The digital society: Occupational therapists need to act proactively to meet the growing demands of digital competence

Abstract

This opinion piece discusses the importance of how occupational therapy practice, research and education responds to and acts proactively in relation to the growing requirement for digital competence placed on citizens. Digital competence will be outlined and scrutinized in relation to occupational therapy's core concerns and with regard to the role of occupational therapists and occupational justice. Changes in peoples’ occupations and occupational patterns due to digitalization will be exemplified. Finally, several questions and suggestions are posed as to how occupational therapy can build capacity and promote its role in the face of ongoing challenges.