Which of the following best defines "rehabilitation" in occupational therapy?

Rehabilitation in occupational therapy primarily refers to the process aimed at restoring function after injury or illness. This definition aligns with the core goal of rehabilitation, which is to help individuals regain their independence and improve their quality of life following a health-related setback. The focus is on evaluating the client’s abilities and challenges, developing strategies and interventions to facilitate recovery, and providing support as they work towards their goals. Occupational therapy specifically aims to assist clients in re-engaging with daily activities and occupations that may have been affected due to their injury or illness.

The other options do not encompass the full scope of rehabilitation as defined in occupational therapy. Improving social skills, while a crucial aspect of therapy, does not encompass the physical aspects of recovery or restoring function. Additionally, surgical interventions are not a primary focus of occupational therapy, which emphasizes non-invasive methods and holistic approaches. Lastly, while preventative measures are important in occupational therapy, they do not define rehabilitation, which concentrates on recovery and function restoration following an issue.