The impact that occupational therapists have in the healthcare industry will be recognised and honoured today, the Ministry of Health announced.

World Occupational Therapist Day will shine a spotlight on those healthcare professionals who assist others.

The theme of this year’s celebration, “Occupational therapy for all”, underscores the field’s goal of helping people perform their daily activities.

Kim Wilson, the Minister of Health, said: “OTs assist individuals with various illnesses and disabilities in adapting to their circumstances.

“Recognising the growing demand for OTs, the Ministry of Health has included this field in the Barbara Ball Health Scholarships.

“Occupational therapy is a deeply rewarding career, offering the opportunity to support people living with conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease, cerebral palsy, autism or limb loss, while working collaboratively within a healthcare team.”

Occupational therapists help people perform everyday tasks by changing these tasks and environments to fit patients’ abilities.

Therapists at the Department of Health assist children with disabilities in schools, help adults recovering from injuries and support seniors living alone.

Pashé Douglas-Sampson, an occupational therapist with the Department of Health, said: “Occupational therapy is a science-driven healthcare profession that assists individuals participate in meaningful occupations to regain or become independent in their daily lives.

“As an occupational therapist, you have the unique opportunity to work with people of all ages in any setting and any role that’s motivating and important to them.

“Occupational therapists work with individuals experiencing challenges due to accidents, illness, disability, trauma, learning difficulties and normal ageing.”

Bermuda has about 37 occupational therapists working at the Bermuda Hospitals Board, within the Department of Health, or in private practice.

CITV has produced a series of videos featuring local occupational therapists sharing their experiences and insights.

These videos and more information about occupational therapy can be found on the government website.