What is a potential outcome of effective community-based occupational therapy?

A potential outcome of effective community-based occupational therapy is the reduced reliance on healthcare facilities. This approach emphasizes providing therapy in the client's natural environment, which often leads to better outcomes in terms of independence and functionality. By engaging with clients in their communities, occupational therapists can address barriers to participation in daily activities more effectively, helping clients to develop skills and strategies that can be applied outside clinical settings.

When clients gain confidence and competence in managing their daily activities, they are less likely to need frequent visits to hospitals or rehabilitation centers. This not only enhances their quality of life but also contributes to a more sustainable healthcare system by decreasing overall healthcare costs and resource utilization. Community-based interventions focus on improving clients' abilities and self-management skills, ultimately aiming to minimize their dependence on institutional care.

The other options do not align with the direct outcomes associated with community-based occupational therapy. For instance, while increased use of online therapy resources might occur, it does not specifically reflect the community-based aspect. Similarly, a lesser emphasis on client-defined goals contradicts the core principles of client-centered practice, which is foundational to effective occupational therapy. Improved medication adherence, while important, is not a primary focus of community-based occupational therapy and is more related to pharmaceutical management rather than occupational therapy