OT in the Home: Managing Chronic Pain and Fatigue

Video Runtime: 47 Minutes; Learning Assessment Time: 46 Minutes

Chronic pain and fatigue are two of the most common—and most disabling—conditions impacting clients in their homes. These conditions disrupt daily routines, limit engagement in meaningful activities, and increase the risk for deconditioning, depression, and hospitalization. Occupational therapy practitioners are uniquely positioned to address these challenges using holistic, function-based approaches that promote self-management and participation. This course provides practical strategies for assessing and treating chronic pain and fatigue in the home, including evidence-based assessments, patient-centered goal development, and interventions focused on energy conservation, activity pacing, and environmental modification. Emphasis is placed on mental health, self-efficacy, and collaboration with care partners. Designed for OTs working in home health, outpatient care, or community-based practices, this course supports clinicians in improving safety, independence, and quality of life for clients living with chronic conditions.

Learning Objectives

• Identify common pain mechanisms and psychological factors contributing to chronic pain in clients receiving home-based occupational therapy
• Recognize three evidence-informed occupational therapy strategies that can support pain management and functional participation
• List client education topics that promote self-management of chronic pain, including activity pacing, body mechanics, and stress reduction
• Select client-centered goals that support engagement in meaningful occupations such as dressing, cooking, or caregiving while living with chronic pain