CHOICE South Restorative - Parkinson’s Program and Occupational Therapy Innovations

John Patrick Maglalang—a Therapy Assistant working at CHOICE South's Occupational Therapy (OT) program—has been instrumental to the innovation and development of the centre's OT program. He assisted with developing a Parkinson's specific group and worked collaboratively to create specialized programming, such as functional activity stations that mimic a client's home environment. Numerous clients have been able to restore their autonomy and improve their quality of life thanks to John's efforts.

John Patrick Maglalang standing beside a functional activity station.

John’s innovations have greatly improved clients’ adherence to treatment sessions. He’s been involved in several success stories and enabled clients to achieve goals they previously considered unattainable. John helped them recover their ability to perform the essential tasks of daily independent living, like reaching for glasses from a cupboard, unloading a dishwasher, or even playing with their pets. He also helped them restore their capacity to spend quality time with loved ones.

Beyond his contributions to the OT program and clients’ lives, John exhibits compassion and empathy throughout his practice. Strengthened by a wealth of knowledge, John communicates clearly and radiates positivity and encouragement. He regularly goes above and beyond for clients and team-members alike, with one client sharing that John plans to help him make maple taffy soon. Efforts like John’s change the culture of aging by empowering seniors to maintain their autonomy and live with a sense of dignity and purpose.