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The Term Productive Aging Was Coined By Robert Butler

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The term productive aging was coined by Robert Butler in 1983 at the Salzburg Seminar. Productive aging was introduced in order to deviate from preconceived notions that all elders are in a declining state of health and have limited functional abilities in comparison to younger counterparts (Butler & Gleason, 1985). The basis of occupational therapy is closely tied to productive aging. All occupational therapy practitioners share a common goal; to enhance the lives of all people across the lifespan by teaching adaptive life skills, engaging in meaningful occupations, and promoting a functional, productive, and fulfilled life regardless of age. Aging is not synonymous with ‘declining’, and occupational therapy practitioners must look beyond the stereotypes and see the person as a holistic being without focusing solely on chronological age.
Physical activity is especially important in regard to productive aging due to the health benefits associated with exercise and other forms of physical activity. It is important that physical activity be incorporated with a meaningful activity. For example, if a patient is not keen on exercise, it would be best to engage in an activity that the patient would enjoy. Assessing the patient 's needs and interests is the most efficient way to come up with an activity. Physical activities that are meaningful may involve gardening, meal preparation, shopping, walking, swimming, dancing, etc. Ultimately, physical activity lessens the risk of

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