Adulthood represents a time of increased independence and a decline in supervision and structure that is prominent in adolescents and childhood. The exact definition of what makes someone an adult is unclear; however, social characterization, changes in occupational engagement and a shift in roles explain the emergence of adulthood. Cronin and Mandich (2016) define the typical age span associated with early adulthood as 21 to 34 years of age. This age period is marked by dramatic life changes as one transitions from adolescence to adulthood. Alternatively, middle adulthood, generally defined by the age span of 35 to 60 years of age, is characterized by stagnant behaviors as individuals continue to …show more content…
S19). Engaging in this occupation involves specific client factors, performance skills, and performance patterns specific to the individual. As occupational therapists, it is crucial to provide holistic, client-centered therapy focusing on the individual’s strengths and weaknesses to improve occupational engagement (Stephenson, 2011). In utilizing the OTPF, occupational therapists can create therapy programs to aid in health management specific to the client. Client factors that serve important for engagement in health management for middle adulthood include changes in body functions. Cronin and Mandich (2016) explain the most common health risks related to body function in middle adulthood. These include hypertension, diabetes, heart disease, cancer, and stress management (Cronin & Mandich, 2016, p. 388). As occupational therapists work with individuals concerning engagement in health management, it is important to focus on the client’s current conditions and risk factors for the for mentioned health concerns. As middle adults age, their risk for health concerns increases. As body functions related to health begin to change for the client, occupational therapists can utilize their strengths and weaknesses to develop a program emphasizing occupational engagement in health …show more content…
Performance patterns utilized in health management, such as routines and habits, are learned in childhood and continually important across the lifespan. As individuals age, routines and habits become second nature as living a healthy lifestyle becomes increasingly important. For example, promoting healthy eating habits and a proper exercise routine throughout childhood and adolescence support healthier habits in middle adulthood when health risks are