โก Quick Summary
A recent Delphi study involving 36 occupational therapy professionals has identified key trends and challenges in the field, emphasizing the integration of virtual reality, artificial intelligence, and telehealth into practice. The findings highlight the need for enhanced digital competencies and culturally responsive practices to address future demands in occupational therapy.
๐ Key Details
- ๐ฅ Participants: 36 occupational therapy professionals (12 academicians, 12 clinicians, 12 interns)
- ๐ Mean Age: 34.5 years (academicians), 31.2 years (clinicians), 23.1 years (interns)
- ๐ง Focus Areas: Future Technologies, Neuroscience Integration, Technology-Based Therapy, Sociocultural Impacts, Innovative Education
- ๐ Methodology: Three-round Delphi study with thematic analysis and Kendall’s W for consensus evaluation
๐ Key Takeaways
- ๐ Virtual and Augmented Reality are crucial for future therapy interventions.
- ๐ค Artificial Intelligence is expected to enhance assessment processes.
- ๐ Telehealth is becoming an integral part of occupational therapy practice.
- ๐ง Neuroplasticity-based interventions are essential for future competence.
- ๐ป Ethical concerns regarding AI and digital literacy barriers need addressing.
- ๐ Innovative educational methods are necessary to prepare future therapists.
- ๐ Culturally responsive practices are vital for inclusivity in therapy.
- ๐ก Digital competencies must be enhanced among therapists.
๐ Background
The field of occupational therapy is undergoing significant transformation due to rapid technological advancements and shifting sociocultural dynamics. Understanding these emerging trends is essential for developing educational programs and health policies that are responsive to the evolving landscape of healthcare.
๐๏ธ Study
This study utilized a three-round Delphi method to gather insights from 36 professionals in occupational therapy, including academicians, clinicians, and final-year interns. The aim was to explore expert perspectives on the future of occupational therapy across five key themes, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities ahead.
๐ Results
The results revealed a strong consensus on the importance of integrating virtual reality, artificial intelligence, and telehealth into occupational therapy practices. Participants also emphasized the significance of neuroplasticity-based interventions and simulation-based learning for enhancing future competencies. Additionally, ethical concerns regarding AI and barriers related to cost and digital literacy were highlighted as critical issues to address.
๐ Impact and Implications
The findings from this study have profound implications for the future of occupational therapy. By embracing new technologies and methodologies, therapists can improve their practice and better meet the needs of diverse populations. The emphasis on digital competencies and culturally responsive practices will ensure that occupational therapy remains relevant and effective in a rapidly changing world.
๐ฎ Conclusion
This Delphi study underscores the transformative potential of technology in occupational therapy. As the field evolves, it is crucial for practitioners to enhance their digital skills and adopt inclusive practices to address the challenges ahead. The future of occupational therapy looks promising, with opportunities for innovation and improved patient care on the horizon.
๐ฌ Your comments
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Future trends and challenges in occupational therapy: Insights from a Delphi study.
Abstract
INTRODUCTION: Occupational therapy is evolving rapidly due to technological advances and demographic and sociocultural changes. Recognizing emerging trends is fundamental to developing responsive educational programs, evidence-based practices, and adaptive health policies. This study explores expert perspectives across five themes: (1) Future Technologies, (2) Neuroscience and Biotechnology Integration, (3) Technology-Based Therapy Approaches, (4) Sociocultural and Demographic Impacts, and (5) Innovative Educational Methods.
METHOD: A three-round Delphi study was conducted with 36 occupational therapy professionals. The sample included 12 academicians (mean age (M)โ=โ34.5, 67% female), 12 clinicians (Mโ=โ31.2, 75% female), and 12 final-year interns (Mโ=โ23.1, 92% female). The mean professional experience was 6.0โyears for academicians and 5.8โyears for clinicians. Thematic analysis and Kendall’s W were used to evaluate consensus.
RESULTS: Participants emphasized the importance of integrating virtual reality/augmented reality interventions, artificial intelligence-supported assessments, and telehealth into occupational therapy practice. Neuroplasticity-based interventions and simulation-based learning were highlighted for future competence. Ethical concerns regarding artificial intelligence, as well as cost and digital literacy barriers, were also noted.
CONCLUSION: To meet future challenges, occupational therapists should enhance digital competencies, ensure accessibility, and develop inclusive, culturally responsive practices. Findings inform clinical, educational, and policy strategies in occupational therapy.
Author: [‘รnal G’, ‘รzdemir TE’]
Journal: Br J Occup Ther
Citation: รnal G and รzdemir TE. Future trends and challenges in occupational therapy: Insights from a Delphi study. Future trends and challenges in occupational therapy: Insights from a Delphi study. 2026; 89:102-115. doi: 10.1177/03080226251368235