Shannon D. Smith, OT-RL

Gerontology Occupational Therapist

Ms. Shannon D. Smith is a Gerontology Occupational Therapist in Wilson, NC 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, Shannon D. Smith, 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.

Driving and Community Mobility Occupational Therapist

Ms. Shannon D. Smith is a Driving and Community Mobility Occupational Therapist in Wilson, NC with special training and skill in enabling participation in daily activities. As a Driving and Community Mobility Occupational Therapist, Shannon D. Smith, OT-RL performs services for patients of all ages in schools, hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and nursing homes. Driving and Community Mobility Occupational Therapy is the assessment and improvement of conditions that hinder patients' driving skills and ability to travel around their community safely. Significant diseases and conditions treated by Driving and Community Mobility Occupational Therapists include visual disorders, developmental disabilities, injuries, and neurodegenerative diseases. Medical tests, procedures and therapies provided by Driving and Community Mobility Occupational Therapists include patient evaluation, driving education, strength and motion restoration, and alternative transportation planning.

Occupational therapists can optimize and prolong an older driver's ability to drive safely and ease the transition to other forms of transportation if driving cessation becomes necessary. By identifying strengths as well as physical or cognitive challenges, occupational therapists can evaluate an individual's overall ability to operate a vehicle safely and recommend assistive devices or behavioral changes to limit risks. Occupational therapy practitioners offer a continuum of services related to community mobility, from evaluation of driving performance, through counseling and support for lifestyle changes, to maintaining independence and quality of life.