In the context of occupational therapy, what does "functional independence" refer to?

Functional independence refers to an individual's ability to carry out activities of daily living (ADLs) on their own, without the need for assistance from others. This concept is central to occupational therapy as it directly relates to improving a person's quality of life by enabling them to maintain autonomy and engage in everyday tasks such as dressing, bathing, and meal preparation independently.

Achieving functional independence is a primary goal in therapeutic settings, as it empowers clients to live more fulfilling lives with a greater sense of control over their own routines. It reflects the effectiveness of the therapy provided in terms of enhancing the client's skills and helping them adapt to their personal limitations.

In contrast, the other options depict scenarios that either do not align with independence or are not relevant to the primary goal of occupational therapy. The need for constant supervision or the comprehension of therapy sessions does not pertain to an individual’s ability to function independently in daily life. Additionally, focusing solely on advanced therapy clients neglects the broader aim of occupational therapy, which is to support individuals at various levels of ability.