The Impact of Occupational Therapy on Functional Cognition

What is “functional cognition?” It means utilizing cognitive skills like memory, attention, and problem solving to engage in every day activities.

OT’s help individuals with cognitive impairments improve daily routines, self care, and leisure activities.

This may involve strategies such as environmental modification and compensatory strategies. Here are some examples:

Or therapy may focus on cognitive skills training such as memory and attention to support the engagement in activities of daily living. Here are some examples:

Occupational Therapy aims to enhance an individual's independence in daily activities while providing caregivers with essential guidance on the level of support required. This collaborative approach ensures that both the individual and their caregiver are equipped to navigate daily challenges effectively. By focusing on personalized strategies, we strive to empower individuals to lead fulfilling lives.

A Fall Is The #1 Threat To Your Independence

Here Is How To Beat A Fall!

A fall can lead to serious injuries that significantly limit mobility and daily activities, potentially requiring increased assistance and impacting quality of life. Early intervention is key - addressing fall risks as soon as possible can significantly reduce the likelihood of falls and associated injuries.

Research consistently indicates that the most effective way to prevent falls is through regular exercise programs specifically designed to improve balance, strength, and gait. Alongside this, modifying the home environment to remove tripping hazards and ensuring adequate lighting are also crucial elements of fall prevention strategies.

Exercise

Studies consistently show that exercise programs incorporating balance, strength, and gait training significantly reduce fall risk, with some research indicating a fall reduction of up to 40% with proper exercise routines.

Home Modification 

A comprehensive fall prevention strategy should involve lifestyle modifications, exercise programs, home safety adaptations, and regular medical checkups. Home safety modifications could include:

Lighting: Ensuring adequate lighting throughout the home, especially on stairs and hallways.  

Clutter removal: Removing tripping hazards like loose cords, rugs, and clutter from walking paths.  

Grab bars: Installing grab bars in bathrooms and near toilets for added support.

 Non-slip surfaces: Using non-slip mats in bathrooms and on high-traffic area  

The patient’s active participation and adherence to fall prevention recommendations is crucial for success. Consult with an occupational therapist to develop a safe and effective fall prevention plan, such as, Nancy Dillinger, OTR/L from OT House Calls. 303-775-4984.

Nancy will assess the person’s fall risk factors, tailor fall prevention strategies based on individual needs and risk factors, and periodically re-assess to track progress and adjust interventions as needed.

Don't make the mistake of waiting for an emergency to follow these recommendations to prevent a fall!

 References

Mayo Clinic

NHS.UK

National Institute on Aging (.gov)

OT's Role in Aging in Place

Aging in Place means staying in your home as you get older.

Below are 4 keys to help you continue to live independently.

Comprehensive Home Safety and Accessible Evaluation

by a Licensed Occupational Therapist

Occupational therapists play a critical role in helping older adults successfully age in place by:

Assessing home environments for hazards and recommending modifications

Teaching strategies for fall prevention

Recommending assistive devices or adaptive techniques

Addressing functional decline or cognitive challenges

Educating caregivers and families