Time to Wake Up: Bridging the Gap between Theory and Practice for Sleep in Occupational Therapy

Abstract

Sleep plays an essential role in physical, cognitive and emotional functioning, and in occupational performance and participation; it is now considered within the scope of occupational therapy practice. However, since sleep is not routinely assessed and addressed in standard practice, a practice gap exists. Interventions are available to optimize sleep and cope with the consequences of sleep disorders, but occupational therapists may overlook the effect of sleep on function, so missing opportunities to provide relevant management strategies. This opinon piece argues the benefits of including sleep within occupational therapy practice and provides suggestions to facilitate its inclusion within practice, education and research.