The meaning of occupation, occupational need, and occupational therapy in a military context

Despite occupational therapists having strong historical ties to the Canadian military, there are currently no uniformed occupational therapists and only a few permanent occupational therapists employed by Canadian Forces. Occupational therapy is provided, in the main, through civilian occupational therapists. Occupational therapists have unique skills that can contribute to the existing Canadian Forces Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Services Department. To establish the depth and scope of their work, this article explains the theoretical underpinnings of occupational therapy. Examples are provided of possible occupational therapy for populations of Canadian Forces members: (1) those with transient, intermittent injuries; (2) those returning from overseas missions with very serious injuries or severe injuries; and (3) those with permanent injuries who are transitioning from the Canadian Forces into the civilian workforce. Interventions for mental health issues are interwoven with those targeting physical issues. The article suggests that occupational therapists employed on a permanent basis by the Canadian Forces can contribute in a more comprehensive manner to the wider rehabilitation of Canadian Forces members. The article has applicability to occupational therapy military services in other countries.