Seniors more independent, comfortable following assessments
Residents benefit from regular support from occupational therapist
Tuesday November 24, 2009 -- Natalie Hamilton
The ability to be mobile when they can't verbally communicate their needs is having a significant impact on residents' independence and self-esteem at a rural long-term care home.

As a result of having an occupational therapist (OT) in the home on a regular basis, Temiskaming Lodge residents are benefitting in many ways, says administrator Francine Gosselin.

"The benefits of OT assessments are multifold," she says.

"Having an ambulatory aide that is personalized to the resident has sometimes made the difference between being dependent on staff to being independent when he or she is able to self-propel a wheelchair that is the right height and width," Gosselin adds.

"This enhances dignity, comfort and the ability to attend more activities and socialize."

The OT works closely with Sheila Mills, restorative care co-ordinator at the 82-bed Haileybury home.

As a result of the assessments, some residents are using modified or new mobility aides that better suit their individual needs, which in some cases, allows residents to move around more freely. Exercise helps improve muscle tone and stimulates appetite, Mills says.

"Families love to see their loved ones moving around," the restorative care co-ordinator also notes.

In addition, appropriate cushioning on the seat of the chair is promoting circulation and improving skin integrity, she adds. There are safety benefits associated with having personalized assessments too.

Mills says prior to having the OT in the home, staff members did their best to ensure residents were in the most suitable equipment but "you could tell they were uncomfortable and not able to move throughout the (home) independently. Those were concerns for us."

Mills has a background working as an occupational therapy assistant.

"I could identify the needs."

Gosselin then approached the local Community Care Access Centre again with residents' assessment needs.

During the past five months or so, more than two dozen residents have benefitted from seeing the OT.

Eighteen or so are still waiting for assessment. "It's a process that continues," Mills says.

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