Energy Conservation Strategies: Occupational Therapy Tips for Everyday Life

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Introduction

Fatigue is a common symptom experienced by people living with chronic illness, disability, or recovering from injury. It can affect physical functioning, mental wellbeing, and participation in daily life. Occupational therapy offers practical, evidence-based strategies to help clients conserve their energy and maintain independence in the activities that matter most to them.

This blog explores key energy conservation strategies, the principles behind them, and how working with an occupational therapist (OT) can help you or a loved one live a more balanced and fulfilling life.

What is Energy Conservation?

Energy conservation refers to methods that reduce unnecessary energy expenditure during daily activities. It doesn’t mean doing less—it means doing things more efficiently and strategically, so you have energy left over for the activities that bring you joy.

Occupational therapists use energy conservation as part of fatigue management programs to:

• Maximise participation in meaningful activities

• Reduce feelings of exhaustion or overwhelm

• Promote sustainable daily routines

Whether you live with chronic fatigue, multiple sclerosis, arthritis, post-viral fatigue, or are recovering from surgery or injury, energy conservation can play a crucial role in your health and quality of life.

7 Core Principles of Energy Conservation

1. Plan Ahead

   • Think about your daily and weekly schedule.

   • Group similar tasks together (e.g., preparing meals for multiple days).

   • Avoid unnecessary trips up and down stairs or back and forth across rooms.

   • Keep essentials within easy reach to reduce bending or reaching.

2. Pace Yourself

   • Take breaks before fatigue sets in, not after.

   • Use timers or scheduled rest breaks during chores.

   • Break large tasks into smaller, manageable chunks.

3. Prioritise Activities

   • Decide which tasks are essential, and which can be postponed, simplified, or delegated.

   • Use a rating system to rank the physical, mental, or emotional effort required for each task.

4. Use Good Body Mechanics

   • Keep your back straight and avoid bending from the waist.

   • Carry items close to your body.

   • Push rather than pull when possible.

5. Use Assistive Equipment

   • Long-handled sponges, jar openers, reachers, and perching stools can reduce physical strain.

   • Trolleys or wheeled carts help transport items without lifting.

6. Modify Your Environment

   • Rearrange cupboards so frequently used items are easy to access.

   • Consider installing shower chairs, lever taps, or other home modifications.

   • Use proper lighting to avoid eye strain and improve efficiency.

7. Maintain a Healthy Routine

   • Eat well and stay hydrated to support energy levels.

   • Practice good sleep hygiene.

   • Build rest and relaxation into each day—self-care is productive too!

Practical Examples

Let’s say you enjoy cooking but find it exhausting. With energy conservation, an OT might recommend:

• Pre-chopping vegetables while seated using a safe cutting board

• Using a slow cooker to prepare meals with minimal effort

• Cooking larger portions and freezing meals for later

• Resting during preparation and clean-up steps

For a parent with fatigue from post-viral illness, energy conservation might involve:

• Sitting down while dressing children or packing lunches

• Using a wheeled laundry basket instead of carrying loads

• Allocating specific rest periods into their day—even five minutes can help!

How Occupational Therapy Can Help

At South Coast Therapy & Support Group, our occupational therapists provide:

• Comprehensive assessments of your home, routines, and fatigue triggers

• Personalised fatigue management programs

• Equipment recommendations and NDIS funding support

• Practical education for individuals, families, and carers

We focus on your goals—whether that’s returning to work, caring for your family, managing personal tasks, or simply doing more of what you love.

Takeaway Message

Energy conservation isn’t about doing less—it’s about working smarter, not harder. By applying these simple strategies, you can reduce fatigue, protect your body, and stay independent and active in your daily life.

If you or a loved one could benefit from an energy conservation plan tailored to your needs, contact our team of occupational therapists today. We're here to help you regain control of your time, energy, and wellbeing.