https://www.hse.ie/corkkerry/ot-for-adults/
A new webpage developed by Cork Kerry Community Healthcare Occupational Therapists aims to assist people to continue to live safely and independently in their own homes.
The webpage was developed by HSE/Cork Kerry Community Healthcare Occupational Therapists working in adult services in Cork.
HSE Occupational Therapists help people do the everyday things they want to do or need to do when faced with a physical illness, injury or disability. Covid-19 has meant that the team had to reconsider how they deliver their services and interact with the people in need of their support.
With fewer face-to-face interactions taking place, the Occupational Therapy team decided to develop a web-page with useful resources, tips and strategies. These practical suggestions can assist a person to continue engage in meaningful activities and live safely and independently in their own home.
The leaflets include:
* Checklist for choosing a supportive armchair
* Buying and installing grab rails
* Fatigue management, mindfulness, occupations & wellness, and pain management advice
Sinead Tierney, Occupational Therapist said:
The Adult OT website for CKCH provides instant accessible information to the public on a range of Health Promotion and Self-Management topics”
This was a collaborative project involving fellow OT colleagues, HSE digital team, graphic designers, and the communications department. This was a very new way of working which was exciting project to be part of. Our website has worked hand in hand with the increase in telehealth (online appointments) used by occupational therapists due to Covid -19 restrictions. As we move further into a technology-focused society this has allowed us to move our service provision into that space too.
Sinead’s ‘Top Tips’ for creating a routine during the Covid-19:
- Set out a daily routine for yourself and write it down on paper, this can help to keep you focused and give a sense peace of mind and predictability in an ever changing world. Writing your schedule down it will also provide a sense of satisfaction when you can tick off your activities that are completed.
- Try to have a good variety of activities in your day, some exercise, cleaning or household jobs, some self-care activity, and a phone call to family members or friends. Always include something you enjoy to do in your day which could be an activity such as painting or baking. If you are feeling very motivated maybe try something new!
- If you are unable to do an activity you previously liked because of restrictions think of another way you could simulate it e.g. online dance class, phone calls to friends you may have met weekly, go for a walk before watching mass on the television or online.
- Try to keep a consistent sleep routine, going to bed at the same time every night and waking at the same time every morning. A lie-in should be limited to 1 hour later than your regular wake time.
Notes:
The Occupational Therapists (OT) team can help people to choose and use special equipment like wheelchairs and aids for mobility, eating, dressing or any other activity. They also help people to adapt their home environment to accommodate their distinct needs. Occupational therapists also help people improve basic skills like motor functions or thinking abilities so that they can perform essential activities like dressing, cooking or work and leisure activities. OT teams can also help service users by designing new ways for them to accomplish the tasks or leisure activities they need or want to do.
To view the webpage, please visit:
https://www.hse.ie/corkkerry/ot-for-adultsd
For the new leaflets please visit:
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