Kaye (2006) reports, “Loss of independence and role can
result in social death prior to biological death. Occupational therapy can help
a person to adopt new and appropriate functions and roles and to maintain
self-esteem” (p.214).
I was able to witness this as the occupational therapist
from John Taylor Hospice assisted Paul.
21 August 2014
“Beth the OT will be here. You can be here too...part
of your training!”
Beth was able to supply equipment to Paul and also educate
him regarding shortness of breath and fatigue management. Due to this
intervention Paul was able to maintain independence with self cares until a few
days before he died.
This is an area which is commonly very important for end of
life individuals:
“Facilitating patients to have control is critical” (T. Naismith, LOROS Hospice, personal communication, 17 June 2015).
“For some patients maintaining a sense of ‘normality’ and
trying to carry on with their usual routines is important, especially self
care” (R. Harrison, LOROS Hospice, personal communication, 17 June 2015).
These points are addressed in the NZAOT palliative care
position statement
The following presentation gives an overview of the benefits
of occupational therapy to individuals in palliative care.
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