What does an occupational therapy assistant do? – Tasks and work environment
An occupational therapy assistant works closely with occupational therapists and contributes to supporting patients in their rehabilitation processes. Tasks include assisting with motor skills training, helping with daily activities, adapting aids, and documenting patient progress. The work often takes place within the healthcare and social care sector, which can include hospitals, nursing homes, or home care. The assistant frequently meets individuals with various disabilities, requiring flexibility and good communication skills.
Salary development over time
Over the past three years, the salary for occupational therapy assistants has increased steadily. In 2022, the average salary was 27,100 SEK per month, rising to 29 400 SEK in 2023 and further to 30 200 SEK in 2024. The total increase amounts to just over 11.4% during the period, which is slightly above the average for similar healthcare professions. This positive salary trend can be explained by increased demand for supportive rehabilitation staff and a general focus on improving wages in the healthcare sector. Women have experienced a somewhat faster salary development than men, leading women to now earn 102% of what men do in the profession. The salary increases indicate that competence is increasingly valued as the population ages and the need for rehabilitation rises.
Occupational therapy assistant salary – comprehensive overview
- Average salary: 30 200 SEK/month
- Lowest salary: 26,500 SEK/month (female, public sector, less than 9 years of upper secondary education)
- Highest salary: 41,700 SEK/month (female, municipal sector, postgraduate education)
- Hourly wage: 181 SEK/hour (based on 166 working hours/month)
- Women: 30 400 SEK/month
- Men: 29 800 SEK/month
- Gender pay gap: Women earn 102% of what men do
- Regional differences: Salary variations occur, especially between urban and rural areas, but exact figures vary by employer and sector
Education and qualifications
To work as an occupational therapy assistant, a high school diploma in healthcare and social care is usually required, but some employers may also accept equivalent experience or internal training. Practical experience in the healthcare sector is advantageous, and sometimes short courses or workplace internships are offered to supplement skills. Employers often value good teamwork skills and an interest in rehabilitation.
- High school education: Care and welfare program, 3 years
- Internship: Workplace-based internships in healthcare/social care are highly valued
- Additional courses: Courses in rehabilitation and assistive devices can be advantageous
- Prerequisites: Often basic upper secondary education
- Internal training: Many employers offer introductory training upon employment
Working as an occupational therapy assistant often involves close contact with both patients and relatives, providing a unique insight into people's daily lives and recovery journeys. This profession is especially suitable for those who appreciate variety and want to make a difference through small, but crucial, steps. Many report that workdays are rarely the same and that there are good opportunities to develop social skills.
Common benefits and compensations
Occupational therapy assistants are often offered collective agreement benefits such as occupational pension, wellness allowance, and paid training. Other common compensations include overtime pay for unsociable hours and opportunities for skill development through internal courses. Some employers also offer subsidized lunches or staff discounts within municipalities or county councils.
Competition and challenges
Competition for positions as an occupational therapy assistant varies by region and workplace. Larger cities may have higher competition, while smaller towns often have a greater need for staff. A challenge is that the profession sometimes offers limited opportunities for advancement, prompting many to pursue further education to become occupational therapists or other healthcare professionals. The work can also be physically and emotionally demanding, especially when supporting individuals with various disabilities in their daily lives. Those entering the profession should be prepared for diverse tasks and sometimes tough working environments.
Tips for those wanting to become an occupational therapy assistant
To succeed as an occupational therapy assistant, it is good to be attentive and flexible, as each patient has unique needs and conditions. Patience and thoroughness facilitate assisting with rehabilitation exercises and documentation. Initiative is appreciated by employers, especially when finding adapted solutions in everyday situations. Teamwork skills are crucial since the work is performed in collaboration with occupational therapists and other healthcare staff. A genuine interest in helping others and a desire to develop within the profession also make a significant difference. The ability to handle stress and quickly adapt to changing tasks is valuable in a dynamic environment. Finally, good communication is key, both in interactions with patients and in cooperation with colleagues.
Key facts about occupational therapy assistants
- Educational level: High school diploma from the care and welfare program is recommended
- Work environment: Healthcare and social care facilities, often teamwork
- Typical work arrangement: Full-time or part-time, often daytime but evenings/weekends possible
- Demand: About 375 available jobs within the profession according to current statistics
- Special skills: Practical experience with rehabilitation and assistive devices is advantageous
Career paths and future prospects
After 3–5 years as an occupational therapy assistant, many choose to further their education to become occupational therapists or other healthcare professionals. There are also opportunities to specialize in areas such as elderly care or habilitation. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service, there is no specific forecast due to limited data, but the profession is part of a larger group with a generally stable need for healthcare and social care staff. The number of available jobs in the group is currently around 375, indicating ongoing demand. Future prospects are influenced by demographic changes and increased focus on rehabilitation in society.
Frequently asked questions about occupational therapy assistants
- What is the average salary of an occupational therapy assistant?
- An occupational therapy assistant has an average salary of 30 200 SEK per month.
- Are there salary differences between men and women?
- Yes, women earn an average of 30 400 SEK while men earn 29 800 SEK per month.
- What education is required to become an occupational therapy assistant?
- A high school diploma from the care and welfare program is recommended, but relevant experience and internal training can also suffice.
- What are the future prospects for occupational therapy assistants?
- The outlook is uncertain, but demand is considered stable within the profession with approximately 375 available jobs.
- What is the highest and lowest salary for an occupational therapy assistant?
- The highest salary is 41,700 SEK and the lowest is 26,500 SEK per month.
- What benefits are offered in the profession?
- Common benefits include occupational pension, wellness allowance, overtime pay, and opportunities for skill development.
