CAOT Position Statement: Aging in Place

The Canadian Association of Occupational Therapists recognizes the impact of a person’s environment - the physical, social, and attitudinal environments in which people live and conduct their lives (WHO 2001:8,10) on participation in valued activities, and that occupational therapists have a distinct role in seniors’ care and facilitating aging in place in a setting of their choice. CAOT acknowledges the diversity amongst seniors and considers the full spectrum of client needs and capabilities, thus negating a “one size fits all” approach to aging in place. A client-centred approach is taken whereby clients are understood as individuals as well as being part of families, organizations, community groups and other groups, and as such recognizes the importance of both the home and community aspects of aging in place. Occupational
justice underpins this position statement, where all people have the opportunities, resources, and rights to engage in meaningful occupations to meet both intrinsic needs and societal expectations (Townsend & Wilcox, 2004; Wilcox & Townsend, 2000).The World Health Organization’s Age-Friendly Communities model is used to guide this holistic approach to aging in place and this Position Statement provides guidance for occupational therapists looking
to expand their practice in the areas identified in the framework.