Article by Carmenita Dampies
Engaging in activity and occupation play a large role within the Occupational Therapy field. This refers to the different experiences and performances of personally valued activities within different areas of daily life. In the field of Occupational Therapy fostering engagement in occupations is crucial for health, well-being, and a sense of purpose to an individual’s existence. In achieving this meaningful role, it is important to provide quality assistive and technology devices service delivery to people with various special needs. Occupational Therapy Assistants/Technicians have been responsible in providing this role for decades and the driving force behind education and training of assistive and technology devices to people with different needs within the OT profession. Introducing these supportive assistive devices not only enhances optimal activity and participation with different categories of needs but also supports reintegration within a society where normality includes people with different types of disabilities.
The adverse effects of inappropriate or non-customized provision of assistive devices and technology range from limited or reduced activity participation to harmful complications and are therefore crucial to ensure that education is done according to standard and individual need. Optimal quality assistive devices, technology and training services must be client-centred, community-based, and culturally congruent and form part of the continuum of care throughout the life span of the client.
The role of the OTA/OTT not only includes understanding the specifications and function of different assistive and technological devices but also includes fitting the devices to ensure it is customised according to the need, and that education and training is done to ensure that the client understands the use and complications. It also ensures that the client is comfortable and satisfied with the product.
Last Updated on 24 October 2025 by HPCSA Corporate Affairs