Anyone can benefit from the services of an occupational therapist, but an OT can play a significant role in the lives of people with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD). According to the American Occupational Therapy Association, individuals with IDD have “limited cognitive capacities and adaptive behaviors” that curtail their participation in typical daily activities.

As a result, people with IDD “exhibit less community participation, fewer social relationships, and lower leisure and employment participation” than those without. However, that doesn’t mean that they are any less willing or deserving of these things. With additional opportunities and support, people with IDD are more than capable of participating in community activities.And when they live and actively participate in the community, there is an overwhelmingly positive effect for all involved. Not only does it improve their socialization abilities and personal growth, it also helps them adapt more fully to an integrated adult lifestyle.

That’s where occupational therapists come in. It is their role as a rehabilitative professional to help oversee community integration through various age/ability-appropriate and interest-targeted activities. For a younger person, this may mean focusing on school, home, and recreation, whereas for an adult, it may be involve assistance with employment, home management, leisure, and social activities.