224ZF0002X Feeding, Eating & Swallowing Occupational Therapy Assistant
- Definition
- Occupational therapy assistants provide environmental modifications under the supervision of an occupational therapist. OTAs develop and implement an individualized occupational therapy environmental modification plan that reflects the relevant contexts of the client and relevant others and maximizes current and future occupational performance, safety, and participation of the client. Clients receive environmental modification recommendations and interventions that enable them to meet occupational performance and participation goals and that have adequate flexibility to accommodate for their future needs.
- Classification
- Occupational Therapy Assistant
- Specialization
- Feeding, Eating & Swallowing
- Section
- Individual
- Notes
- Source: The Guide to Occupational Therapy Practice, 2nd edition. Bethesda: American Occupational Therapy Association, 2007. [7/1/2008: new] Additional Resources: The American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA) does offer voluntary specialty certification for a Feeding, Eating & Swallowing Occupational Therapy Assistant if the applicant meets the following requirements: <ul> <li>Professional or technical degree or equivalent in occupational therapy. <li>Certified or licensed by and in good standing with an AOTA recognized credentialing or regulatory body. <li>Minimum of 2,000 hours of experience as an occupational therapist or occupational therapy assistant. <li>600 hours of experience delivering occupational therapy services in the certification area to clients (individuals, groups, or populations) in the last 3 calendar years. Service delivery may be paid or voluntary. <li>Verification of employment. </ul>AOTA Website: Specialty Certifications; AOTA Specialized Knowledge and Skills Paper: Feeding, Eating and Swallowing in Occupational Therapy Practice, 2007; AOTA Fact Sheets: OT: A Vital Role in Dysphagia Care
Related Taxonomies
Other Specializations
224ZR0403X
Driving and Community Mobility
An occupational therapy assistant who helps people improve their ability to drive and get around safely in the community. They work with clients to assess driving skills, provide training and practice in real-life settings, and support safe transportation options. Patients can expect help with regaining independence after illness or injury, managing age-related changes, and addressing concerns related to memory, vision, or physical abilities that affect driving and mobility.
224ZE0001X
Environmental Modification
A healthcare professional who works with patients to make changes to their home, work, or school environments to improve safety and independence. Under the supervision of an occupational therapist, they help identify barriers, recommend adaptive equipment, and arrange spaces to support people with disabilities, injuries, or aging-related challenges. Patients can expect personalized plans to make daily activities easier and safer, such as installing grab bars, ramps, or modifying furniture layouts.
224ZL0004X
Low Vision
A medical professional who helps people with low vision improve their ability to perform daily activities safely and independently. Working under the supervision of an occupational therapist, they teach practical skills and adaptive techniques for tasks like reading, cooking, and personal care. They commonly support patients with vision loss from conditions such as macular degeneration, glaucoma, or diabetic retinopathy, focusing on maximizing remaining vision and enhancing quality of life.