The Adult Community Occupational Therapy Service provides rehabilitation utilising the Person, Environment and Occupation model of care, to optimise clients’ health and well-being in the community.
Occupational Therapists assess the level of functional ability of clients who, through a temporary or permanent illness or disability, cannot safely or independently carry out roles and meaningful occupations, in looking after themselves (self-care), participating actively in life (leisure), and contributing to their community (productivity).
This service provides comprehensive assessment in the home and the implementation of interventions for what are often complex functional problems i.e. practical advice and strategies, alternative adaptive techniques, provision of assistive equipment (often customised) and home modifications. Occupational Therapists act in an advisory capacity for other providers around the design of home modifications for people with disabilities and consult for therapists when a client's living situation has multifaceted functional issues impacting on discharge planning.
Equipment can be privately rented or purchased for outdoor mobility, or for visiting relatives. There are a number of equipment providers in Auckland that can be sourced via the Internet.
What to expect:
The Occupational Therapist will visit the client at their home and undertake an assessment of:
- Home environment
- Function (physical and/or cognitive)
- Ability to perform activities of daily living
- Needs and those of your caregiver(s)
The client/whànau and therapist will problem solve to identify areas of limitations and strengths, and work together to achieve outcomes to optimise health and wellbeing.