A patient with multiple sclerosis is referred for training in activities of daily living and use of adaptive devices; which professional should see the patient?

A patient with multiple sclerosis is referred for training in activities of daily living and use of adaptive devices; which professional should see the patient?

• A. Social worker
• B. Orthotist
• C. Occupational therapist
• D. Home health nurse

Answer: (C)

The ability to help a patient regain independence in daily activities and to choose or fit adaptive equipment is a hallmark of occupational therapy. An occupational therapist evaluates how MS affects performance in dressing, bathing, eating, toileting, and functional tasks, then teaches strategies, energy-conserving techniques, and safety practices. They also assess the need for and fit devices that compensate for weakness, tremor, or coordination problems, and can modify the home environment to support independence. While other professionals have important roles—social workers focus on psychosocial support and resources, orthotists design braces, and home health nurses provide medical care—the specialized training of an occupational therapist makes them the best match for ADL training and adaptive device use in this scenario.

The ability to help a patient regain independence in daily activities and to choose or fit adaptive equipment is a hallmark of occupational therapy. An occupational therapist evaluates how MS affects performance in dressing, bathing, eating, toileting, and functional tasks, then teaches strategies, energy-conserving techniques, and safety practices. They also assess the need for and fit devices that compensate for weakness, tremor, or coordination problems, and can modify the home environment to support independence. While other professionals have important roles—social workers focus on psychosocial support and resources, orthotists design braces, and home health nurses provide medical care—the specialized training of an occupational therapist makes them the best match for ADL training and adaptive device use in this scenario.