During this pandemic, there are a lot of unknowns. With the unknowns, there are safety concerns, especially involving the elderly. The best way to decrease the spread of COVID-19 is to maintain social distancing as well as social isolating yourself if you are a high risk individual. Being able to keep an individual safe in their own home decreases the risk and the chance of spreading COVID-19. Occupational therapists understand the importance of home safety during this uncertain time.
During the month of April, which is Occupational Therapy Month, awareness is drawn towards occupational therapists and their overall role in healthcare, specifically for home health during this trying time. Many times I complete a home safety assessment, which involves assessing the individual’s ability to complete tasks within their own home, making recommendations to ensure the individual’s ability to remain there, and assessing tripping hazards. Some tripping hazards include throw rugs and cords.
Beyond home assessments, an occupational therapist can assist with daily tasks, strengthening programs, increasing independence, and make recommended referrals to other healthcare professionals to allow the individual to remain safely at home.
A main area of focus for occupational therapists is activities of daily living. These include dressing, bathing, transfers, grooming/hygiene, meal preparation, etc. Occupational therapists address areas of concern to improve the individual’s ability to safely complete as much of the task as possible. We can recommend the use of adaptive equipment, which can be used in many ways in various rooms throughout the home.
During this time of uncertainty, there are many options to access occupational therapy. Safe practices are currently implemented by my practice at Prairie Lakes Healthcare. Prairie Lakes Occupational Therapists can see you in the home and have an option for telehealth visit. If you have any questions or concerns regarding personal home safety for yourself or a loved one, please contact your physician directly or Prairie Lakes Rehab Services to state your concern.