OT 425 Caregivers of Young Children

I read an article recently in "OT Practice" about caregivers of young children. Caregivers focus on caring for those with disability or illness, and caregivers of young children may experience a decline in their physical and mental health. Caregiving is considered an iADL, and becoming a caregiver can bring about a change in their role, routines, and habits, which results in a change in their occupational performance. Work, leisure, and sleep may be interrupted, and these are all things that were an important part of their daily routine before. If the caregiver of a young child experiences a decrease in physical and mental health, then that can also negatively impact the health of the child. Because occupational therapists are holistic and client-centered, we are able to address the needs of caregivers. By looking at the caregivers needs, occupational therapists can improve participation in meaningful occupations, help the caregiver prevent or mange symptoms of mental illness, and improve physical comfort when caring for a child. The priorities of the caregiver also change when caring for a young child. New mothers have an increased risk for a decline in physical health due to forceful exertion, such as picking a baby up out of a crib. Repetition of movements, like rocking and burping a baby, and awkward positioning during bathing and feeding time can result in musculoskeletal disorders. This musculoskeletal pain can therefore negatively impact a caregivers occupational performance. Caregivers will sometimes ignore discomfort until it becomes too much to handle. As occupational therapists, it is important for us to show caregivers good body mechanics, childcare equipment, and environmental modifications that can result in improved occupational performance for the caregiver, as well as safety for both the caregiver and the young child.