News & Info

Sweet Relief: How Occupational Therapy Eases Sleep Deprivation and Helps You Drive Again

Occupational therapists (OTs) help people regain independence in daily activities by improving physical, cognitive, and sensory skills through personalized therapy and adaptive strategies. Did you know that Occupational Therapy can also help reduce sleep deprivation and driving after an injury or illness? These two aspects of daily life are critical for maintaining independence and overall well-being. 

How occupational therapy can help with sleep deprivation 

Sleep is essential for overall health, yet many people struggle with sleep disorders or deprivation. Bad sleep impacts cognitive function, mood, and physical well-being. It can contribute to weight gain, higher cholesterol and blood pressure, and increases the risk of heart and other diseases. Fatigue can impair memory and balance, increasing the risk of falls and other safety concerns. Occupational therapists (OTs) can help individuals improve their sleep by identifying underlying causes of sleep disturbances and developing personalized strategies to promote better rest. 

By assessing daily habits, environment, and lifestyle factors, OTs can address the root causes of sleep deprivation. For instance, an OT may work with individuals to establish a consistent sleep routine, reduce environmental disruptions, and modify daily activities that interfere with rest. Research from the Royal College of Occupational Therapists highlights that OTs can recommend adjustments such as reducing screen time before bed, managing stress through relaxation techniques, and optimizing bedroom conditions for comfort and relaxation. 

Studies also show that occupational therapy interventions can improve sleep quality by addressing behavioral and environmental factors. A study published in the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine found that targeted therapy strategies, such as sleep hygiene education and cognitive-behavioral approaches, significantly improved sleep outcomes in individuals with chronic sleep disturbances and fatigue. 

Through personalized therapy plans, lifestyle modifications, and environmental adjustments, occupational therapists can help individuals regain control over their sleep, leading to better energy levels, improved focus, and enhanced overall well-being. 

How Occupational Therapy Can Help Drivers 

Many seniors stop driving in their 70’s and 80’s. Illness, fear, accidents, and physical impairment keep people off of the road. For seniors, not driving is a well-documented barrier to healthcare, social outlets, community, and physical activity which can lead to serious health concerns. Through personalized strategy and rehab plans, some OTs can help get you back behind the wheel. 

OTs who are driver-trained work with people to get them driving again after an acute or traumatic illness or injury. OTs typically assist individuals recovering from a stroke, those with multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, amputations, or other conditions that affect motor function or cognitive abilities. 

OTs assess physical, cognitive, and visual abilities to determine if safe driving is still an option. If safe driving is not a possibility, focus shifts on finding suitable transportation options. If there is a possibility, OTs will create a personalized rehab plan to improve driving skills. Based on the clients’ needs, OT plans for driving could include: 

• Enhancing cognitive and motor skills 

• Skill training for problem-solving, endurance, range of motion, strength, coordination, vision, and more 

• Navigating the community including reading and interpreting signs 

• Using adaptive tools or vehicle modifications 

• Driving simulators 

• Preparing for driving assessments 

Occupational therapy goes beyond assisting with daily tasks—it can enhance sleep quality and even help individuals regain their independence behind the wheel. By focusing on key aspects of daily function, occupational therapy helps individuals stay active, engaged, and in control of their lives. At Community Physical Therapy and Associates, we are dedicated to helping individuals live safer, healthier, and more independent lives. Contact us today to learn how occupational therapy can support you or your loved ones.