What is the primary role of an occupational therapist?

An occupational therapist primarily focuses on helping patients develop, recover, or maintain the skills needed for daily living and work. This includes activities such as personal care tasks, social interactions, and functional mobility. Occupational therapists assess patients' abilities and tailor therapeutic interventions to promote independence and improve quality of life through meaningful activities.

While the surgical procedures are typically performed by surgeons, and diagnosing and managing medication falls under the responsibilities of medical doctors or nurses, the emotional support aspect is often part of various health care roles but not the primary function of occupational therapy. Therefore, the correct choice accurately reflects the main objective of occupational therapy within the health care context, which is to empower individuals to participate in everyday life through enhanced skills and adaptations to their environments.