Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is an Occupational Therapist (OT)?
“Occupation” means the everyday activities that give your life meaning—like cooking, dressing, walking, socializing, or caring for your home. OTs play a vital role in the healthcare team as they help you stay active, safe, and confident in your daily life. OTs are regulated medical professionals who work closely with physical therapists, social workers, and all types of medical doctors, from specialists, family doctors, to Geriatricians. In short, OTs are essential to a patient-centered healthcare team. Their unique focus on function, environment, and daily life adds depth and practical support to treatment plans, improving outcomes across all healthcare settings.
Published studies by the National Institute of Health, the American Journal of Occupational Therapy, the Canadian Association of Occupational Therapists, and more have shown that leveraging the services of an OT prevents hospital readmissions and helps seniors improve their quality of life.
2. Are OT services a substitute for medical advice by a family doctor?
No. The information provided by Seniors Health Advice Inc. is for general guidance only and is not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have health concerns or urgent issues, please consult your doctor. All Occupational Therapy interventions should be coordinated with your healthcare team.
3. How can I pay for Seniors Health Advice’s OT services?
We accept payment by email transfer (e-transfer) only for now. Full payment details will be provided at the time of booking.
Please note: We do not offer direct billing to insurers at this time. You will receive a detailed receipt to submit for reimbursement through your insurance provider, if eligible.
4. Can I claim Occupational Therapy on my taxes?
Yes. Occupational Therapy (OT) is considered a medical expense by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA). If you pay out-of-pocket for OT services or OT prescribed medical equipment, keep your receipts—they can be included when claiming the Medical Expense Tax Credit on your income tax return. Here is the link to the CRA-eligible medical expense list.
5. Is OT covered by insurance?
It depends on your plan. Many extended health insurance plans (including Blue Cross, Manulife, Sun Life, etc.) cover Occupational Therapy. Always check with your provider for your individual coverage and limits.
6. Can Veterans or seniors with government benefits access OT?
Yes. Veterans Affairs Canada, Indigenous Services Canada, and some provincial home care programs may cover OT services. Seniors receiving home care through their provincial health system may also be eligible for publicly funded OT support. Always check with your provider for your individual coverage and limits.
7. Do I need a doctor’s referral?
No. You can self-refer to us. We are a private OT clinic. However, if you're using insurance, some providers may require a physician’s referral to process the claim.
8. How do I book an appointment with an OT?
Go to our Contact or Book Now page (in the header above on any page), which is also linked here