Life After Service: How Occupational Therapy Supports Veterans
As veterans transition to civilian life, they often encounter a multitude of challenges that can impact their well-being and daily functioning. Symmetry Rehab is honoured to serve our veterans through Veterans Affairs Canada (VAC), with a mission to provide Occupational Therapy (OT) services that support veterans and their families through this critical period of adjustment and beyond.
The Role of an Occupational Therapist:
Occupational therapists (OTs) play a pivotal role in helping veterans overcome physical, cognitive, and mental health challenges experienced post-service. OTs are professionals dedicated to assisting individuals of all ages in overcoming obstacles that hinder their engagement in meaningful daily activities. We aim to enhance your overall health and wellness by enabling increased participation in activities that hold significance to you. Whether its addressing challenges encountered at home, in the workplace, or within the community, OTs collaborate with you to navigate life after service.
Guided by trauma-informed principles, we approach our care with empathy and understanding, recognizing the impact of past experiences on current function. Additionally, our commitment to family-centered care ensures that loved ones are integral partners in the therapeutic journey, fostering a supportive environment for the path forward.
We understand that accessing care can be challenging to some. That’s why we offer community-based services. We meet clients in their homes, workplaces, schools, gyms and communities to ensure convenient and accessible care. As occupational therapists, we love to support our clients to live, work and play in the environments that they live, work and play.
OT Services for Veterans:
Our OT services are individualized to meet the specific needs of veterans. Here are some of the key services and supports we offer, under contract with VAC:
- Home Modifications
- Prescriptions for Adaptive Equipment and Mobility Devices
- Chronic Pain Management
- Cognitive Rehabilitation for Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)
- Mental Health Support for PTSD, Anxiety, and Depression
- Substance Abuse and Addiction
- Creating/Improving Desired Routines and Habits
- Managing Social Isolation and Loneliness
Depending on needs and challenges identified together, OTs will work with you to:
- Make recommendations for environmental changes, such as the physical layout of your home or workspace to optimize function.
- Recommend assistive devices or equipment and provide guidance for safe and independent use.
- Optimize physical, cognitive and emotional capabilities for daily living.
- Address barriers through education, problem-solving and task adaptation.
Understanding the Journey:
We understand the unique challenges that veterans and their families face during the transition to civilian life. Moreover, we deeply appreciate the inherent value of each individual’s strengths, rich history, and life experiences. Our experienced occupational therapists integrate these elements to deliver interventions that foster resilience, enhance both physical and mental health and instill a sense of purpose.
Referring a Veteran:
If you are a veteran or a VAC Case Manager, reach out to discuss services and referral process.
Areas Served: We provide services all across Metro Vancouver, Fraser Valley and Central Vancouver Island