For many people, bathing is an important aspect of their lives. Bathing is known to be an important contributor to self-care, bathing also helps with mental and emotional health, helps soothes muscles and joints, not to mention general hygiene. For these reasons baths can play an important role in a person’s life. As we get older or go through a period of injury, we may find it difficult in accessing or being able to use the bath.

Key question for many is: how I can continue to be able to use my bath?

There are a number of ways an Occupational Therapist can help you to enjoy the benefits of the bath in your home:

1. Adapting the activity – showing you how to get in/out of the bath by changing the activity.

2. Alternatives – goes through alternatives – showering, bed baths etc.

3. Adapting the environment – this may take place in building works, but can also include a range of equipment which may help the person to enjoy a nice relaxing bath.

There are several pieces of equipment that can assist with independent use of the bath. These include:

• Bath Lifts: Bath lifts are devices that lower individuals into the bath and raise them back up. They typically have a seat and a backrest and are powered by a battery. Some models may also have a reclining function and can swivel for easier transfer.
• Bath Boards: Bath boards are boards that span the width of the bath and provide a platform to sit on while bathing. They typically have a non-slip surface and may have handles for added support.
• Bath Seats: Bath seats are similar to bath boards but are designed to be used with the individual’s feet inside the bath. They can be helpful for individuals who need more support while bathing.
• Grab Bars/Rails: Grab bars/rails are handles that are mounted to the wall of the bath and provide support and stability for the individual while entering, exiting, or moving around in the bath.

 Consulting with an Occupational Therapist can be beneficial when considering equipment options for independent use of the bath because they are trained to assess an individual’s abilities, needs, and limitations related to performing daily living activities. They can also evaluate the individual’s bathroom environment and recommend equipment that is best suited to the individual’s specific needs and living situation.

Additionally, an Occupational Therapist can provide guidance on how to use the equipment safely and effectively, as well as provide training on any necessary techniques or strategies to maintain independence in the bath.

With the better weather upon us – deciding which product is most appropriate is an important choice and there is a variety of factors to consider. To help people make an informed decision it is important to consider the pros and cons of both the electric wheelchair and the mobility scooter. Below we have listed some of these to help you with choosing the correct mobility product for you.

Electric wheelchair

Benefits/Features

• 4-6 wheels
• Steered by a joystick
• Highly Manoeuvrable
• Tight turning circle
• Suitable for both outdoor and indoor use
• Wide variety of seat options
• Comfortable for long periods
• Support for postural issues
• Highly durable and stable
• Easier to use on public transport
• Ability to get closer to tables/countertops
• Options for folding versions

To Consider

• A powered wheelchair will be heavier than an entry level mobility scooter
• May require a car hoist/wheelchair accessible vehicle
• Usually more expensive
• Less storage
• Usually drives slower 

Mobility scooter

Benefits/features

• Mostly outdoor use
• Wide variety/models available
• More affordable
• More storage space.
• Usually drives quicker
• Easier to carry or put in/out of a vehicle
• Options for folding versions

To Consider

• Usually not as stable
• Not as comfortable for long periods
• Usually only appropriate for people with good upper body strength and dexterity to control and operate the scooter
• Has a wider turning circle – is usually not as appropriate for indoor spaces

So, mobility scooter vs powered wheelchair – which one? Choosing the right mobility product depends on a variety of factors including how/when it will be used. If you have any difficulty in deciding on which product is right for you – why not call your local Occupational Therapist or use our Find An OT – OT HUB (it’s FREE). Your local OT will help provide you with the help/advice on which product is most appropriate for you.

A riser recliner, also known as a lift chair, is a type of chair that can be adjusted to support the user in a variety of positions. Some of the key benefits of a riser recliner include:

1. Improved comfort: Riser recliners are designed to provide maximum comfort and support, with features such as padded cushions, adjustable lumbar support, and built-in heat and massage functions.

2. Increased mobility: Riser recliners can make it easier for people with mobility issues to get in and out of a seated position, as well as move around more easily.

3. Better posture: The adjustable backrest and footrest of a riser recliner can help users maintain good posture, reducing the risk of aches and pains.

4. Enhanced relaxation: The reclining and lifting functions of a riser recliner allow users to find the perfect position for relaxing and unwinding.

5. Increased independence: For individuals who have difficulty getting in and out of a traditional chair, a riser recliner can provide greater independence and reduce the need for assistance from others.

Check out the Beechfield Healthcare range of Riser Recliners.

An Occupational Therapist working in mental health may work in several areas. These setting will vary and may include working with people across the lifespan of their engagement with mental health services. Some of these areas include:

• Maternal mental health
  • During pregnancy, childbirth, and post-partum.
• Children and adolescent mental health services (CAMHS)
  • For the first 18 years of a child’s life – this may include both inpatient and community-based work.
• Adult mental health services
  • This includes everyone from the age of 18+. This may include work in a forensic setting, acute/subacute, community or a mixture of these.
• Older persons
  • This work may be done with people who are experiencing mental health difficulties, people with dementia or other memory and cognitive issues while working with families and carers.

Occupational Therapists work with people and their families to increase / maintain engagement in meaningful activities to help promote mental wellbeing. An OT will conduct an assessment with the person and their family / carer if relevant. Following on from the assessment,  the OT will jointly develop a range of goals with the person.

Depending on the area and goals of the person, this can include a wide range of activities. Some of these activities may include – social engagement, arts/crafts, schooling, sports, memory tasks, puzzles, reading, gardening, yoga, meditation and sensory experiences.

An occupational therapist may conduct a variety of assessments and use a variety of models and frames of reference to assist the person to become more self-empowered.

Throughout the process an OT may work with the person on their own or as part of a multi-disciplinary team. Some other professionals may include social workers, psychologists, psychiatrists, speech and language therapist, nurses, art therapist and play therapist.

If you or someone you know is looking for more details on the work an OT can do in this area – contact your local OT who works in this area to discuss.

An occupational therapist home assessment is an evaluation conducted by a qualified professional to assess an individual’s living environment and determine its suitability and necessary modifications to improve their functional independence and quality of life.

There are five key reasons for getting an occupational therapist to carry out a home assessment. Read the following list and identify and list those that would have a positive impact on your life.

1. Expertise in Assessing Functional Abilities: Occupational therapists specialise in assessing an individual’s functional abilities and how they interact with their environment. They are trained to evaluate a person’s physical, cognitive, and psychosocial abilities, as well as their specific needs and goals. This expertise allows them to identify potential barriers or challenges within a home environment that may affect an individual’s independence and safety.
2. Personalised Recommendations: By conducting a home assessment, an occupational therapist can provide personalised recommendations tailored to an individual’s specific needs. They consider factors such as mobility, accessibility, safety, and activities of daily living. They can suggest modifications, adaptive equipment, and strategies to improve the individual’s independence, safety, and overall quality of life within their home.
3. Maximising Safety and Independence: The primary goal of an occupational therapist is to promote independence and safety. By assessing the home environment, they can identify potential hazards, such as tripping hazards, poor lighting, or inaccessible areas, and provide recommendations to mitigate these risks. They can also suggest modifications to improve accessibility, such as installing grab bars, ramps, or stairlifts, which can enhance the individual’s ability to move around safely and independently.
4. Enhancing Quality of Life: Occupational therapists understand the impact that a well-designed home environment can have on a person’s overall well-being and quality of life. Through their assessment, they can identify ways to optimize the home environment, making it more functional, comfortable, and supportive. This can include recommending modifications to facilitate hobbies, leisure activities, social interactions, and other meaningful occupations.
5. Cost-Effectiveness: Investing in a home assessment conducted by an occupational therapist can be cost-effective in the long run. By addressing potential barriers and hazards proactively, individuals can prevent accidents or injuries that may result in costly hospitalisations or long-term care needs. Additionally, the recommendations provided by the occupational therapist can help individuals make informed decisions about home modifications or assistive devices, optimising their investment and avoiding unnecessary expenses.

It is important to note that the specific benefits of a home assessment may vary depending on the individual’s needs and circumstances. Having said that, there is no doubt that involving an occupational therapist in the process can lead to a comprehensive evaluation, personalised recommendations, and improved safety, independence, and quality of life within the home environment.

A question I get asked a lot when it comes to wheelchairs is “Do I need a transit or self-propelled wheelchair?”

Wheelchairs play a crucial role in enhancing mobility and independence for individuals with mobility challenges. Among the various types of wheelchairs, transit wheelchairs, and self-propelled wheelchairs are two distinct options designed to meet different needs. In this blog post, I’ll run through the main differences and similarities between transit and self-propelled wheelchairs, shedding light on the factors that users should take into account.

Transit Wheelchairs:

Transit wheelchairs, also known as transport or attendant-propelled wheelchairs, are designed to be pushed by a caregiver or an attendant rather than the user themselves. Here are some key features of transit wheelchairs:

1. Lightweight and Compact Design: Transit wheelchairs are often more lightweight and compact compared to self-propelled wheelchairs. This makes them easier to maneuver in tight spaces and convenient for transportation.

2. Smaller Rear Wheels: Transit wheelchairs typically have smaller rear wheels, making it easier for the caregiver to navigate and control the chair.

3. Foldable for Easy Transport: Many transit wheelchairs are designed to be foldable, facilitating easy storage and transport. This feature is particularly beneficial for individuals who require assistance but want a wheelchair that can be easily taken in and out of vehicles.

Self-Propelled Wheelchairs:

Self-propelled wheelchairs are designed for individuals who have the capability to move the wheelchair themselves. These wheelchairs provide users with greater independence and control over their mobility. Here are some key features of self-propelled wheelchairs:

1. Large Rear Wheels: Self-propelled wheelchairs typically have larger rear wheels, allowing users to propel themselves forward using hand rims. This design is essential for users who want to navigate various terrains independently.

2. Adjustable and Customizable: Self-propelled wheelchairs often come with adjustable features, such as seat height, backrest angle, and footrests. This customization allows users to find the most comfortable and ergonomic positions for their unique needs.

3. Heavier Construction: In contrast to transit wheelchairs, self-propelled wheelchairs may be heavier due to the larger rear wheels and additional features. This can impact their portability but contributes to durability and stability.

Similarities:

1. Basic Structure: Both transit and self-propelled wheelchairs share a fundamental structure, consisting of a seat, frame, wheels, and footrests. The difference lies in the specific design and features that cater to different user preferences.

2. Adjustable Features: While self-propelled wheelchairs often offer more customisation options, both types of wheelchairs may have adjustable features to ensure comfort and accommodate individual needs.

The choice between a transit wheelchair and a self-propelled wheelchair depends on the user’s mobility needs and preferences. Transit wheelchairs offer convenience and ease of use with the assistance of a caregiver, while self-propelled wheelchairs empower users to navigate their environment independently. Understanding these differences can help individuals make informed decisions that align with their lifestyle and requirements, ultimately enhancing their mobility and quality of life.

Having said all that, it’s important to note that I always recommend an assessment to determine the most appropriate type of wheelchair and just as important, the correct size. An occupational therapist conducts a wheelchair assessment by evaluating the individual’s physical abilities, functional needs, and environmental factors to determine the most appropriate wheelchair. This involves assessing posture, mobility, strength, and coordination, as well as considering the person’s daily activities and living environment. The therapist also considers the client’s preferences and goals to ensure the wheelchair meets their specific needs, promoting independence and improving overall quality of life.

As you can see, choosing the right type of wheelchair should not be left to chance.

You can view a range of quality, affordable transit, and self-propelled wheelchairs here.

If you are purchasing a product such as a stairlift privately, you do not require an OT assessment but it is always advisable to get one.

An Occupational Therapist can identify key areas where you may need assistance that may not be evident. During an assessment, the OT will identify what changes are required to help complete personal tasks to remain independent and safe. This is done by analysing how you interact in your environment and the OT can often spot potential problems that may not be evident yet, but that may be a problem in the future. This is vital as it can not only save money, but it will also make your home safer and ensure you don’t need to experience unnecessary inconvenience. 

Firstly, it is important to note that the first thing anyone can do the ensure they are maintaining their mobility and safety around the house is to encourage walking when suitable and appropriate. After that there are several environmental and personal factors to look out for in the house which may be making it a higher risk for falls to occur.

Here are 10 ways to reduce the risk of falling when engaging in your normal everyday activities:

1. Staying mentally active – it has been shown that cognition plays a key role in balance and risk of falling.
2. Check you vision and hearing – ensuring our visual and vestibular (balance) systems are checked up on regularly will help to reduce the risk of falls.
3. Environmental concerns – Review the household and make note of position of items which may prove to be a falls risk. These can include carpets, rugs, clutter, leads, poorly positioned furniture, seating etc.
4. Assistive technology – falls alarm, sensors, bed alarms etc – there are several companies (both private and non-profit), who sell or provide falls alarms kits, sensors and alarms to ensure there is precautions taken to help reduce the risk of falls AND to be prepared in the case of someone falling.
5. Footwear – ensuring you have well fitted shoes/slippers with good grip is vital to help reduce the risk of slipping/falling/
6. Toileting – to ensure maximum safety when toileting there is a variety of toileting aids which may suit. These include stationary or mobile commode, raised toilet seat, toilet frame, toilet seat and frame combined, grab rails etc.
7. Dressing – there are number of dressing aids which will help you to dress independently while reducing the risk of falling while in the process.
8. Mobility – discussing your mobility with your local OT and/or physio can play a big part in reducing the risk of falls. The OT and Physio can liaise with you to decide whether you might require a walking stick, walking frame, rollator, tri-walker, wheelchair, or other mobility device. The OT and physio have knowledge on how to assess mobility safely and effectively and will work with equipment providers to get you the right piece of equipment for you.
9. Seating – ensuring you are in a well fitted seat is vital in reducing the risk of falls (as well as a range of other benefits – postural management, digestion, respiratory system etc). Having a seat at the right height and/or having a rise and recliner will help make transfers on and off the chair safely.
10. Lighting – ensuring there is sufficient lighting to and from the rooms when they are going to be accessed. An example of this would be to ensure there is a night light, or easily accessible light when walking to the bathroom at night-time.

As always, if you are unsure or would like some guidance – why not contact your local OT and ask for an assessment to take place. Following the assessment, they will assist you so that you are taking the necessary precautions and will also provide you with the most relevant advice and information for your own individual and unique situation.

The American Occupational Therapy Association state the people with and ID have ‘’limited cognitive capacities and adaptive behaviours.” Occupational therapists work to help people perform their activities of daily living (ADLs) effectively and with the aim to help promote confidence, self-esteem, self-concept, overall happiness and often independence. As with any other patient population, occupational therapists help play an important role in aiming to promote meaningful engagement in a range of activities in a person-centred manner. Often this can involve engaging with the person themselves, their families, schooling/education systems, workplaces, government and councils and carers.

Depending on the person’s physical, cognitive, communication and sensory requirements, a range of interventions may be worked on with an occupational therapist. As part of any intervention the occupational therapist may also work as part of a multi-disciplinary team (MDT) including GPs, nurses, care staff, physiotherapists, speech and language therapist, teachers, social workers, and dieticians to name but a few. Furthermore, an occupational therapist may work with the person in a variety of settings including their home, schools, day services or community settings, work, respite services or residential services.

According to Justice et al., (2021) – some key areas an occupational therapist may work with this population include.

• Sensory interventions
• Seating
• Equipment provision
• Adapting environments/ environmental recommendations
• Use of natural environment
• Education for the person, family, care staff etc.
• Adapting activities of daily living
• Adapting roles and routines
• Visual arousal monitoring tools

Throughout Ireland, occupational therapists work in network disability teams (NDTs), charities, schools, and community teams with this population. Private occupational therapists may also work with this population. If you are looking for any additional information on what benefits an occupational therapist may have when working with you or someone you know with an ID – contact your local OT and learn more about the services they offer.

Occupational Therapists (OTs) and Physiotherapists (Physios) can sometimes be confused as both professions can work with similar groups of people.

Physiotherapy focuses on improving a person’s movement. Physios are movement experts as they have the knowledge and understanding of the anatomy and physiology of the affected area – including muscles, tendons, joints, range of motion, strength etc. Physios help improve the lives of people who have movement issues. This is done through

• Providing hands-on care
• Prescribing specific movement exercises
• Education – on the affected area of the body
• Prescription of certain mobility aids – Zimmer frames, tri walkers, rollators, etc.
• Individual or group work – goals can be achieved through individual therapy or group therapy depending on the physio you are working with, your injury and the expertise of the physio.

In comparison to a Physio – an OT is focused on improving people’s ability to perform specific tasks or activities they want to complete in their normal everyday lives. An OT will work with the person to understand their abilities and goals, then the OT will develop a treatment plan based on this information. These goals can include both physical and mental/cognitive tasks. To help people achieve these goals an OT may use one or a combination of techniques. These include:

• Person – the OT will work with the person, and their family or carers (if relevant), in building or maintaining the skills needed to engage in their desired activity. This may include practical exercises, providing equipment, education etc
• Environment – the OT will work with the client to adapt the environment to allow the person to engage – this may include house/home adaptions, grab rail installation, re organisation of rooms/areas, understanding the social environment and supports/barriers present.
• Occupation – finally an OT may look at adapting the occupation or activity the person is doing.

An OT and Physio can regularly work together for a variety of reasons. Engagement in your regular everyday activities or occupations generally require movement. Likewise, movement generally helps enable engagement in everyday activities. Both an OT and Physio may be involved in equipment prescription (riser recliners, hoists, mobility aids, daily living aids, pressure care, etc.).

Overall, an OT and Physio aim to improve a person’s life by helping them to achieve their goals. If you would like to know which profession would be more suitable for your situation you can contact our resident OT to find out.