The development of occupations across the lifespan

Abstract

Engagement in occupations commences in early infancy, and occupational roles and identities develop and change across the lifespan. The play environment can either inhibit or facilitate play opportunities, and occupational therapists often adapt the play environment to facilitate play so as not to disrupt the play transaction. Playing and engaging in leisure activities remain lifelong occupations, albeit they take on a different shape during adulthood. During early childhood, the role of the occupational therapist would be to work with the parents to promote positive parent–child interactions. Self-care and instrumental daily activities include occupations focused on caring for one’s own body and on occupations required to manage one’s home and community. The role of occupational therapists in developing the skills involved in dressing emerges when children are about two to three years of age. Work is arguably the main occupation during adulthood, particularly during midlife.