When people hear “Occupational Therapy”, they often think it is only for children or for people recovering from major injuries.
Many adults work with occupational therapists because everyday life has quietly become harder than it should be.
Most people don’t plan to see an OT. They reach out when day-to-day tasks start taking more effort, feel less safe, or affect their confidence and independence.
Here are five common signs it might be time to consider occupational therapy support.
1. Everyday tasks feel harder than they used to
If activities like showering, dressing, or cooking are taking longer, causing frustration, or feeling physically exhausting, that’s often one of the first signs people seek OT support.
Occupational therapists assess:
- how a task is to be done
- the environment it happens in
- what small changes could make it easier or safer
Occupational Therapy is not about doing more – it’s about doing things differently and more sustainably.
2. You’re worried about safety at home
Many adults contact an OT because they’re starting to feel less steady or less confident at home, even without a fall.
Signs include:
- feeling unsteady in shower
- struggling with stairs
- moving too quickly to complete tasks due to pain or fatigue
- navigating messy or poorly lit places
Occupational therapy focuses on preventing problems before they happen, not waiting until someone gets hurt.
3. Fatigue or pain is affecting daily life
Persistent fatigue or pain that doesn’t go away can quietly impact routines, energy levels and participation in everyday activities.
An occupational therapist can help by:
- looking at how energy is used across the day
- adjusting routines to reduce strain
- recommending assistive technology or practical supports that make daily tasks safer and more manageable
The goal is sustainable living, not just pushing through.
4. Getting out in the community feels harder
You might be going out less, avoiding errands, or relying more on others to get around. Causes might include:
- physical barriers
- transport challenges
- fatigue or safety concerns
- lower confidence
OTs help people to remain engaged in community life by practical solutions to real-world barriers.
5. You want to stay independent
Many people worry that accepting support means giving up independence. In truth, occupational therapy is about enhancing control and autonomy.
OTs work with people to:
- maintain independence
- build confidence in daily routines
- support what matters most to individuals
It’s not about taking over. It’s about making everyday life safer and easier.
How Occupational Therapy Can Help
Occupational therapists consider the whole picture – the person, their routines, and their environment.
Support might include:
- practical strategies for daily tasks
- home safety recommendations
- assistive equipment where appropriate
- routine adjustments to reduce fatigue or risk
Small changes often lead to big differences.
When to Reach Out
If these signs feel familiar, it doesn’t mean something is wrong. It simply means you might benefit from extra support.
At McCall, our occupational therapists work alongside adults, families, and carers to find practical solutions that support safe, confident, and independent living.
Unsure whether OT is the right fit? Our team can help you explore your options and next steps.
Talk to our team today — we’ll help you find the right support, every step of the way.
- Ready to get started? Click the button below to fill out our contact form — it only takes a minute, and we’ll be in touch to help you find the right support.
- Alternatively you can;
- Call us on (02) 9679 1031 or;
- Drop us an email: [email protected]