The Role of Occupational Therapy in Promoting Independence among Children with Intellectual Disabilities

Abstract

Occupational therapy is a form of intervention provided to children with physical, mental, and cognitive limitations to improve their abilities perform daily activities independently. This study aims to determine the application of occupational therapy on the development of independence in children with intellectual disabilities and the differences in the development of independence in two research subjects at the Samarinda Autism Service Center. This study used a qualitative approach with data collection techniques in the form of observation, semi-structured interviews, and documentation. The research subjects consisted of two children with intellectual disabilities aged 7–10 years who were selected using purposive sampling. The results of the study indicate that occupational therapy plays a positive role in increasing the independence of children with intellectual disabilities, particularly in the aspect of self-care such as eating, using writing instruments, and toileting. Differences in the levels of Independence development is influenced by the duration of therapy and parental support at home.