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Therapy Articles (126)

  • The Kawa Model 'Wuurrks' as a Group OT Intervention

    An experienced Occupational Therapist, the author of this article once knew little about her ancestry, with no real interest in it. She describes having 'lived in a silo' - disconnected from the past and unconnected to the future - with little appreciation of a life being lived as part of an eternal timeline ( living in connection to everyone, everywhere ). This was until she became a licensed 'Wayapa Wuurrk' (Earth Connection) practitioner*. * Wayapa® Wuurrk means 'connect to the Earth', in the languages of the Maara and GunaiKurnai First Nation People of Australia. Wayapa is a unique approach to our collective wellbeing as planet and people . It offers Earth, Mind, Body Spirit Wellness, to anyone of any age and ability, through movement and mindfulness. It is the first Indigenous Wellbeing modality to be accredited by the International Institute for Complementary Therapies (IICT) . The author's journey of learning and connection has enabled her to perceive the value of the Kawa Model as a group intervention . To incorporate Kawa into you occupational therapy practice in this manner, follow the steps illustrated below... We are not silos. We are all connected to each other and to our Earth. We are nature! Introducing Kawa as a Group Intervention The Kawa (River) provides a great opportunity for high-quality reflection and co-created group experiences within occupational therapy practice . Kawa enables the exploration of complex issues, within groups or communities that share roles, goals, or interests. Kawa Model illustration - interacting features impacting flow "You can't solve a problem from the same thinking that created it" - Albert Einstein This is exactly how Kawa facilitates problem-solving for us as individuals and in groups. It enables us to create a different perspective , through the unique reflective and emergent process that is Kawa. In a group setting, this occurs through group discussion, as participants identify their shared ' common themes ' from their individual Kawa Rivers. Through the value and validation a group experience participants can then be empowered to co-create their  Collective Wellbeing Action Plan (CWAP) which becomes the focus of OT intervention. Whether this group approach with Kawa is used in a single exploratory session, or as the foundation for an ongoing course of intervention, the fact is that the agenda has been identified and set by the group, through a genuine and relevant co-creation process from their shared experience as a group.  As a group they may share a common role, such as a particular discipline within a multidisciplinary team (MDT). The group could consist of carers or individuals experiencing a shared difficulty or disability. Whatever the common ground participants share, this becomes the focus of their Kawa River within the group session, and the CWAP they co-create with this process. It is worth noting that participants can benefit from the unique insights this process provides for them within their individual river and the collective group experience too. As a group intervention, this genuinely empowers participants to identify their priorities and to take ownership of their plan. Furthermore, any action inspired as a result of this process will be meaningful and relevant to them and their lives. As a group intervention this has potential to inspire hope , both for each individual member and the collective group. Individual members of the group will be more aware of their own life journey and gain valuable wellbeing insights into their unique river landscape through this process. They will obviously choose what to do with these insights; depending on the setting, the OT facilitating the process can ensure appropriate support is available for them if necessary (see the process Preparation below). Kawa session at Wolverhampton University, UK [photo credit: Lianne Sealey] Group participants have a shared experience or intention that they focus on whilst creating their individual Kawa River. This is prepared in advance and brought to the group session.  During a meaningful group discussion, participants can share these insights and 'common themes' will emerge, relating to their shared experience and space within the group.    Using Kawa in groups in this way taps into this shared space, without a pre-determined agenda. It facilitates meaningful discussions and produces genuine co-creation opportunities for participants to explore their shared space. Just as Einstein encouraged, we can explore problems together, from a different perspective . This methodology enables us to co-create another level of consciousness, through Kawa's reflective and emergent process. In this way, we can tackle complex issues, outside of agendas and systems . Imagine the potential this holds for everyone - for communities, organisations and the global problems facing humanity now! Reviewing Kawa in group sessions The following step-by-step guidelines are intended to empower you to create your own Kawa group work session(s) - and complete a review with your group. Without a review, we do not know if the group intervention has had any meaningful impact for the participants . Reviews provide an opportunity for OTs to showcase their skills, knowledge - and the uniquely inclusive, holistic and inter-generational perspective that OT offers everyone. Please try to schedule a review when booking the group session, or before the end of the session. It is more likely to happen when it is valued and a clear commitment is made to engage. Otherwise it is likely to be lost. It is recommended that the initial review is with the same facilitator, to provide consistency.  However, once everyone is familiar with the process (including the review), they can identify their facilitator; this is ideally someone external to the group. The Process: A) Preparation Ask all the group participants to prepare their individual Kawa (River) before the session (ideally one-to-two weeks in advance). The focus of these rivers is their shared experience within the group .  However , it is likely that it will include their personal journey too. Kawa grows meaningful insights for participants. In a shared space, these will become their 'common themes'. These then provide the focus for their session and the co-creation of a shared action plan, as well as potential future sessions and review(s). You may choose to run a separate introductory/preparation session in advance - to introduce the Model and for everyone to begin creating their rivers. This is time consuming, but the preparation has to be done in advance of the group session. Alternatively, with sufficient understanding of the Model and process, participants can prepare independently in advance. You can create a resource to support this - or contact this article's author Debbie (details below) , for a template that you can use . Kawa (River) example from author   Kawa creates a reflective and emergent process that, with time, allows otherwise unconscious elements in life to come to light. This is why it is important to allow time for people to experience this insightful part of the process. B) The Group Session During the group session, encourage participants to discuss their individual Kawa rivers and share the 'common themes' that emerged for them. Then encourage them to identify their shared goals . Incorporating a goal-setting approach, such as SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic, Time-bound) facilitates the co-production of the CWAP and provides a structure for the follow-up review. Finally, participants can prioritise their goals to co-create their CWAP, which becomes the focus of intervention. Using this process within a reflective and active learning approach enables the continual development of meaningful insights and strategies .  This is equally relevant to individuals and collectively to the group, team or organisation. C) The Review The CWAP can be regularly reviewed, within timeframes to meet the needs of the group and maintain momentum. In this way, participants can continually update their learning, growth and wellbeing strategies - whilst ensuring that the focus of the CWAP remains meaningful and relevant for everyone in the group. Now feel free to have a go yourself!  Feedback can be offered through The Occupational Therapy Hub , or by contacting article author Debbie ( theCelticOT@outlook.com ). Further reading: To join the journey to 'Collective Wellbeing' now, for Planet and People, visit the Wayapa Wuurrk (Earth Connection) website . Watch this space for developments, including a Wayapa Cognitive Behavioural Therapy Course, being co-created with Professor Melissa O'Shea and her psychology team at Deakin University in Melbourne. For more information about the Kawa (River) Model, visit the official website Read ' Use of the Kawa Model in a school setting ' via the Hub's Therapy Forum A note of gratitude Thank you Professor Iwama - and co-creators of Wayapa Wuurrk, Jamie Marloo Thomas and Sara Jones . Thank you for your encouragement and support on this journey, developing this group 'wuurrk' approach with Kawa, through a Wayapa lens. It is with much gratitude and humility that I can share this within the OT community now. As you may be aware, Professor Iwama has gifted the Kawa Model to the profession of Occupational Therapy, and his wishes are for it not to be monetised.  Wayapa Wuurrk (Earth Connection) Group set up

  • Neuroplasticity

    Introduction I am currently doing a sensory integration module and I have chosen to develop an article to help my learning. Neuroplasticity is a core concept which I will explore further during this article. I will summarise some of the key learning points to consolidate my knowledge. This feels highly relevant to my role, in relation to trauma and mental health . The brain can change Neuroplasticity refers to the ability of neurons and neural networks to alter and adapt behaviour as a consequence of new information, such as sensory messages, damage or dysfunction (Britannica Academic, 2022). This can take place throughout the human lifespan, but is particularly prominent at key developmental milestones , such as early childhood or puberty (Erikson, 1982). Throughout the lifespan, synapses strengthen or weaken neural connections and we are able to update our knowledge and adapt our behaviour in context to the environment. There are many different theories of development, including the nature vs nurture debate (Bundy et al., 2020). However... Recent literature suggests that gene expression is based upon the specific environment within which one lives, which ultimately influences brain function and behaviour (Nelson et al, 2006). Research suggests that we maintain the neuronal connections and pathways that are most useful to us - and lose those that are less helpful. If someone experiences early adversity, their cortisol levels increase and act as a way to self-protect. Instinctive ways of behaving, such as fight or flight reactions, are formed in the amygdala and hypothalamus (Gerhardt, 2011). This results in the strengthening of neuronal pathways and synapse connections in these areas. Consequently, young children who live in an environment with angry or aggressive people will keep pathways that help them become alert to anger and danger (Gerhardt, 2011). This function also serves to impede the development in other areas of the brain, that relate to social, emotional, sensory and cognitive connections (Ward, 2017). Even when the threat has reduced, a child can maintain higher levels of stress/cortisol into later years, which impacts the parasympathetic system and immune functioning (e.g. rest and digest). It can also impede social and emotional learning, as the brain is preoccupied with managing stress. Scientific research highlights the key role of the social brain in controlling our emotions and determining behaviour. Neural pathways are formed as a result of environmental factors and situational experiences (Barker et al., 2018). The brain develops in response to social experiences and learned behaviour, a good example being emotional control. It is the primary caregiver who provides initial experiences of emotions being managed, before the baby can learn to self-soothe and manage her own feelings well (Gerhardt, 2014). My Practice I have always been interested in the impact of the environment on early development, due to my role in mental health . However, I had not realised the relevance to neuroplasticity. It has been helpful to review the evidence, to better support my practice. I was interested in some of the benefits of calorie restriction and intermittent fasting, due to a reduction in inflammation and oxidative damage (Zhu et al., 2012). From a neuroscience perspective, reducing calorie intake seems to improve synaptic resilience to damage and modify the number, architecture and performance of synapses. There were also noted improvements in sleep (Fusco and Pani, 2013) and verbal memory (Witte et al., 2009). This challenges our current perceptions on the importance of promoting regular meals. However, the authors did recognise that calorie restriction remains poorly understood, recommending more research before making conclusions. I was also interested in the value of promoting 'newness' and challenge , due to the benefits of environmental stimulation on cognitive function. A study found that music enhanced activation of the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex, to support retrieval of information and memory functioning (Ferreri et al., 2013). I think that the value of occupation on memory is rarely promoted in my area of practice (mental health), although perhaps more so in others (e.g. stroke or rehabilitation). We tend to promote diet, music and learning opportunities, but it is helpful to see the evidence here to support that. This research provides good evidence to support the role of neuroplasticity in everyday practice. Summary of importance This learning has helped developed my knowledge beyond a superficial level. The latest research explores the use of neuroplasticity and for promoting lifestyle changes (diet, sleep, relationships, exercise, etc) and improving general health, even in the later years. It is through enriching environments (e.g. learning opportunities), that neuroplasticity can occur. References Barker, Roger A., et al. (2018) Neuroanatomy and Neuroscience at a Glance. John Wiley and Sons. Britannica Academic (2022) 'Neuroplasticity'. Britannica Academic, Encyclopaedia Britannica. 3 September 2020. academic-eb-com.hallam.idm.oclc.org/levels/collegiate/article/neuroplasticity/442801 . Accessed 3 February 2022. Bundy, Anita C., et al. (2020) Sensory Integration: Theory and Practice . F. A. Davis. Erikson, E. H. (1982) The life cycle completed . New York, NY: WW Norton. Ferrarelli F., Smith R., Dentico D., Riedner B.A., Zennig C., Benca R.M., et al. (2013). Experienced mindfulness meditators exhibit higher parietal-occipital EEG gamma activity during NREM sleep. PLoS ONE Fusco S. and Pani P. (2013) Brain response to calorie restriction. Cell. Mol. Life Sci . 70 3157–3170 Gerhardt, S. (2011) Why Love Matters: How Affection Shapes a Baby’s Brain. Psychoanalytic Psychotherapist and Author of ‘Why Love Matters’ and ‘The Selfish Society’ . https://files.cdn.thinkific.com/file_uploads/472793/attachments/366/abf/b8e/QOC10Gerhard.pdf . Accessed 3 February 2022. Gerhardt, S., 2014. Why love matters: How affection shapes a baby's brain . Routledge Nelson, C., Johnson, M., Thomas, K. and de Hann, M. (2006) Brain development and neural plasticity. In Nelson, C., de Hann, M. and Thomas, K. (Eds.), Neuroscience of cognitive development . New Jersey: John Wiley and Sons Inc. Ward, J. (2017) The Student's Guide to Social Neuroscience . Psychology Press. Shaffer, J. (2016) Neuroplasticity and Clinical Practice: Building Brain Power for Health. Front Psychology . 7: 1118. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4960264/ . Accessed 14 September 2022. Zhu B., Dong Y., Xu Z., Gompf, H.S., Ward S.A., Xue Z., et al. (2012). Sleep disturbance induces neuroinflammation and impairment of learning and memory. Neurobiology . Dis. 48 348–355.

  • The Best Occupational Therapy Books for Mental Health OTs

    Results are in, the votes have been counted and I am putting on a sparkly dress, to announce the Top 10 Occupational Therapy books that all Occupational Therapists (OTs) MUST read. I wanted to put this list together because I knew I hadn’t read widely enough in my own area. This has given me a few places to look, so thank you to everyone who took part in the 2020 survey. I was really interested to see what was nominated and absolutely delighted to see what wasn’t. We are going to do the top 9 in no order whatsoever and then the overall winner is at the bottom . Enjoy! [N.B. Clicking images takes you to Amazon; other shops and online stores are available] Diverse roles for Occupational Therapists Edited by Jane Clewes and Robert Kirkwood First up... I’m quite pleased this got through, not least because the chapter in it on ‘Personality Disorder’ is by me. This book has a range of occupational therapists in different mental health positions describing their roles; it’s a great resource for particular areas and for bringing innovation into places we haven’t been before. Colleagues of mine wrote about psychiatric intensive care units (PICUs), Prisons and Eating Disorders - I’m pretty sure at one point we were the most academic OT corridor in the UK. It’s probably due a sequel now, with even more novel roles emerging . Groupwork In Occupational Therapy By Linda Finlay 23 years old and still pulling in the votes, this is the oldest book in the list. Written primarily for occupational therapists, 'this text explores the range of group work activities used within occupational therapy practice. Discussing theoretical aspects and practical approaches , this book is an invaluable handbook to those working and studying occupational therapy.' Occupational Therapies Without Borders: Integrating Justice With Practice By Dikaios Sakellariou and Nick Pollard This is a book I hadn’t even heard of before. Apparently this builds on the previous two volumes, offering a window onto occupational therapy practice, theory and ideas, in different cultures and geographies . It emphasises the importance of critically deconstructing and engaging with the broader context of occupation, particularly around how occupational injustices are shaped through political, economic and historical factors. Centring on the wider social and political aspects of occupation and occupation-based practices, this textbook aims to inspire occupational therapy students and practitioners to include transformational elements into their practice. It also illustrates how occupational therapists from all over the world can affect positive changes , by engaging with political and historical contexts. It could probably do with a chapter on COVID-19, but then I’m sure most books could at the moment… An Occupational Perspective of Health By Ann Wilcock and Clare Hocking 4th on the list, another book I hadn’t come across before. Amazon says 'For nearly 20 years, An Occupational Perspective of Health has been a valuable text for health practitioners, with an interest in the impact of what people do throughout their lives. Now available in an updated and much-anticipated Third Edition, this unique text continues the intention of the original publication: it encourages wide-ranging recognition of occupation as a major contributor to all people’s experience of health or illness. It also promotes understanding of how, throughout the world, "population health" , as well as individual well-being, is dependent on occupation.' This sounds like a useful message for us to articulate. Creating Positive Futures: Solution Focused Recovery from Mental Distress By Lucie Duncan, Rayya Ghul and Sarah Mousley Coming in 5th (they are not in order), this is currently going for a much more modest price - and you can let me know whether the Wilcock book is 4 times better. With 5 stars on Amazon 'This is a valuable resource for anybody working in the fields of mental health and disability, regardless of professional discipline , not only occupational therapists but psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers and nurses.' It shows a respectful, structured and realistically optimistic way of talking with troubled people, so that their own strengths and resources are highlighted. This book introduces their Solution Focused Measure of Occupational Function . It is clearly written, almost jargon-free and contains many useful case-examples and suggestions for generative questions. The authors have avoided it becoming too much of a therapy-by-numbers ‘cook-book’. Enabling Occupation II: Advancing an Occupational Therapy Vision for Health, Well-being & Justice Through Occupation By Elizabeth A. Townsend and Helene J. Polatajko For its price, I’d expect this book to assess my clients for me. It’s not easy to find a synopsis for this book (if someone sends me one I’ll add it to the article), but what I have learned is: 'As a practitioner, Section I provides you with the opportunity to reflect on the implications that embracing occupation as our core domain of concern has for your practice. The Section promotes an appreciation of the full breadth of human occupation and facilitates the adoption of an occupational perspective in viewing the world. With the Section, you are encouraged to adopt an occupational perspective to guide your practice - be it as a clinician, educator, researcher, administrator, manager, or consultant. You will immerse yourself in language frameworks and models , that will help to organise your thoughts and articulate your understanding of occupation and to explore the learnings that occupational science can shed on your understanding and appreciation of occupation.' Foundations for Practice in Occupational Therapy By Edward Duncan 7th on the list... Eddie was one of my first supervisors, back in the days when I was young and knew nothing. Now that I’m old and know less it’s good to see this scoring so well. 'The internationally acclaimed Foundations for Practice in Occupational Therapy continues to provide a practical reference tool, which is both an indispensable guide to undergraduates and a practical reference tool for clinicians , in the application of models and theories to practice. Underlining the importance and clinical relevance of theory to practice, the text provides an excellent introduction to the theoretical basis of occupational therapy.' Client-Centred Practice in Occupational Therapy: A Guide to Implementation Edited by Thelma Sumsion At 8th in the list, the editor is one of my undergraduate lecturers, who once chided me for napping during a talk. 'Directed primarily towards health care professionals outside of the United States, Client-Centered Practice in Occupational Therapy continues to be the only book that provides the reader with both the theoretical underpinnings of client-centred practice as well as guidance on the practical application of this approach.' Who knows what authoritarian practices will take place in the USA without a book like this to guide them? Kielhofner's Model of Human Occupation By Renee R. Taylor Nearly there… This book was one of the two that dominated the field. 'Updated throughout with new research, the 5th Edition of MOHO offers a complete presentation of the most widely used model in occupational therapy today. In the new edition, author Renee Taylor preserves Dr. Kielhofner's original voice and contributions, while updating MOHO concepts and their uses in today's practice environment . Throughout the book, readers will see a client-centred approach used to explore what motivates each individual, how they select occupations and establish everyday routines - and how environment influences occupational behaviour. The 5th Edition continues to deliver the latest in MOHO theory, research and application to practice and adds much that is new, including new case studies - that show how MOHO can address the real-life issues depicted - and expanded resources, that enhance teaching and learning.' This probably influences my OT clinical reasoning more than any other profession-specific book I’ve read. And the moment you have all been waiting for… ...will have to wait a little longer! I asked people what book wasn’t shortlisted but should have been ; I was told the missing gem was: Recovery Through Activity By Sue Parkinson It is 'underpinned by the conceptual framework of the Model of Human Occupation and will provide an invaluable tool to practitioners and also create a platform for research. Recovery Through Activity: enables service users to recognise the long-term benefits of occupational participation, by exploring the value of a range of activities provides occupational therapists with a valuable tool to support the use of their core skills provides comprehensive evidence regarding the value of activity, along with a wealth of resources to support implementation of an occupation-focused intervention helps to refocus the practice of occupational therapy in mental health on occupation supports occupational therapy practitioners to engage in their core skills and enhance the quality of service user care in mental health' Finally, we have the winner: Creek's Occupational Therapy and Mental Health Edited by Wendy Bryant With more votes than any other and five times the votes of the lowest scoring finalist, this is another ‘go-to' book for me. This 'seminal textbook for occupational therapy students and practitioners has retained the comprehensive detail of previous editions with significant updates, including the recovery approach informed by a social perspective . Emerging settings for practice are explored and many more service users have been involved as authors. Occupational Therapy and Mental Health is essential reading for students and practitioners across all areas of health and/or social care , in statutory, private or third (voluntary) sectors, and in institutional and community-based settings.' If you want to read a non-occupational therapy mental health book, The Body Keeps The Score annihilated the competition... And that is the result of the survey. You also told me you are interested in an occupational therapy TED-style event, so I might see if I can make that happen. Go forth and read these books! Very little is written about some of them, so add to the reviews and tell people what you thought. Before you smash out your money on hard copies of these, it might be worth considering joining your country's professional body; some of these are available as free e-books to members. If anyone wants to send me a copy of any of these, I’m happy to review it... I hope this was useful. Happy reading. Keir Harding Occupational Therapist Keir provides supervision and thinking space around mental health provision, particularly those viewed as being high risk. He is contactable via Beam Consultancy and is active on X/Twitter ( @keirwales ) and Facebook ( Keir Harding OT ).

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  • Welcome to The Occupational Therapy Hub

    The Occupational Therapy Hub is your global community platform, championing the profession and passionately empowering clinicians, students and those they support. We do this via connection, education and continuing professional development (CPD) resources. Free and Plus+ Memberships are available to everyone. Join today! We believe in the power of occupation for health and wellbeing Established 2017 Your global occupational therapy community The online platform and app , run by practising Occupational Therapists. Shaped by 22,000+ Members , in 195 countries. News + Latest NEW: CPD Rewards Free Membership Membership Plus+ Passionately empowering clinicians, students and those they support The Mission To show the world the value of our health and social care profession . To share knowledge and resources, across an international community. To provide a community of practice , reducing geographical and professional isolation. Community dashboard Circles Independent Practitioners Private · 91 members Request To Join Mental Health Public · 235 members Join Neurology Public · 190 members Join Wheelchairs and Specialist Seating Public · 38 members Join GEOTA Private · 2 members Request To Join Paediatrics Public · 191 members Join Show More Emma Barteau Dash · Feb 06 International Mental Health Charmi Shah Dash · Feb 12, 2019 Introducing your free Occupational Therapy Journal Club Theodora Howells Dash · Jan 27 UK / Dementia Heather Tucker Feb 26, 2021 OT in specialist trauma services for adults bill walsh Jun 02, 2024 Wanted :) Cheryl Goldsmith Dash · Dec 31, 2024 Useful resources Kelly Daniels Dash · Dec 31, 2024 Occupational Therapy Graduate School Textbooks Kelly Daniels Dash · Nov 20, 2024 An Introduction to Splinting for the New Graduate & Novice Clinician Kelly Daniels Dash · Dec 31, 2024 Kinesiology for Occupational Therapy by Melinda Rybski. Like New. Graduate Book Latest OT CPD Courses (Plus+) Supporting Communication: The SLT-OT Synergy 2 Plans Available More info / Join OT as a Helping Hand with Multiple Sclerosis 2 Plans Available More info / Join Therapy Article Highlights Clinical Reference The Kawa Model 'Wuurrks' as a Group OT Intervention Clinical Reference How can Assistive Technology give more Autonomy to People with limited Arm Mobility? OT Interventions (Plus+) Effective Delegation: Enhancing Collaboration Between Occupational Therapists and Rehabilitation Support Workers "The Occupational Therapy Hub is a great source of content and connection. Well done! I will share it with the rest of our team." Norma - Care Expert; Specialist Occupational Therapist; Manual Handling Consultant (LinkedIn, 2024) Testimonials Hub News Hub News Plus+ Human hands are astonishing tools. Here's why robots are struggling to match them 'One of the most hugely sophisticated and physiologically intricate parts of the body. The human hand has more than 30 muscles, 27 joints alongside a network of ligaments and tendons... There are 17,000+ touch receptors and nerve endings in the palm alone. These features allow our hands to perform a breadth of highly complex tasks, through a range of different movements.' Access this latest news and other stories from the profession worldwide, as part of Membership Plus+ . 25/01/2025 OT Updates (Plus+) Plus+ Research trends and hotspots of post-stroke upper limb dysfunction Restoration of fine motor skills is significantly more challenging versus lower limb recovery, greatly impacting the daily lives of patients. There is therefore an increasing urgency for study on the upper limb function in stroke. This 2024 bibliometric and visualisation analysis comprised 1,938 articles from 1,897 institutions, 354 journals and 53 countries or regions. Plus+ Members can r ead this paper within the Neurology theme of the Research Portal. 18/01/2025 Research Portal (Plus+) Plus+ 'Supporting Communication: The SLT-OT Synergy'. A new OT CPD Course! Skills of the spoken and written word can be difficult for some to initiate, develop and strengthen. This can impact on personal and professional growth, especially in a progressive world of diverse communication methods. Take this new short course to discover unique and shared approaches of Occupational Therapy and Speech and Language Therapy, in overcoming broad expressive challenges. Test and self-reflective sections earn you a CPD certificate and Hub Badge. As with all others, this course is included in Plus+ Membership , at no extra cost. 12/01/2025 OT CPD Courses (Plus+) Free OT Circles discussion: Occupational therapist develops affordable community housing Krista is developing housing in partnership with a local school district, affordable to median income households and below. "Included will be universal design, on-site childcare and a multipurpose community space... I am so grateful for my background in OT that has informed every step of this project so far. I look forward to connecting with other OT practitioners." This discussion can be found within the Accessibility & Adaptation OT Circle - one of our free learning and development networks! Join it here, or on-the-go, via The OT Hub app . 11/01/2025 OT Circles Free An Introduction to Splinting for the New Graduate & Novice Clinician "Research shows that new graduates do not have the adequate experience or background when it comes to fabricating splints for patients, which is making these new grads unconfident with their orthotic fabrication skills. This channel was designed to assist these clinicians, who may need extra guidance with step-by-step directions" - Kelly Daniels OTD OTRL. Learn more and watch it free here - or on-the-go, via The OT Hub app . 30/12/2024 Therapy Forum Free Growing occupational therapy together, with added rewards! We're officially launching CPD Rewards . We know OT professionals must engage in career-long continuing professional development (CPD). The Hub Team believes that collaboration is key to us all achieving this; shared learning grows resources for everyone - and adds to your CPD... So how do CPD Rewards work? Get involved in a selection of activities on the Hub and receive a Hub Badge for each. Collecting four badges earns you a reward: One year's free Membership Plus+ ! Learn more and participate via the button below. 28/12/2024 NEW: CPD Rewards

  • Social Prescribing | The Occupational Therapy Hub

    Useful resources and services, to enhance your care and career. < Specialisms Service Directory Social Prescribing Useful services and external resources, for your care and career. This is an expanding directory and current community suggestions are not definitive. K now of a service or resource that should be featured? Suggest an entry A connected society: A strategy for tackling loneliness (HM Government) The relationships we have with our friends, family, neighbours and colleagues are, for many of us, the most important things in our lives. Increasingly, we understand the link between having strong and meaningful social connections and living a healthy and successful life. And we see that having more connected communities means a more thriving, productive society, in which we can all contribute and live fulfilling lives. [PDF document from the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport] [UK GOVERNMENT DOCUMENT; INFORMATION APPLICABLE WORLDWIDE] Explore further > Delivering a primary care-based social prescribing initiative: a qualitative study of the benefits and challenges (Br J Gen Pract) Authors : Skivington, K., Smith, M., Chng, N.R., Mackenzie, M., Wyke, S. and Mercer, S.W. Journal : British Journal of General Practice, 2018; 68 (672): e487-e494 Background: Social prescribing is a collaborative approach to improve inter-sectoral working between primary health care and community organisations. The Links Worker Programme (LWP) is a social prescribing initiative in areas of high deprivation in Glasgow, Scotland, that is designed to mitigate the negative impacts of the social determinants of health. Aim: To investigate issues relevant to implementing a social prescribing programme to improve inter-sectoral working to achieve public health goals. [UK JOURNAL; ACCESSIBLE AND RELEVANT WORLDWIDE] Explore further > Social Prescribing (NHS England) Social prescribing is a way for local agencies to refer people to a link worker. Link workers give people time, focusing on ‘what matters to me’ and taking a holistic approach to people’s health and wellbeing. They connect people to community groups and statutory services for practical and emotional support. Link workers also support existing community groups to be accessible and sustainable, and help people to start new groups, working collaboratively with all local partners. Social prescribing works for a wide range of people, including people: with one or more long-term conditions who need support with their mental health who are lonely or isolated who have complex social needs which affect their wellbeing [UK NATIONAL HEALTH SERVICE; INFORMATION RELEVANT WORLDWIDE] Explore further > What is social prescribing? (The King's Fund) Social prescribing, sometimes referred to as community referral, is a means of enabling GPs, nurses and other primary care professionals to refer people to a range of local, non-clinical services. Recognising that people’s health is determined primarily by a range of social, economic and environmental factors, social prescribing seeks to address people’s needs in a holistic way. It also aims to support individuals to take greater control of their own health. Social prescribing schemes can involve a variety of activities which are typically provided by voluntary and community sector organisations. Examples include volunteering, arts activities, group learning, gardening, befriending, cookery, healthy eating advice and a range of sports. [UK-BASED ORGANISATION; INFORMATION APPLICABLE WORLDWIDE] Explore further >

  • Older People | The Occupational Therapy Hub

    Useful resources and services, to enhance your care and career. < Specialisms Service Directory Older People Useful services and external resources, for your care and career. This is an expanding directory and current community suggestions are not definitive. K now of a service or resource that should be featured? Suggest an entry AccessAble The UK's leading provider of access information. Providing independence and choice. On our website you'll find detailed access information to thousands of venues across the UK and the Republic of Ireland: shops, pubs, restaurants, cinemas, theatres, railway stations, hotels, universities, hospitals and more. Our mission is to maximise independence and choice for disabled people in accessing their local area and the places we all want to visit. We work on behalf of Local Authorities, top Universities, NHS Trusts and private sector organisations to publish detailed access information on well over 125,000 places of interest across the UK and the Republic of Ireland. We also have a number of prominent strategic partnerships, particularly in the travel and tourism sector, with organisations such as Visit England, Visit London (London & Partners/Greater London Authority), Tourism For All and Open Britain. Developed by disabled people, for disabled people . We go the extra mile because disabled people have told us: a venue which self-reports its access can all too often miss, overlook or fail to appreciate the reality of the access they provide the majority of venues do not have the expertise or the time to go into the detail that many disabled people need to have to make an effective judgement about the suitability of access. Finally because what’s accessible for one person is not necessarily accessible for another, our independence means “we say as we see it”, providing the facts so you can make an informed choice. [UK SERVICE] Explore further > Alzheimer Scotland - Action on Dementia Alzheimer Scotland is the leading dementia organisation in Scotland. We campaign for the rights of people with dementia and their families. We provide a wide range of specialist services, community activities, information and advice - for people with dementia and their carers, at every stage of the dementia journey. [UK SERVICE; AVAILABLE ACROSS SCOTLAND] Explore further > Bristol Older Peoples Forum BOPFs aim is that every older person in the city is an equal, valued, participating member of the community who can influence the decisions which affect their lives. (Read more on the About Us pages). Our manifesto , launched in 2016, sets out the priorities in achieving our aim through influencing key providers and decision makers in the city, and by working with others. It is fully supported by Mayor Marvin Rees, Kerry McCarthy MP, many councillors and others. Please read it and let us know what you think – it belongs to all older people in the city. Explore further > CareFlex CareFlex offers an expert, free, no-obligation assessment service, to ensure the client gets the right chair to meet their needs; considering the key criteria: posture and stability, functionality, pressure relief and, of course, comfort. Our chairs are custom built in Devon, by a workforce that has a strong sense of responsibility to provide well-made chairs that will last. We are an ethical company - not solely profit focused - and we want to make a difference. Through providing pioneering, high quality products and education, we want every individual to have access to the best possible posture and pressure management product for them – to improve their quality of life and provide reassurance for their care providers. In recent clinical trials by the University of Salford, our chairs were found to be comfortable and to aid occupation and feelings of wellbeing. Our WaterCell Technology® - which is at the heart of our seating - proved to be effective. It provides a reliable and continuous low-pressure solution, for people at medium to high risk of pressure damage. Remember, 95% of pressure ulcers are preventable, which can save considerable pain and anguish for patients - and save the NHS literally billions of pounds a year. [UK-BASED; SERVICES AVAILABLE WORLDWIDE] Explore further > Enabling activity in palliative care: focus groups among occupational therapists BMC Palliative Care (Open Access) Authors : Tavemark, S., Hermansson, L.N. and Blomberg, K. Published : 7 February 2019 Background Activity participation may support clients in palliative care to maintain dignity and quality of life. Literature and policy documents state that occupational therapists should be part of the team in palliative care but provide limited guidance on how interventions should be employed. Thus, the aim was to describe occupational therapists’ experiences of enabling activity for seriously ill and dying clients. Methods In a descriptive, qualitative study, three focus groups with occupational therapists (n = 14) were conducted. The data were analysed using qualitative content analysis. Results The findings showed that occupational therapists enabled activity in clients in palliative care while considering the client’s individual preferences. Motivation was seen to facilitate activity, while environmental restrictions were thought to act as barriers. The occupational therapists wanted to bring activities physically closer to the clients and felt a need for more client contact to enable activity. Conclusions Occupational therapists’ interventions in palliative care include prioritising and planning activities according to clients’ preferences and capacities. The individual nature of these activities makes it impossible to create standardised protocol for interventions, but the study results can be used to describe occupational therapists’ strategies and to guide their work, especially for occupational therapists without experience in palliative care. Explore further > Mental Capacity Act - e-Learning course (SCIE) This resource from the Social Care Institute for Excellence (SCIE) explores the UK's Mental Capacity Act 2005. It includes best interests decision-making, and how to support people to make their own decisions. The course is for everyone who looks after or cares for someone, for example, doctors, nurses, care assistants, social workers, and family members. [UK ORGANISATION; E-LEARNING COURSE RELEVANT WORLDWIDE] Explore further > Muggi Muggi is an innovative new product which enables hot and cold drinks to be carried safely in any environment. This unique tray enables up to four mugs to be carried safely in one hand, leaving the other hand free to support the user. Muggi also fits on to walking frames and can be conveniently placed on the lap of wheelchair users. It catches unwanted spillages and features non-slip rubber feet; finger and thumb holds make it easy to carry for young or old hands. An increasing number of occupational therapists, sufferers of Parkinson’s, arthritis and wheelchair users are finding muggi invaluable in their daily lives. Made from lightweight, but extremely tough Polypropylene, muggi comes in seven vibrant colours blue, grey, red, purple, green, pink, a black recycled material. Explore further > MyLiferaft MyLiferaft is an online place for an individual’s health and well-being information that helps to connect them to you and others in their care circle. All their information is stored safely and easily, allowing only those that they choose to be able to access it. It’s not just about the facts and figures; they can store information such as “I love a cup of tea with my medication!” or “I’m scared of injections!” This allows those that care for them to know what helps them to feel better, and their care circle to feel better informed to support them. [UK: SOUTHAMPTON-BASED SERVICE; AVAILABLE NATIONWIDE] Explore further > OT Flourish OT Flourish helps OT practitioners and students be the best they can be when working with older adults. We do this through: The Learning Lab Membership: helping you be skilled, creative, current & have the resources you need with hundreds of treatment idea videos, lists and links to patient handouts, tools, assessments, and evaluations, a journal club, exclusive community forum and fun bonuses - just for being a member! OT Flourish Podcast: showcasing relevant interviews, answering questions, current articles and hot topics, but also to getting OT practitioners excited about working with older adults, give actionable ideas that listeners can take and use in their own practice and have some fun along the way! OT Resources: find the CEU discounts, e-books, handouts, forms and products that you have been looking for to ramp up your practice! Blog: free treatment ideas, education and resources to learn, relate and grow as an OT practitioner and student. Connect with OT Flourish via mchamberlain@seniorsflourish.com , or social media. [US-BASED RESOURCE; AVAILABLE WORLDWIDE] Explore further > Seating Matters Together with a team of clinicians, engineers and designers, Seating Matters have designed the world’s leading range of specialised seating, to improve comfort and quality of life for those with postural and pressure management needs. Martina Tierney - Occupational Therapist and Clinical Director - has specialised in seating throughout her career. However, she struggled to find chairs to meet the clinical and functional needs of her patients. Martina realised that her patients needed pressure care chairs which were designed to properly fit the patient’s size and were easily adjustable in order to meet their long term needs. She and her team design and produce therapeutic chairs that meet pressure management, posture, comfort, mobility and functional requirements. Her sons have created a person-centred organisation that has the patient at the heart of every decision. To change the world of healthcare seating, Seating Matters are increasing the knowledge available and sharing it freely, to improve patient care and encourage evidence based practice. [IRELAND-BASED; SERVICES AVAILABLE WORLDWIDE] Explore further > Sheffield Shamblers Do you enjoy walking but want to do this at a leisurely pace? Fed up with walking groups that want to beat the clock over the distance of the walk? Or maybe you are new to walking and fear that you won't be able to keep up with experienced walkers? Then come and join the Sheffield Shamblers walking group! Health walks are an ideal introduction to walking for those who haven't been walking before, are bored at home, or perhaps recovering from an illness or operation. We are a group of people of all ages, from every walk of life, who enjoy walking and having a good time. Pleasant company and a good sense of humour is essential on all our walks. If you are looking for formal walks organised with military precision and strict codes of conduct, then this club is not for you! Dogs are welcome, but must be kept on a lead at all times. [UK: SHEFFIELD ORGANISATION] Explore further > Stroke Core Competencies - Stroke Training and Awareness Resources (STARS) This e-learning resource provides a learning tool for health and social care staff to enable them to become more knowledgeable and skilful in the challenging area of stroke care. The resource is based on the Stroke Core Competencies which were published by NHS Education for Scotland (NES) in 2005. The website provides a multidisciplinary resource which focuses on a wide range of core knowledge and skills required by all staff when delivering stroke care. The Core Competencies provide an interactive way of learning with quizzes, animations, video clips, and case scenarios. + Stroke Advancing Modules > [UK TRAINING RESOURCE; AVAILABLE WORLDWIDE] Explore further >

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