What is an occupational therapist or OT?
An Occupational Therapist (OT) enables people with MS to become as independent as possible in their daily living activities at home, at work and in leisure pursuits.
OT's will consider how areas such as dexterity, grip, sensation, strength, balance, co-ordination, vision, concentration, memory, mood and fatigue affect performance of everyday activities.
To identify the factors that reduce a person's ability to participate fully in everyday activities, the OT considers their daily routine, family situation and home environment. Where independence is not possible, the OT can assist the person with MS and carers to maintain dignity and comfort and promote opportunities for choice.
To identify the factors that reduce a person's ability to participate fully in everyday activities, the OT considers their daily routine, family situation and home environment. Where independence is not possible, the OT can assist the person with MS and carers to maintain dignity and comfort and promote opportunities for choice.
How can an occupational therapist (OT) help?
OT's will assist people with MS and their families to explore possible solutions, using aids and equipment to help with eating and drinking, kitchen activites, domestic activites, leisure and family activities and employment. Alternative methods of undertaking tasks in difficult areas, for example transferring from one position to another, can increase personal confidence and safety. Both hospital and community based OT's may be able to loan equipment to an individual.Some home adaptations may be necessary in order to improve access to the home and to facilities within the home. Community OT's working in the local authority social services departments can make recommendations and assist with this process. Disabled Facilities Grants, which can help fund adaptations, are usually dependent on the recommendations of an OT acting on behalf of the Social Services.
