Parkinson: the usefulness of occupational therapy

Occupational therapy in Parkinson's disease

Hospitalization for someone with Parkinson's often the opportunity to see an occupational therapist. Through occupational therapy, the patient learns to deal with practical problems: in and out of bath, buttoning his shirt, a steak into small pieces. In short, the kind of action that is becoming increasingly difficult as Parkinson's disease evolves.

Phase 1: a balance sheet

The occupational therapist encourages the everyday problems that someone with Parkinson's experience. To do that, he questioned not only the patient but also the people in his immediate environment. He observes how the patient eats, washes, takes the stairs, etc. On request, some hospitals and health funds an occupational therapist at home. He can recommend some changes to make life easier.

Stage 2: Practical solutions

The work of the occupational therapist is based on two pillars:

• the rehabilitation of the patient
• adapting its surroundings.

The rehabilitation sessions teach the patient the right actions. For example an easier pants or out of bed without falling and without risk of a sudden drop in blood pressure. Furthermore, the patient learns to use a number of useful items: a button hook in an instant to button his shirt or cutlery with a wide non-slip handle for easier to eat.

Phase 3: The home of the patient to adjust

Finally, does the occupational therapist about ways the home of the patient to adjust. He can better access and above all avoid accidents. Sometimes small changes are sufficient to prevent a fall: remove carpets, carpet securely, placing support poles in the toilet and the bathroom, etc. If the budget allows the patient, the occupational therapist to consider more radical changes. He may be a instapbad with door to install an elevator or chair to avoid stairs. If the latter is too expensive, and access to the upper floor is really dangerous, the ground floor completely re-equipped. He will then as a permanent living space of the patient are. Again, the occupational therapist useful tips for that area as practical and comfortable as possible.