In occupational therapy, what does the term "occupation" primarily refer to?

In occupational therapy, "occupation" primarily refers to the activities that bring meaning and purpose to individuals' lives. This encompasses a wide range of daily activities that people engage in, such as personal care, work, leisure, and social participation. The focus on occupation emphasizes the relevance of these activities in contributing to an individual's overall well-being and identity. Through engaging in meaningful occupations, individuals can enhance their quality of life, foster independence, and achieve personal goals.

Occupational therapists assess how well clients are able to perform these occupations and may develop interventions to facilitate better engagement in their meaningful activities. This understanding is foundational in occupational therapy practice, as it is through the engagement in these occupations that clients can lead fulfilling lives.