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Promoting an occupational perspective in public health
Sandra E Moll1, Rebecca E Gewurtz, Terry M Krupa
1School of Rehabilitation Science, McMaster University, Institute of Applied Health Sciences, 1400 Main St. West, Hamilton, Ontario L8S 1C7, Canada. molls@mcmaster.ca
Summary
Occupational therapists offer unique insights into public health, emphasizing how daily activities (occupation) promote health and well-being for Canadians. Integrating this perspective can enhance public health strategies and messaging.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Occupational Science
Background:
- The fundamental value of occupation for health and well-being is central to occupational therapy.
- This crucial perspective is often underrecognized within the broader field of public health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To advocate for the integration of occupational therapy's unique perspective into public health.
- To highlight the significance of occupational engagement for the health and well-being of the Canadian population.
Main Methods:
- This study presents an argument for the value of occupational therapy in public health.
- It reviews the potential benefits and challenges of incorporating occupational engagement into public health initiatives.
Main Results:
- Occupational engagement offers significant health benefits for individuals and communities.
- Key challenges include standardizing terminology, understanding the complexity of occupation, and addressing multidimensional outcomes and diverse evidence.
Conclusions:
- The Canadian occupational therapy profession must refine its health promotion messages.
- Messaging should effectively communicate the complexity and value of occupation to resonate with diverse Canadian populations.
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