Charting a human-Centered future: AI's promise and challenges for occupational therapy

BackgroundArtificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly transforming society, including work, healthcare, and research, thereby reshaping the future of occupational therapy.ObjectiveThis editorial explores the implications of AI for occupational therapy across scientific publishing, clinical practice, education, and research.MethodsThe reflections draw on emerging literature and discussion from the 2026 WFOT Congress AI Symposium, integrating perspectives from practice, education, and research.ResultsAI creates both new opportunities and tensions across occupational therapy. It influences how knowledge is produced and communicated, challenges assumptions about efficiency and professional practice, and raises concerns about learning integrity and clinical reasoning. At the same time, it invites a shift in research focus toward broader outcomes, including compassion, equity, accessibility, and context. Across domains, these developments highlight the need to critically examine how AI shapes the future of occupational therapy.ConclusionsOccupational therapy is uniquely positioned and must actively engage in shaping the development and implementation of AI in ways that remain aligned with professional values, including social, environmental, and occupational justice. Such engagement is essential to ensure that these technologies enhance rather than undermine human lives and everyday occupations.