Occupational therapy offers a comprehensive approach to help individuals with Alzheimer’s live as independently and safely as possible.
Daily Living Skills: Activities such as meal preparation, dressing, bathing, and personal care are simplified with step-by-step guidance and visual cues, helping preserve dignity and self-esteem.
Cognitive Rehabilitation: Memory games, structured conversations, and daily calendar use stimulate attention and memory, easing forgetfulness and confusion.
Environmental Modifications: Improved lighting, strategic furniture placement, and color contrasts reduce fall risks and support orientation in the home environment.
Occupational therapy supports not only the person with Alzheimer’s but also their caregivers. Therapists provide coaching on stress management, communication strategies, and home safety, helping families maintain a sustainable caregiving routine. This dual focus reduces emotional strain and strengthens the patient–caregiver relationship.
Dr. Beyza Aslı Bilsel, a neuroscientist and occupational therapy specialist, explains, “Starting occupational therapy early preserves functional abilities and improves caregivers’ quality of life. Therapy sessions planned immediately after diagnosis can slow cognitive decline and extend independence for as long as possible.”
The 2025 World Alzheimer’s Day theme, “Early Diagnosis and Support,” encourages everyone to recognize risk factors, schedule regular cognitive screenings, and seek professional occupational therapy services. Specialists emphasize that memory loss, disorientation, and behavioral changes should never be ignored and that seeking help at the first signs is crucial.
Across Türkiye, universities and nonprofit organizations are hosting seminars, public information sessions, and awareness walks to highlight that Alzheimer’s is not just an individual challenge but a shared social responsibility.
In summary, while medication alone is not enough, occupational therapy stands out as a scientifically proven approach that enhances the lives of people with Alzheimer’s and their families. Early diagnosis, consistent follow-up, and comprehensive occupational therapy can help individuals maintain independence, safety, and dignity for as long as possible.
