What are preparatory activities in occupational therapy?

Preparatory activities in occupational therapy are designed specifically to prepare clients for purposeful and occupation-based activities. These activities are fundamental in the therapeutic process as they help clients develop the skills and capabilities necessary to engage fully in meaningful tasks. By focusing on the client's specific needs and abilities, these preparatory activities can include exercises that enhance strength, mobility, coordination, or cognitive function, all of which serve as a foundation for more complex tasks and activities relevant to the client's daily life.

In this context, the aim of preparatory activities is to facilitate functional outcomes, meaning that they are carefully selected to align with the client's goals and the occupations they aim to engage in. By effectively bridging the gap between basic skill development and real-world application, preparatory activities play a critical role in the overall therapeutic strategy employed by occupational therapists.