible infrastructure, fair work opportunities, and inclusive education are top priorities for disability rights ( Eerola, 2012) . Occupational therapists do comprehensive examinations to determine the everyday obstacles faced by their patients. Workplace policy audits, inclusivity, and accessibility
3 may be part of this. By addressing these issues, occupational therapy can assist people with disabilities in leading active and fulfilling lives. The psychological and emotional costs of cultural biases also need not be disregarded. People with disabilities may experience bias and discrimination, which lowers their sense of self. Occupational therapists employ therapeutic strategies because resilience and self-advocacy depend on a comprehensive understanding of psychosocial issues. Occupational therapists change people and society when they identify and remove complicated barriers for people with disabilities. Holistic Approach to Occupational Therapy Occupational therapy is distinctive due to its comprehensive approach to health factors. This comprehensive approach to disability rights is advantageous. Occupational therapists examine the interrelationships between physical, cognitive, and psychological issues as opposed to treating them separately. A comprehensive comprehension of an individual enables interventions that enhance functionality and quality of life ( Crawford et al., 2017) . Occupational therapists collaborate with patients to develop individualized rehabilitation programs using a holistic methodology. These objectives comprise both individual and practical endeavors. Individuals with physical disabilities can still aspire to pursue employment or develop personal interests. When designing treatment, occupational therapists take client objectives into account. By emphasizing personal goals, individuals with disabilities can understand that they are entitled to meaningful lives. Additionally, social context is taken into account within the holistic framework. Disabled individuals are significantly influenced by institutional and cultural norms, as stated by occupational therapists. Occupatory therapy can revolutionize society by tackling urgent functional concerns and systemic change. The holistic approach fosters individual welfare and societal engagement, which is consistent with the objectives of disability rights.
Your preview ends here
Eager to read complete document? Join bartleby learn and gain access to the full version
  • Access to all documents
  • Unlimited textbook solutions
  • 24/7 expert homework help
4 Facilitating Independence and Social Inclusion Occupational therapists prioritize the freedom of their patients. Due to the possibility of cultural norms limiting expectations for people with impairments, this emphasis on disability rights is crucial. Occupational therapists work with clients to find areas where more independence can be achieved through skill development and adaptive techniques. People with physical limitations should look into assistive technologies and customized equipment to gain daily freedom. Occupational therapists teach patients to integrate these technologies into their regular lives. Occupational therapy has the potential to completely transform society by assisting impaired people to become more autonomous in their movement, communication, and self-care. Belonging to a community is essential to freedom. Occupational therapists see Independence as a means of gaining social involvement. Individuals with disabilities who have self-confidence are more likely to volunteer, work, go to school, and form friendships. Occupational therapy, thus, breaks down prejudices about people with disabilities and links the person's need for autonomy to society. Advocacy and Education Occupational therapists' advocacy work dispels prejudices against people with disabilities and modifies cultural attitudes. They participate in public outreach, education, and legislative cooperation to bring about change outside the hospital. Occupational therapists can shape public opinion and advance a more inclusive narrative by utilizing their extensive professional experience. Occupational therapists promote disability rights through their educational endeavors. Through workshops, seminars, and campaigns, they spread knowledge and increase awareness of diversity and inclusion. Growing awareness of the abilities of people with disabilities aids in the eradication of prejudice ( Samuel & Jacob, 2018) . Using these endeavors,
5 occupational therapists endeavor to modify societal perceptions and establish communities that appreciate variety and acknowledge the input of individuals with varying talents. Occupational therapists also help legislators and people with disabilities communicate. They are crucial for exposing the underlying factors that lead to unequal access to opportunities and resources ( Lillywhite & Haines, 2010) . Occupational therapists assist in developing and implementing policies that support diversity and cater to the needs of people with disabilities through advocacy. Occupational therapy is a pioneer in disability rights advocacy because of its integrated approach spanning clinical and societal domains. In conclusion, occupational therapy has developed into a profession committed to personal well-being and a potent advocate for disability rights. Occupational therapy is at the forefront of social inclusion because of its all-encompassing intervention approach and thorough understanding of the difficulties associated with disabilities. Occupational therapists have long supported institutional change and independence to enable people with disabilities to engage in society fully. Occupational therapy has the power to transform politics, the economy, and even families. Social justice and inclusivity are promoted by occupational therapists who place a high priority on client-centered goals, whole-person health, and changing public policy. By valuing their skills, aspirations, and achievements, occupational therapy assists people with disabilities in achieving equality. Occupational therapy encourages inclusion, which gives disabled individuals more power and builds a society that is more compassionate and just. References
6 Crawford, E., Aplin, T., & Rodger, S. (2017). Human rights in occupational therapy education: A step towards a more occupationally just global society. Australian Occupational Therapy Journal , 64 (2), 129–136. Eerola, M. C. (2012). Representations of Disability within Occupational Therapy Literature–A discourse analysis (Master's thesis, Norges teknisk-naturvitenskapelige universitet, Fakultet for samfunnsvitenskap og teknologiledelse, Institutt for sosialt arbeid og helsevitenskap). Hubbard, S. (1991). Towards a genuinely holistic approach to occupational therapy. British Journal of Occupational Therapy , 54 (11), 415–418. Lillywhite, A., & Haines, D. (2010). Occupational therapy and people with learning disabilities. College of Occupational Therapists: London, UK . Samuel, R., & Jacob, K. S. (2018). Empowering people with disabilities. Indian Journal of Psychological Medicine , 40 (4), 381-384.
Your preview ends here
Eager to read complete document? Join bartleby learn and gain access to the full version
  • Access to all documents
  • Unlimited textbook solutions
  • 24/7 expert homework help