In muscular dystrophy, what is the late-stage focus of occupational therapy?

• A. Avoid participation in daily activities
• B. Compensation for lost function
• C. Aggressive strengthening of all muscles
• D. Surgical correction of muscle tissue

Answer: (B)

In late-stage muscular dystrophy, the main aim of occupational therapy is to compensate for lost function so the person can stay as independent and safe as possible in daily activities. As strength declines, restoration of function becomes unlikely, so the focus shifts to adapting tasks and environments, using assistive devices, and adopting energy-conserving strategies. This approach helps with activities like dressing, cooking, and personal care, reducing fatigue and preventing strain.

Why this fits best: compensation acknowledges the reality of progressive weakness and emphasizes practical ways to maintain participation and safety rather than trying to restore abilities that are unlikely to return. Aggressive strengthening of all muscles isn’t appropriate in this context because it can be unsafe and often doesn’t yield meaningful gains in late-stage disease. Surgical correction of muscle tissue isn’t a typical OT focus and isn’t aimed at enabling independence in the daily tasks discussed.