What can an Occupational Therapist do for you?

By Crystal O’Donnell

Getting support soon after a dementia diagnosis is crucial to maintaining quality of life and independence. Occupational Therapists (OTs) offer a multifaceted approach that can support people living with dementia and families to navigate life after diagnosis.

Occupational therapy (OT) is not solely about prescribing equipment! While adaptive tools and home modifications can be valuable, OT extends far beyond this. OTs will ask questions to develop an understanding of individual and family daily routines, preferences, and challenges. OTs use this information to provide personalised strategies that address specific needs and goals. This holistic approach includes enhancing communication, fostering social engagement, promoting mental and emotional well-being, and providing education about the diagnosis. OTs will ensure that support is comprehensive, individualised, and effective.

Cognitive rehabilitation

OTs are specialists in cognitive rehabilitation.  This involves using a combination of therapeutic techniques to help restore skills or develop compensatory strategies. Restorative strategies don’t aim to ‘cure’ the cognitive symptom but to develop new pathways in the brain. Compensatory strategies may include simplifying activities, prescribing assistive technology, or recommending environmental modifications. Restorative and compensatory techniques aim to maintain independence, preserve cognition, and foster a sense of control and confidence.

Environmental review and modification

Home and broader environments are critical to support people living with dementia.  OTs provide comprehensive environmental reviews and identify potential challenges and opportunities for modification. This may involve assessing the home for risks and adjusting to improve accessibility and safety. Examples include provision of adequate lighting, signage to enhance wayfinding, assistive technologies, and organisation techniques to reduce visual clutter and enhance participation in activities – so much more than the prescription of rails and ramps typically associated with OTs!

Task adaptation

As dementia progresses, certain tasks may become more challenging. OTs work with individuals with dementia to modify tasks to maximise current abilities and enable people to continue with meaningful day-to-day activities. This includes breaking down complex tasks into simpler steps or using adaptive equipment to make tasks more manageable. For example, using pre-set meal kits with easy-to-follow instructions can help individuals continue cooking independently.

A strength-based approach

OTs focus and build on people’s strengths, by empowering individuals through emphasising retained skills and supporting their identity and sense of accomplishment, which is vital for emotional well-being. By adapting tasks and modifying the environment to align with the individual’s abilities OTs help preserve their self-esteem and dignity.

OTs assist in navigating the challenges of dementia with greater ease and support the preservation of existing skills and independence to enhance the overall quality of life.

How do I find an occupational therapist?

• Occupational Therapy Australia maintains a list of OTs by region and area of practice.
• COPE Occupational Therapists have received specialist dementia training.
• Your GP may be able to refer you to OT services in your area.
• Read 5.3 Plan to use services. This article provides comprehensive information on where to find services, including occupational therapists.