A Scoping Review on Artificial Intelligence in Occupational Therapy

Abstract

Artificial intelligence (AI) is increasingly integrated into occupational therapy, enhancing rehabilitation, assessment, and assistive technologies. However, its applications and challenges remain underexplored. This scoping review maps AI applications in occupational therapy, identifying benefits and challenges to inform practice and research. Following the Arksey and O’Malley framework and Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses Extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR) guidelines, a systematic search of six databases identified studies published between 2015 and 2025. Data were analyzed using a mixed inductive-deductive qualitative content analysis approach. AI is primarily applied in motor rehabilitation, functional assessment, assistive technology, and telerehabilitation. Robotic therapy and machine learning-driven assessments improve intervention precision and accessibility. Challenges include high costs, limited therapist training, and ethical concerns. AI offers promising advancements for occupational therapy but requires strategic implementation. Future research should address ethical considerations, therapist training, and AI applications beyond rehabilitation to optimize integration into practice.

Plain Language Summary

How Artificial Intelligence Is Being Used in Occupational Therapy

Artificial intelligence (AI) refers to computer systems that can perform tasks usually done by humans, such as learning, problem-solving, and decision-making. In health care, AI is already being used to support rehabilitation and assessment. However, it is not yet clear how AI is specifically used in occupational therapy, a profession that helps people participate in everyday activities despite illness, injury, or disability. This scoping review looked at how AI is currently being used in occupational therapy practice. We reviewed 15 studies from 2015 to 2025 that explored how AI supports different aspects of therapy. The most common uses of AI include robotic therapy to help people move their arms and hands, tools that assess motor skills like handwriting or movement, and remote (telerehabilitation) systems that let people do therapy from home. We found that AI technologies can increase therapy intensity, help therapists personalize treatment, and improve access to services for people in remote areas. However, the studies also described challenges. These include the high cost of AI tools, limited training for therapists, and concerns about data privacy. This review helps occupational therapy practitioners, researchers, and decision-makers understand how AI is being used today and where there are gaps in knowledge. More research is needed to explore AI use in mental health, community-based practice, and with children or other underserved groups. It is also important to train therapists to use AI responsibly while still keeping therapy person-centered.