Melissa Peterson, OT-RL

Gerontology Occupational Therapist

Ms. Melissa Peterson is a Gerontology Occupational Therapist in Laconia, NH with special training and skill in increasing the quality of life and independence of patients with disabilities, trauma, or sicknesses that restrict their ability to perform simple and complex everyday activities. As a Gerontology Occupational Therapist, Melissa Peterson, OT-RL performs ability assessments, fall prevention environmental modifications, safe movement strategies, longevity education, and emotional support. Gerontology Occupational Therapy is used to help the elderly stay as functional and independent as possible. Significant diseases and conditions treated by Gerontology Occupational Therapists include arthritis, hearing loss, vision loss, balance loss, post-stroke paralysis, ALS, dementia, and Alzheimer's. Medical tests, procedures and therapies provided by Gerontology Occupational Therapists include identifying patientu2019s weaknesses, strengths, and risk factors; assessing cognitive function which affects the ability to learn new, safer ways of doing daily tasks; and crafting environment modification and physical therapy protocols.

Occupational therapists work with older adults in virtually every setting: assisted living, wellness programs, hospitals, nursing homes, senior centers, clinics and in the home. Occupational therapists bring an understanding of the importance of participation and occupation for overall well-being to those who are experiencing disabling conditions related to aging. The primary overarching goal of occupational therapy services with this population is to maximize independence and participation, thereby enabling an older person to continue to live successfully in his or her chosen environment. Occupational therapists can help older adults by developing strategies to help or maintain safety and well-being, to assist with life transitions, and to compensate for challenges they experience in activities of daily living, instrumental activities of daily living, leisure participation, social participation, and productive activities.