-
The U.S. Veterans Administration, President's committee on Employment of the handicapped, and the National Easter Seals Society developed the national standards for "Barrier free" buildings to allow access for all, including the disabled (U.S. Department of Labor, 2009). -
Established in 1954 to any AOTA (American Occupation Therapy Association) member who has had many contributions to the development and growth of the knowledge of Occupational Therapists and the profession. This may be someone who has developed theories or techniques that enhance OT practice or be completely committed to OT research, teaching, and/or mentorship (AOTA, n.d.). -
This act (and public law 565), signed by President Eisenhower not only increased federal funding for health administration and research, but it also expanded services which meant better quality care for those with disabilities, and more specifically for the mentally. This act also helped Occupational therapists because it put them alongside all other rehab services, which allowed for the growth of OTs in various settings! (Social Security Administration, 1954) -
The COTA role was introduced in response to growing demands for OT services.
This recognition helped solidify OT’s role within the medical model and increased its legitimacy as a healthcare profession. The significant impact was that it enabled billing and reimbursement for OT services. This allowed for more standardized training and credentialing. OT became a recognized therapeutic medical service (AOTA, n.d.). -
Membership expands and strengthens international professional standards.
Assistive Tech launched by Muriel Zimmerman (AOTA, n.d.). -
AOTA assumes responsibility for educational standards for Certified Occupational Therapy Assistants (COTAs) and approves the first OTA educational program for psychiatric COTAs. AOTA publishes the “Guide for the Development of Graduate Education Leading to Higher Degrees in Occupational Therapy,” outlining the requirements for a master’s-level curriculum for the profession.
1958: Important Events in OT’s History. (n.d.). https://www.otcentennial.org/100-events/1958 -
In 1959, a significant development in occupational therapy was the opening of the first school for occupational therapy assistants. Additionally, the World Federation of Occupational Therapists (WFOT) was admitted into official relations with the World Health Organization (WHO) that same year. These events highlight the growing recognition and expansion of the field in both education and international collaboration.
History. WFOT. (2025a, July 22). https://wfot.org/about/history -
In 1960, the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA) focused on developing a 12-week curriculum to train Certified Occupational Therapy Assistants (COTAs). This event marked a significant step in expanding the profession and creating a pathway for assistants to contribute to occupational therapy practice.
1960: Important Events in OT’s History. (2022). https://www.otcentennial.org/100-events/1960 -
AOTA publishes a "Statement of Policy" outlining its role in providing voluntary practitioner registration; overseeing OT education with the AMA; creating and sustaining clinical practice standards; supporting professional development; expanding OT knowledge for medical physicians; protecting OT practice standards and environments; and stopping policies detracting from OT's treatment role.
1960: Important Events in OT’s History. (2022). https://www.otcentennial.org/100-events/1960 -
The Social Security Amendment Act of 1965 created Medicare and Medicaid, formally including OT as a covered service. That same year, AOTA chartered the American Occupational Therapy Foundation (AOTF) and updated curriculum standards to include both physical disabilities and psychosocial practice. The Student Occupational Therapy Association began meeting annually to promote student engagement.
1960: Important Events in OT’s History. (2022). https://www.otcentennial.org/100-events/1960 -
In 1965, the U.S. government passed the Social Security Amendment Act, creating Medicare and Medicaid. For the first time, occupational therapy was officially recognized as a covered service. This allowed older adults and low-income individuals to access OT through federal insurance, helping OT become a more established part of the healthcare system.
1960: Important Events in OT’s History. (2022). https://www.otcentennial.org/100-events/1960 -
In 1968, AOTA released the first official definition of OT: “the art and science of directing man’s response to selected activity.” This gave the profession a clear identity, helping others understand what OT is and guiding how it would be taught and practiced.
Important Events in Occupational Therapy in 1960s. (2022). https://www.otcentennial.org/events/1960 -
1972: AOTA’s Headquarters moves to 6000 Executive Boulevard in Rockville, Maryland, to be closer to Congress for lobbying and to NIH for federal research funding. AOTA creates the Government and Legal Affairs Division (GLAD) to address issues related to occupational therapy practice in Congressional legislation. COTAs begin to receive AJOT as a member benefit.
otcentenial -
1974: AOTA approves a position in favor of state licensure. The first Model Practice Act is created. The Black Occupational Therapy Caucus (BOTC) is founded.
otcentennial