ABSTRACT
This chapter explores the history of occupational therapy (OT) and describes the many ways that occupational therapists (OTs) work with our military. It informs practitioners of the breadth of services that OTs can perform in the goal of supporting the military as they transition to civilian life. The role of OT in the military has expanded and grown since the Federal Board for Vocational Education first advocated the use of the therapy in 1918. Unique to the military population, command and battle buddies as a support system may be utilized as a therapeutic tool. The OT practitioner will ask questions about how the Veteran or service member is achieving his or her goals related to activities of daily living (ADLs) and instrumental activities of daily living (IADLs), rest and sleep, education, work, play, leisure, and social participation. OTs are essential rehabilitation professionals in assisting individuals with traumatic brain injury to reintegrate back into the community.
