Occupational Therapists in the Spotlight This Month, Helping Patients Drive Safely
May is National Mobility Month
When it comes to helping patients recover or improve basic motor skills for daily tasks, occupational therapy is key, so it only stands to reason OTs are instrumental in helping patients drive. That’s why National Mobility Month this May snags the attention of allied health professionals, particularly occupational therapists who play a pivotal role in sport wheelchair assessments; these OTs help wheelchair athletes, looking for a chair that delivers functionality and comfort.
Transportation that is wheelchair friendly can require expertise and adjustments that occupational therapists may be specifically trained to give—inspirational stories worth sharing often come with the job. OTs who understand this may be interested in the National Mobility Equipment Dealers Association (NMEDA), and its contest that is looking to feature “local heroes” who thrive and excel in spite of handicap. If you are a therapist who knows someone deserving of a nomination, you can visit NMEDA’s site and enter them in a contest accepting entries throughout the United States and Canada. The prize is a custom wheelchair accessible vehicle.
This excellent idea, one that promotes the understanding that people with disabilities can live active, mobile lifestyles, was conceived of at the 22nd Annual NMEDA Conference in Phoenix; now in its 2nd year, National Mobility Month has been designated in the Congressional Record by the U.S. House of Representatives. If they don’t already know, occupational therapists should learn about NMEDA; it’s a non-profit trade association of hundreds of mobility equipment dealers, manufacturers and driver rehabilitation specialists dedicated to improving transportation options for the disabled.
These are just a few facts occupational therapists might share with patients and the general public that promote awareness for National Mobility Awareness month:
- 6 million Americans with disabilities are veterans.
- People with disabilities constitute the 2nd largest minority in the United States.
- Over 18 million people in the U.S. and Canada have mobility issues and may someday require the expertise of an occupational therapist or other allied health professional.
Helping patients come up with automotive mobility solutions is a big part of OT jobs. For those patients who need guidance differentiating between safe and unreliable vehicles, therapists might consider disseminating information about National Mobility Awareness month and its ties to NMEDA.
Move Forward with Therapy Jobs During Mobility Month and Year Round
If you’re looking to touch the lives of patients in need of rehabilitation and a return to an active and mobile life, American Traveler Allied has rewarding therapy jobs in all 50 U.S. states and would be happy to assist you when you call 1-800-617-0608 or apply online. Moving forward is what we’re all about!
