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Supporting Daily Life: Occupational Therapy at MLHS
April 28, 2026
April is Occupational Therapy Month, a time to recognize the important role occupational therapists (OTs) play in helping people of all ages live more independently and safely. Occupational therapy focuses on helping individuals participate more fully in the activities that are meaningful in their daily lives, including self-care, work, school, leisure, and social participation. Therapists help individuals regain or maintain the skills needed for everyday tasks, such as dressing, bathing, cooking, or returning to work after an illness or injury. They also support cognitive and emotional health by addressing memory, attention, problem-solving, and emotional regulation, which can be impacted by conditions such as stroke, brain injury, or mental health challenges.
At Mille Lacs Health System, we are excited to share that our Occupational Therapy team is growing. We are pleased to welcome Karen Goetzfridt-Gidney, OTR/L who joins Laura Bly, MA, OTR/L, CLT to expand access to care in our community. Both providers serve patients across all care settings, including inpatient, outpatient, long-term care, and home care. While both offer a broad range of services, they also bring specialized expertise that strengthens the team. Karen has extensive experience in pediatrics, while Laura is certified in lymphedema management.
Lymphedema is a condition that causes swelling, often in the arms or legs, due to a buildup of lymph fluid. It can occur after cancer treatment, surgery, or other medical conditions that affect the lymphatic system. Certified lymphedema therapists, like Laura, are specially trained to manage this condition through techniques such as manual lymph drainage, compression therapy, exercise, and patient education to help reduce swelling and prevent complications.
For children, occupational therapy plays an important role in development, including pediatric-focused care. Services may focus on motor skills, coordination, sensory integration, and school-related tasks like handwriting, organization, and attention. Therapy is often play-based and tailored to help children build the skills they need to succeed at home and in school.
Occupational therapy also helps individuals age safely and independently. This may include fall prevention, home safety evaluations, and recommendations for assistive devices. The goal is to help people remain in the least restrictive environment for as long as possible, maintaining independence and confidence in their daily routines.
Many people are surprised to learn about the wide range of services occupational therapists provide. In addition to traditional therapy, OTs at Mille Lacs Health System offer driving evaluations to assess safety and readiness to remain on or return to the road. They can assist with medication management strategies to improve safety and consistency, especially for individuals managing multiple prescriptions. Seating and mobility assessments help ensure proper positioning and comfort for those using wheelchairs or other mobility devices. OTs also design and fit custom splints to support healing, reduce pain, and improve function.
A key part of occupational therapy is adapting activities and environments to fit each person’s needs. This may include recommending home modifications such as removing tripping hazards, installing grab bars, or rearranging spaces for better accessibility. Therapists also suggest tools and techniques that make daily tasks safer and easier.
Occupational therapy is personalized and holistic. Care is centered on what matters most to each patient, with practical, meaningful goals that support real-life outcomes.
To learn more about occupational therapy services or to schedule an appointment, contact the Rehab Department at Mille Lacs Health System at 320-532-2520.