Roles of Occupational Therapists: Disaster Preparedness and Recovery
BY Peggy Grill, OTD, OTR/L | 5 MIN READ
Occupational therapy (OT) is emerging as a leading health care profession, steadily expanding its reach, impact and recognition. Expected to grow by 11% from 2023 to 2030, the field is advancing faster than many comparable careers. This momentum reflects not only the profession’s increasing demand but also its dynamic and impactful nature.
Occupational therapists combine evidence-based practices with creative problem-solving abilities, serving as catalysts for positive change while making meaningful differences in individual lives and broader communities (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2025).
Evolving Opportunities in Occupational Therapy
The field of occupational therapy is continually adapting to meet the demands of a shifting societal and environmental landscape. While traditional settings—such as hospitals, skilled nursing facilities, outpatient clinics, early intervention programs and schools—remain integral to practice, emerging global challenges are opening new avenues for occupational therapists (OTs).
In particular, the increasing frequency and severity of natural disasters and complex emergencies—both nationally and globally—present occupational therapists with innovative and dynamic opportunities to expand their roles in care and intervention. Since the 1990s, the frequency and intensity of these disasters and emergencies have increased drastically (O’Keefe & Rose, 2017).
How Occupational Therapists Support Disaster Preparedness
OTs, skilled in client-centered care, task analysis and environmental considerations, are uniquely positioned to navigate these complex situations. With a foundation embedded in creativity, adaptability and evidence-based practice, OTs approach disaster environments with a holistic perspective that addresses both immediate and long-term needs. Key contributions include:
- Evacuation planning and preparedness: Helping individuals with chronic health conditions plan for evacuation, manage essential supplies and identify accessible transportation and nearby medical facilities.
- Restoring daily routines: Reestablishing access to essential activities of daily living (ADLs) and instrumental activities of daily living (IADLs), such as bathing, dressing, medication management and meal preparation.
- Reducing stress and trauma: Offering interventions that ease emotional burdens by creating manageable routines and supporting autonomy during upheaval.
- Navigating financial recovery: Assisting in assessing recovery options and accessing resources to minimize the long-term impact of disasters.
These proactive strategies can significantly reduce the chaos and health risks individuals face during emergencies—especially for vulnerable populations.
How OTs Address Mental Health in Post-Disaster Recovery
Natural disasters and complex emergencies introduce a host of challenges. Among these are trauma and a range of mental and psychological health concerns. Given occupational therapy’s deep roots in mental health, practitioners are well-versed in trauma-informed care, active and intentional listening and addressing psychosocial needs. Since its inception, the OT profession has championed the therapeutic value of engaging in meaningful daily activities to support and enhance mental well-being. Through therapeutic approaches, OTs empower individuals to rebuild routines, restore a sense of purpose and strengthen self-efficacy. Strategies that promote self-regulation, resilience and coping mechanisms can be instrumental in helping survivors navigate the unpredictable nature of post-disaster life (Dubrinz et al., 2023).
Enhancing Community Resilience Through OT
Occupational therapists are integral members of disaster relief teams. Their biomechanical knowledge and environmental expertise make them invaluable in:
- Teaching the use of assistive technologies and mobility devices
- Designing or modifying emergency shelters for accessibility
- Identifying and eliminating environmental barriers to promote safety and function
Their commitment to cultural humility ensures that interventions are respectful of each individual’s values, customs and community context—further enhancing long-term outcomes.
The Future of Occupational Therapy: Creative, Compassionate and Community-Focused
Occupational therapy remains a dynamic and rapidly expanding profession committed to supporting the meaningful occupations of individuals, groups, and communities. OTs recognize the inherent worth of every person and uphold the principles of occupational justice. Grounded in scientific evidence-based practices and exhibiting a flair for creativity, adaptability, and an optimistic outlook, the profession brings a unique and compassionate perspective to care and recovery across a variety of settings and circumstances.
Discover how the master of occupational therapy program at Elmhurst University can help you learn the skills you need to make a difference at elmhurst.edu/MOT.
Margaret (Peggy) Grill, OTD, OTR/L, earned her Bachelor of Science degree in occupational therapy from the University of Illinois at Chicago in 1992, and her post-professional doctorate degree in 2021 from the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences. Her doctorate concentration was in higher education with a specialization in leadership skills. Peggy’s research capstone studied the current role of school-based occupational therapists in educational literacy efforts with implications for broader practices.
