bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Occupational Therapy in Progressive Neurology: A Rehabilitative Approach
Authors: Foley Geraldine
Published: April 2015

People diagnosed with a progressive neurological disorder represent a significant proportion of the population that lives with a neurological disease. Neurological impairment may vary between different conditions and the rates of progression differ. However, progressive impairment has a direct effect on activity, participation and wellbeing. The occupational therapy process attempts to alleviate and/or remedy the direct effects of impairment in order to maximise activity and participation. The basic premise of neurorehabilitation and the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health fit well with occupational therapy practice.
The Professionalisation of Occupational Therapy: A Continuing Challenge
Authors: Clouston Teena J , Whitcombe Steven W
Published: April 2015

Professions are socially constructed phenomena. Accordingly, an understanding of what is meant by a profession, with its associated social positioning and how that is interpreted, is governed by historical, temporal, cultural and ideological influences. For occupational therapy, such an understanding can be a real challenge. This is because of a dichotomy between its ontological, person-centred approach and the medically dominated constructs prevalent in the professionalisation of all caring professions and still inherent in health care arenas today (Etzioni 1969, Fairhurst 1981, Rivett 1997, Freidson 2001).

As a consequence of this traditionally accepted dominance and the roles ascribed to or enabled by this positioning, the professional identity of occupational therapy can be limited by the politics of power at the organisational level. This can shape how occupational therapy is understood, not only by significant others but also by the profession itself. Professional consistency and cohesion, both inside and outside the profession, could therefore be challenged, unless individual actors, organisational attitudes and social constructs change. There is a need both to confront and to accept the ever-changing nature of professionalism and the meaning of occupation in the postmodern world.
Conceptualising Recovery in Mental Health Rehabilitation
Authors: Lloyd Chris , Waghorn Geoff , Williams Philip Lee
Published: April 2015

Recovery as a concept has gained increased attention in the field of mental health. There is an expectation that service providers use a recovery framework in their work. This raises the question of what recovery means, and how it is conceptualised and operationalised. It is proposed that service providers approach the application of recovery principles by considering systematically individual recovery goals in multiple domains, encompassing clinical recovery, personal recovery, social recovery and functional recovery.

This approach enables practitioners to focus on service users' personal recovery goals while considering parallel goals in the clinical, social, and role-functioning domains. Practitioners can reconceptualise recovery as involving more than symptom remission, and interventions can be tailored to aspects of recovery of importance to service users.

In order to accomplish this shift, practitioners will require effective assessments, access to optimal treatment and care, and the capacity to conduct recovery planning in collaboration with service users and their families and carers. Mental health managers can help by fostering an organisational culture of service provision that supports a broader focus than that on clinical recovery alone, extending to client-centred recovery planning in multiple recovery domains.
Older People Falling Out of Bed: Restraint, Risk and Safety
Authors: Hughes Rhidian
Published: April 2015

Bedside rails are used for older people's safety in order to prevent them from falling out of bed and suffering injury. Bed rails can constitute restraint and the principles underpinning mental capacity legislation illustrate good practice when equipment is used in ways that may restrict people's freedom. The use of bed rails illustrates broader tensions in the care of older people: tensions between ensuring the safety of older people and maintaining independence and freedom, including older people taking risks. Person-centred care emphasises that the views of older people, their family carers and the professionals must all be taken into account when assessing older people's care needs and developing risk assessments and care plans. There needs to be further education and debate about positive practice in the use of bed rails because, all too often, the use of these devices is taken for granted. Staff need support to ensure that they put the best interests of older people at the centre of all decisions about their care.
To Provide or Not to Provide Treatment? That is the Question
Authors: Kolehmainen Niina , Francis Jill , McKee Lorna
Published: April 2015

It is generally accepted that whether or not a client receives occupational therapy should be based on the client's needs not on the therapist that the client sees. However, in the United Kingdom there is little evidence to show that treatment provision is similar between therapists or even that therapists share a common rationale for providing treatment. This research investigated paediatric occupational therapists' beliefs about and intentions to provide treatment for children with coordination difficulties.

Ten paediatric occupational therapists were recruited from two National Health Service Scotland Health Boards. The data were collected at one time point. Intentions and beliefs about treatment provision were explored and measured both at general and at case (situation-specific) levels. Quantitative and qualitative data were collected concurrently. Statistical and thematic approaches to analysis were applied.

The findings showed that the therapists shared similar general intentions and beliefs about providing treatment. However, the situation-specific intentions to provide treatment varied considerably between the therapists. The situation-specific intentions were characterised by consideration of the client's individual circumstances and a variation in the interpretations made about the information available. The beliefs that possibly contributed to the variation in the situation-specific intentions were also identified. This research informs the occupational therapy profession about issues related to the expectation that treatment provision is similar between therapists.
Using Theory to Underpin an Integrated Occupational Therapy Service through the Canadian Model of Occupational Performance
Authors: Boniface Gail , Fedden Tamsin , Hurst Heather , Mason Margot , Phelps Caroline , Reagon Carly , Waygood Sian
Published: April 2015

The aim of this action research study was to embed the theoretical tenets of the Canadian Model of Occupational Performance and its structures in a way that was appropriate to, and would be used by, all staff within an integrated health and social care setting. The action research involved 10 phases of reflection and action, with data analysis occurring between the cycles.

The findings showed the importance of taking time to embed theory before implementing model structures in order to prevent those structures, and particularly the paperwork, becoming superficial. In addition, the importance of using theoretical structures (models) flexibly and adapting them to particular services was identified.

A more generally applicable finding was that occupational therapists can and should demonstrate their theory through their practice and that this can be done by using a model to illustrate their clinical and, more specifically, their conditional clinical reasoning (Mattingly and Fleming 1994). In addition, the demonstration of clinical reasoning proved vital in making the client-centred and occupational beliefs of the model overt.

It was concluded that implementing theory and using occupation-based literature (Williams and Bannigan 2008) in this way can take a long time but is worthwhile because it provides a sound and strong base for the profession's identity.
Pilot Study of an Educational Programme for Caregivers of People Ageing with Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Finlayson Marcia , Preissner Katharine , Garcia Jennifer
Published: April 2015

The purpose of this study was to examine the outcomes and participant-reported benefits of a multiple sclerosis (MS) caregiver education programme called ‘Meeting the Challenges of MS’. Nineteen caregivers were recruited to this community-based pilot study; 12 completed all sessions. Occupational therapists facilitated five 2-hour weekly sessions, addressing strategies to problem solve the physical and emotional challenges of caregiving. Questionnaires were administered before and after the programme to determine if changes were achieved in caregivers' self-efficacy, abilities to prepare for and manage caregiving challenges, and abilities to monitor and implement personal health-promoting strategies. Focus groups obtained participants' feedback on the programme. All study procedures were approved by the university ethics committee.

The participants reported that they were more prepared for their caregiving role (p = 0.02), were able to reframe their experiences positively (p = 0.01) and sought more practical assistance (p = 0.02). Some tests performed poorly and need to be re-examined to determine their potential for use in future studies. Feedback from the participants emphasised the value of interacting with and learning from other caregivers to develop effective problem-solving strategies and obtain peer support.

The research team concluded that efforts are needed to address recruitment challenges and improve outcome measures to move this work forward. The participant feedback suggests that these efforts are worth pursuing.
An Evaluation of a Fatigue Management Intervention for People with Acquired Brain Injury: An Exploratory Study
Authors: Cooper Jacqui , Reynolds Frances , Bateman Andrew
Published: April 2015

Fatigue is one of the most prevalent symptoms reported after an acquired brain injury, reflecting a probable combination of factors: pathology, medication side effects, mood or sleep disorders, reduced exercise tolerance, decreased nutrition and hydration. Despite its prevalence and the profoundly negative effects that fatigue has on quality of life, there is little evidence regarding the effectiveness of fatigue management interventions.

This exploratory study investigated whether a weekly fatigue education group, lasting for 8 weeks, had an effect on reported fatigue, anxiety, depression, sleepiness and quality of life. Pre-intervention and post-intervention measures were taken using three standardised scales, the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, the Epworth Sleepiness Scale and the Short Form–36 quality of life measure, together with the unpublished Brain Injury Fatigue Scale. A 10-point rating scale was also used to assess fatigue on a weekly basis. In addition, the participants completed written qualitative self-reports concerning the impact of fatigue on daily life, their perceptions of fatigue and their fatigue management strategies.

Seven people joined the programme. There was a significant change in the quality of life measure from pre-intervention to post-intervention, but not in the other measures. In written qualitative accounts, the participants reported managing their fatigue better and finding group support helpful. The results suggest a need for further research into the fatigue management for people with acquired brain injury.
Voluntary Work for Adults with Mental Health Problems: An Exploration of the Perspectives of Recruiters
Authors: Farrell Carol , Bryant Wendy
Published: April 2015

Volunteering is often considered with people with mental health problems as a route to social inclusion and paid employment. In order to gain access to volunteering opportunities, liaison is required with voluntary organisations and their representatives, who are known as recruiters.

This qualitative study explored the views of nine recruiters of volunteers, focusing on their perspectives on mental health problems and drawing on their experiences of recruiting people with mental health problems. The aim was to inform recommendations for strategies that might improve future placements. A purposive sample of nine recruiters from a London borough participated in semi-structured interviews. The data were analysed using interpretative phenomenological analysis.

The findings suggest that volunteer organisations reflect wider experiences of stigma and social exclusion within society. Although some recruiters attempted to be accommodating, significant barriers existed and led to a system of occupational apartheid. Overcoming this situation requires partnerships between occupational therapists, service users and voluntary organisations, working closely to secure a more inclusive place in society for people with mental health problems.
The Clinical Utility of a Tool for Optimising Written Productivity
Authors: Schwellnus Heidi , Boschen Kathryn , Law Mary , Young Nancy
Published: April 2015

Occupational therapists working with children with handwriting issues lack a standard framework for selecting treatment activities. This study investigated the utility of a decision-making guide, the Tool for Optimising Written Productivity (TOW-P). In the study, 14 occupational therapists used the TOW-P to guide the selection of interventions for 60 children with handwriting issues. The therapists completed two questionnaires about the usefulness of the tool. Feedback was used to modify the structure and format of the tool. The results indicated that the TOW-P provides a clinically useful framework to assist therapists in the selection of appropriate intervention strategies for children with written productivity issues.
Exploring the Learning Process on a Role-Emerging Practice Placement: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Fieldhouse Jon , Fedden Tamsin
Published: April 2015

Two second-year occupational therapy students undertook a role-emerging placement (REP) — their third of four professional practice placements — at a therapeutic community with no on-site occupational therapy service. A qualitative study exploring the nature of the learning on this REP shows how deep learning took place and how this enabled the students to gain a strong sense of their own developing professional knowledge and skills. This report also highlights that the students' specific occupational therapy input made a unique contribution to the community's work, a view validated by the therapeutic community's own staff.
An Evaluation of a Preceptorship Programme for Newly Qualified Occupational Therapists
Authors: Morley Mary
Published: April 2015

Following the introduction of preceptorship as a requirement for most newly qualified practitioners in the National Health Service in the United Kingdom, a preceptorship programme for occupational therapists was designed. This was the first of its kind within occupational therapy and was endorsed by the College of Occupational Therapists. Participation in preceptorship was intended to ease the transition of newly qualified occupational therapists.

This paper offers a definition of preceptorship for the profession in the United Kingdom and reports on a small qualitative study that evaluated the extent to which the interventions of the preceptorship programme ameliorated the challenges of transition. The evaluation was conducted within a realist framework. Data were collected by semi-structured interviews from four pairs of newly qualified occupational therapists and preceptors during the pilot year. The findings suggest that the preceptorship programme was successful in supporting the development of new practitioners and that implementation was optimised through strong leadership, a learning culture and positive supervision.

This paper contributes to the body of knowledge relating to the transitional experience of occupational therapists and recommends changes to the programme to optimise its effectiveness for practice.
Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction for People with Chronic Conditions
Authors: Thompson Barbara
Published: April 2015

This practice analysis describes the philosophical tenets and methods associated with an 8-week mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) programme offered to a heterogeneous group of community-dwelling individuals living with chronic conditions. The programme was sponsored by an occupational therapy graduate school as a community service and was provided by the author. The programme evaluation suggested that participants learned new ways of living, which synthesised change and acceptance strategies. The participatory learning environment, mindfulness training and lifestyle modifications associated with MBSR enhanced the participants' occupational adaptation, sense of empowerment and experience of flow during the performance of occupations. MBSR is an evidence-based approach that is consistent with the occupational therapy emphasis on health promotion and satisfying engagement in life.
A Survey of Burnout of the Mental Health Occupational Therapy Staff in the Psychiatric Hospital, Bahrain
Authors: Jahrami Haitham
Published: April 2015

Emotional burnout is associated with decreased job performance and poor career satisfaction. It has special significance in mental health care settings, where clinicians experience psychological, emotional and physical stress. This study aimed to determine the extent to which occupational therapy staff employed in a Bahrain mental health setting were affected by burnout.

Questionnaires were sent to all clinicians in the Psychiatric Hospital, Bahrain (n = 261). An effective response rate of 58% (n = 153) was achieved, with 13 of the responses being from the occupational therapy department. The research measure was the Maslach Burnout Inventory (MBI), comprising emotional exhaustion, depersonalisation and personal accomplishment.

The occupational therapy staff experienced a high level of emotional exhaustion, moderate depersonalisation and high personal accomplishment. They differed from other groups on the depersonalisation scale, scoring higher than any other professional group. The results are congruent with those of previous studies and it is proposed that the focus of future research should be on identifying causes of burnout.
Reliability of P-drive in occupational therapy following a short training session: A promising instrument measuring seniors’ on-road driving competencies
Authors: Vaucher Paul , Di Biase Cyndia , Lobsiger Emma , Margot-Cattin Isabel , Favrat Bernard , Patomella Ann-Helen
Published: April 2015

Introduction

Occupational therapists could play an important role in facilitating driving cessation for ageing drivers. This, however, requires an easy-to-learn, standardised on-road evaluation method. This study therefore investigates whether use of ‘P-drive’ could be reliably taught to occupational therapists via a short half-day training session.

Method

Using the English 26-item version of P-drive, two occupational therapists evaluated the driving ability of 24 home-dwelling drivers aged 70 years or over on a standardised on-road route. Experienced driving instructors’ on-road, subjective evaluations were then compared with P-drive scores.

Results

Following a short half-day training session, P-drive was shown to have almost perfect between-rater reliability (ICC2,1 = 0.950, 95% CI 0.889 to 0.978). Reliability was stable across sessions including the training phase even if occupational therapists seemed to become slightly less severe in their ratings with experience. P-drive’s score was related to the driving instructors’ subjective evaluations of driving skills in a non-linear manner ( R2 = 0.445, p = 0.021).

Conclusion

P-drive is a reliable instrument that can easily be taught to occupational therapists and implemented as a way of standardising the on-road driving test.
The Use of Orthoplast Isoprene Splints in the Treatment of the Acutely Burned Child: Preliminary Report
Authors: Willis Barbara
Published: April 2015

In stating that the formation of contracture deformities is one of the major problems encountered in the treatment of the burned patient, the author describes the steps taken to counteract this problem at the first pediatric hospital specializing in burn care. Desired positioning for the hand and wrist is described and reasons are put forward for the choice of materials used and listed with the equipment necessary for fabrication. The step-by-step method of construction of hand, elbow and knee splints is given with detailed illustration. The decision to write this paper was made following the successful application of over four hundred splints and the interest shown by both resident and visiting medical personnel.
The Selection of Students for Entry into the Paramedical Professions
Authors: Hood A. , McKenzie G. A.
Published: April 2015

The principles of this article, although it was written by an orthoptist and a radiographer, apply to all the paramedical professions, and readers' comments are invited.
Towards Group Effectiveness
Authors: Cracknell Elizabeth
Published: April 2015

This article is an attempt to look at some of the basic factors which influence group effectiveness, although I recognise that the complex nature of group dynamics means that it is often difficult to pinpoint what might be going wrong in a specific group because it can arise from so many varying factors.
Peer Review: Implications for Supervision
Authors: Gill Thelma H.
Published: April 2015

The process of peer review can be a valuable addition to the evaluation system of an occupational therapy department. Input from one's peers can provide a fresh outlook on issues that appear insurmountable to the individual therapist. Therefore, the purpose of this paper is to discuss the process of peer review and to familiarize the reader with the significant variables that must be considered when the establishment of such a process is contemplated.
Outline of a Sensory Integrative Approach with a Chronic Tactile Defensive Schizophrenic
Authors: Leveille Joanne
Published: April 2015

This paper describes the formation of a sensory integrative programme in a provincial psychiatric institution. It describes the method used in selecting potential members for the group, the assessment battery, and the equipment used for the programme. It also presents a case study of a rather atypical male schizophrenic with very poor prognosis. The simple goal is to make the patient happier and more sociable.

The study includes: a brief description of the client's behaviour, prior to and during treatment and, one year later; procedures used and the results gained from this approach.
Multidisciplinary Group Work on a Psychogeriatric Ward
Authors: Jones Glenys M. , Clark Pamela
Published: April 2015

This article shows howa Social Worker andan 0. T. Helper together organised a weekly group for elderly confused patients which succeeded inimproving interpersonal relationships among the patients, helped to alleviate anxiety and was enjoyedby those who took part.
The Golden Jubilee 1932–1982
Authors: Hume Clephane A. , Lock Sidney J.
Published: April 2015

In presenting this brief account of the development of our organisation it has been impossible to pay tribute to all those who have contributed so much and who have enabled us to reach our present status. It has been necessary to mention a few names and to highlight parallel developments in the Scottish Association of Occupational Therapists and the Association of Occupational Therapists, and we regret that many names connected with major developments have had to be left out of this short survey covering half a century.
Occupational Therapy Service
Authors: Cook Val
Published: April 2015

Most Occupational Therapists live and work in or near an urban centre, like the bulk of the population. This is largely true in Scotland as well as the rest of the U.K. Nowhere is the contrast greater than in the Hebrides. The author, based on Benbecula, describes the work of a domiciliary O.T. dealing with disabled people of all ages and conditions, some with limited English, in a widely dispersed, thinly populated rural area.
Alcohol Problems
Authors: Boyd Lesley J.
Published: April 2015

The author describes a programme she has been developing in a multi-disciplinary team at the Alcohol Problems Clinic, Royal Edinburgh Hospital. The programme embodies a practical approach designed to help patients prepare themselves, socially and emotionally, for a life without alcohol. The methods used include discussion, sharing, role playing, psychodramatic techniques and individual counselling.
The Challenge of Setting up a Day Hospital for the Elderly Mentally ILL
Authors: Phillips Helen
Published: April 2015

The aim of this article is to show some of the problems and rewards of setting up a Day Hospital for the Elderly III and indicate how an effective service is evolving.
Basic Work Assessment and Rehabilitation Procedures
Authors: Ross Phyllis J.
Published: April 2015

Job security and a good work record are very important to everyone especially at times of high unemployment, recession and redundancies. It is therefore very important that rehabilitation after a disabling accident or illness aims at returning the newly disabled to work as speedily as possible. Positive intensive rehabilitation and work assessment undertaken concurrently can, for many disabled people, cut down the time absent from work. This concurrent approach prevents the frustration and psychological problems that many disabled experience when left at home waiting to get well enough to work and the subseguent loss of the work habit.
Priorities for Research
Authors: Smith Margaret E.
Published: April 2015

In the summer of 1981, the Research and Degree Committee of the College of Occupational Therapists carried out a survey with the aim of finding out how many occupational therapists had research experience or were interested in becoming involved in research, where they were located and what they considered to be the priorities for research in occupational therapy.
Psychosocial Assessment of Short Stay Psychiatric Patients — The Involvement of the Occupational Therapist
Authors: French Gillian , Koch Hugh
Published: April 2015

A psychosocial assessment form and routine for its completion is described. The reasons why this type of assessment is pertinent to occupational therapy activities are discussed. It forms a basis for further assessments and therapy in areas of intrapsychic (cognitive/emotional), interpersonal (marital/social) or occupational/behavioural functioning.
Activities and Aims
Authors: Howard P. A.
Published: April 2015

The work done by patients in the occupational therapy department of a medical rehabilitation centre, was recorded for one day. Both the activities and their purpose were noted. The different types of aims and activities and the frequency of their use were discussed. The different ways that activities were used was also discussed.
The Treatment Aims of Occupational Therapy
Authors: Howard P. A.
Published: April 2015

The aims for activities given to patients in the occupational therapy department of a medical rehabilitation centre, were classified according to guidelines used by the World Federation of Occupational Therapists1 to describe treatment aims. The greatest number of aims fell into the second category which was ‘to restore and/or reinforce functional capacities’. There were difficulties in deciding what the World Federation of Occupational Therapists had intended in their guidelines and also in deciding which categories to put the collected aims into.
New Directions for Industrial Therapy
Authors: Westland Gill
Published: April 2015

This article outlines a new direction for industrial therapy currently being explored in Cambridge, namely a re-examination of therapeutic community concepts and their application to the work situation within the context of workers' co-operatives. The author is Deputy Head Occupational Therapist at Fulbourn Hospital, lives in a housing co-operative, and has been involved in workers' co-operatives for the last 5 years.
An Introduction to Behaviour Therapy Part Two
Authors: Sackett Jo , Fitzgerald James
Published: April 2015

One therapy in which both the occupational therapist and the psychiatric nurse can be directly involved together is behaviour therapy. They may not deal with all aspects of this, and will probably find that it is narrowed down to specific techniques such as dealing with phobic anxieties or supportive training in social skills. It is important, however, for those carrying out such supportive work to have some knowledge and understanding of the scope of behaviour therapy. This article aims to explain some of the terms used in this form of therapy, to look at a few of the techniques and to offer suggestions and ideas for practical application.
Occupational Therapy Assessment of Functional Problems in the Rehabilitation of the Severely Head Injured
Authors: Hadfield Caroline , Tyerman Andrew
Published: April 2015

The multiple and complex problems of the head injured patient require comprehensive and systematic evaluation. While physical and psychological assessments are well established, there is a notable absence of adequately standardised assessments of functional ability for clinical application by occupational therapists. Accordingly, a battery of tests has been devised covering four major areas of functional ability: visual perception; constructional ability; sensorimotor function; and execution of complex instructions. A comparison of the performance of 40 head injured patients with 40 controls is described. Significant group differences were evident for overall performance (representing ability and time factors) on all 12 tests of the battery with the head injured group exhibiting a wide range of problems. The implications of these results and the role of the assessment battery in diagnosis, treatment, and evaluation are discussed.
The Frostig Test: A Review
Authors: Kelly G
Published: April 2015

Within the last few years, more and more occupational therapists practising in Great Britain have been using standardised assessments in their work. Mostly they rely on popular tests which have gained respectability and acceptance in psychology and related professions. However, it is of utmost importance that occupational therapists are fully aware of how the tests they are using are thought of by a wide variety of people. The purpose of this article was to search the literature and discover what had been said about the Marianne Frostig Developmental Test of Visual Perception. The Frostig Programme for Individual Training and Remediation in Visual Perception is also examined briefly. It is hoped that this review will be of use in helping occupational therapists who are either using the test or thinking about using it to decide whether it is appropriate for their purpose.
Video — An Aid for the ′80s
Authors: Barefoot Caryl
Published: April 2015

The rehabilitation department of the Querns Hospital, a peripheral geriatric hospital, has had over a year's experience in the use of videotape equipment. The author describes the advantages of using such equipment, the benefits to both patients and staff, and its potential in home visits and teaching. She provides a list of technical hints and concludes that the videotape can add a new dimension to everyday patient management.
Mental Handicap: Why are There So Few Occupational Therapists?
Authors: Candlish Erica
Published: April 2015

The author divides her time between St Loye's and the Langdon Hospital for the mentally handicapped at Dawlish. This article was written as a result of an attendance at a study day on the subject of mental handicap, held in London. The author met with a number of occupational therapists who were working single-handed or with only part-time support. She asked herself the following question: if, each year, hundreds of enthusiastic graduates flow out through the occupational therapy college gates, why do so many jostle for vacancies in the psychiatric or physical field and why do so few turn towards mental handicap? She investigated the subject, listening to a wide variety of suggestions put forward by numerous occupational therapists throughout the past year. She has included those which were a recurring theme.
Occupational Therapy: The Basic Concept behind the Conventional Term
Authors: Bassan L , Alfieri V
Published: April 2015

It is well known that the history of occupational therapy goes back to ancient times, although it was not until the Second World War that it began to receive greater attention and wider use. Today, despite important advances in studies and applications, a certain amount of empiricism persists, especially in Italy where there are not as yet distinct schools for occupational therapy and where consequently there is some criticism of the profession.
Teaching Typing to Children with Cerebral Palsy
Authors: Fussey Graham
Published: April 2015

This article describes a method of teaching typing to children with cerebral palsy for communicative and therapeutic purposes using electric typewriters. Factors in evaluation of the handicap are outlined by flow chart analysis for possible remediation. A procedure of a teaching technique for hands affected by spasticity was devised. This was employed in three case studies which are documented. Successful involvement of a bilateral approach in typing was achieved with differing degrees of finger movement. Summary observations are noted.
Understanding the Deaf
Authors: Renwick Lois M
Published: April 2015

This article sets out some of the problems associated with deafness for those concerned with rehabilitation and provides an awareness that specialized units do exist to deal with these problems. It gives an insight into the intensive work being undertaken in the Regional Deaf Unit using familiar occupational therapy techniques but with a different means of communication. The unit has been successful in rehabilitating and resettling many of its patients but there is still a waiting list for those needing such specialized help.
Evolving Ideas
Authors: Robertson Judith
Published: April 2015

This article provides some thoughts on the development of creative thinking in planning an occupational therapy programme. It discusses staff attitudes, experimenting with new ideas, and marrying the aims of treatment to the patient's abilities and interests. The article shows how the technique of brain-storming can be used in this process and concludes that inspiration can be found through it.
A Rating Scale for Use in Horticultural Therapy
Authors: Woodward Susan , Holden Peter
Published: April 2015

A senior occupational therapist was appointed to evaluate the work of a horticultural therapy unit in West Dorset. Together with a senior clinical psychologist she began by developing a rating scale to be used in measuring work skills, health and social behaviour in clients referred to the unit. In this paper, the authors explain how they modified an existing psychiatric rating scale to one better suited for use in a horticultural work setting. Instructions for raters, the scoring system, and how to pilot a new scale are all discussed, as are aspects of reliability and validity. Further comments on the scale from several interested professionals are also included.
The Unicentre: An Activity Centre for the Mentally Ill the First Two Years
Authors: Gan Sue , Pullen G P
Published: April 2015

This paper describes the development in Oxford of an activity centre for the chronically mentally ill based at Littlemore Hospital. The centre is open to both day patients and hospital inpatients, all of whom are expected to choose activities for themselves from the many on offer. The centre functions as an autonomous component of the Oxfordshire Psychiatric Rehabilitation Service and has its own multidisciplinary management team. The patient members have also played an important role in the centre's development.
Registered Mental Nurse Students in an Occupational Therapy Department
Authors: Ilott Irene
Published: April 2015

This article describes how the learning experiences for registered mental nurse students are organized in the occupational therapy department at Rauceby Hospital. The present structure of objectives, programme and assessments was designed to complement the facilities available and the scheme appears to be successful.
Administrative Competencies in Occupational Therapy: A Follow-up Study
Authors: Gill Thelma
Published: April 2015

This paper discusses the results of a follow-up study that consisted of the administration of a questionnaire to four Canadian groups of directors of occupational therapy departments. The responses to the questionnaire are discussed in detail and the results are compared with those obtained in an earlier pilot study.
Counselling: An Introduction
Authors: Broadbent Faith
Published: April 2015

The author discusses the origins, background and context of counselling, and shows how its roots differ from those of the other main psychological helping sources. She then expands on one particular way of working by looking in more detail at the work of Carl Rogers, the American psychologist, educator and therapist, since it is his approach that she is most committed to in her own counselling practice. It was not possible to explore in detail the actual process of counselling or the training of counsellors, nor to enlarge at length on the application of counselling to particular situations such as crises or specific personal problems. For these reasons, she has called this article an introduction to counselling.
A Coded System of Categorizing Disabled People's Housing Needs and Suitably Adapted Housing
Authors: Stewart Fiona , Phillips Ros
Published: April 2015

This article is based on a need felt by the authors to clarify and improve systems of assessing clients' housing requirements in relation to their disabilities. It was recognized that housing could be seen as a resource to meet the needs of disabled people. The article presents a coding system that both acts as an aid to assessment and enables housing stock to be coded in terms of its amenities. Such a system potentially provides an objective means of assessment as well as more effective allocation of houses.
‘The Mill’: A Community Centre for the Young Chronically Mentally III — An Experiment in Partnership
Authors: Hope Jane , Pullen G P
Published: April 2015

This paper describes the development in Oxford of a day centre specifically for young adults who suffer from severe psychiatric illnesses, the so-called ‘new chronically mentally ill’. The centre was founded by the Oxford Mental Health Association (OMHA), an independent charity affiliated to MIND. OMHA continues to manage the centre in liaison with members of the multidisciplinary Oxfordshire Psychiatric Rehabilitation Service. The volunteer staff and the ‘patient’ members of the centre have evolved a nonintrusive but supportive style of working together.
The Potential Use of the Microcomputer with Patients Suffering from Cerebral Vascular Accident and Head Injury
Authors: Stoneman Ruth
Published: April 2015

This paper analyses the microcomputer as a therapeutic tool and discusses its potential use in the treatment of the multiple problems of patients suffering from cerebral vascular accident and head injury. Consideration is given to the theories underlying current treatment approaches in order to evaluate the microcomputer's effectiveness. A problem-solving approach is taken to look at both the short-term and long-term problems that can arise and how this tool can be used to solve them.
Anorexia Nervosa: A Review of the Theoretical Perspectives and Treatment Approaches
Authors: Martin Joan E
Published: April 2015

The treatment of anorexia nervosa usually involves one of three models — Physical, behavioural, or psychodynamic — although treatment is often based on a combination of these models. The theoretical perspectives of each model are examined and treatment approaches described.
Occupational Therapy Involvement in Assessment and Primary Individual Work with Alcohol Dependent Patients
Authors: Stone Nick
Published: April 2015

This article highlights an important role for the occupational therapist in primary individual work with alcohol dependent patients following detoxification. It describes a therapeutic technique, developed by the author, which can be utilized by therapists as an aid to patient assessment and early treatment.
SOS: Save Our Students
Authors: Matson Celia
Published: April 2015

Does spreading the clinical placements throughout the 3-year training make any unhappy episodes a more positive educational experience for the student? This article provides a personal view on clinical placements.
Primary Care Occupational Therapy Service, Bromley Health Authority: Bridging the Gap
Authors: Sutton Jane , Shell Stella , Collins Jane , Davis Patsy , Morgan Evelyn
Published: April 2015

A primary care occupational therapy service in Bromley Health Authority provides a bridge between existing occupational therapy provision in hospitals and social services. It enables immediate follow-up of patients discharged from hospital, assessment and follow-up of patients in casualty and short-stay wards, and assessment and rehabilitation of patients referred by general practitioners to prevent admission where possible.
The Community Care of Frail Elderly People: Cooperation in Health and Social Care
Authors: Stevenson Olive
Published: April 2015

This paper explores some issues which arise in health and social care of elderly people in the community. Four sets of factors important in cooperative professional activity are explored: The attitudes and the objectives of those offering help; the knowledge base employed in understanding the problem; and the structures and systems within which helpers work.
The Psychology of Retirement
Authors: Atton Hilary
Published: April 2015

This article is based on a theoretical and practical study of the psychology of retirement. Included are the results of a survey of 50 retired people to enable them to express their own views. The findings should be of value in occupational therapy with retired people.
Using the Steed Cushion in the Treatment of Flaccid Hemiplegia
Authors: Steed Annette
Published: April 2015

A support cushion specially designed to ensure good positioning of the upper limb and to improve posture was assessed on 10 hemiplegic patients with flaccid paralysis. A reduction in spasticity, bad posture, and shoulder and arm pain was seen in most patients while using the cushion compared with conventional devices. This simple measure was found to be universally accepted by patients, staff and relatives. It represents a useful aid in flaccid hemiplegia and may prove important in the prevention of subluxation of the shoulder joint.
Accessing Remote Data Bases Using Microcomputers
Authors: Saul Kay , Saul Peter
Published: April 2015

The use of microcomputers in accessing remote data sources is becoming increasingly relevant to occupational therapists and their clients. Some of the more common systems are discussed in terms of equipment, facilities and potential usefulness. Comment is made on future developments.
The Psychodynamics of Activity
Authors: Levens Mary
Published: April 2015

This article highlights the importance for the occupational therapist to develop her understanding of underlying dynamics, relevant in all types of activities. The therapeutic effect of practical activities can then be maximized, by using this understanding to facilitate patients in trying out new ways of responding to situations.
‘So Then We Will Be Outsiders’: One Resettlement Team's Experience of Assessing and Preparing People with Mental Handicap for Life in the Community
Authors: Cassidy Nina , Ash Bob , Coombs Diana , Bubb Pam
Published: April 2015

At present there is much interest in the plans for mentally handicapped people to live in the community. This article describes the role of one resettlement team and the task given to two of its members (principal psychologist and head occupational therapist) to set up an assessment programme. It describes the planning and implementation of the programme, gives a summary of the areas covered by the assessment and a sample timetable, and provides examples of the recommendations made and the progress of 91 residents following assessment. It is hoped that the article will make others feel less daunted when faced with the task of assessing and preparing large numbers of hospital residents for life in the community.
The Occupational Therapist as a Member of the Community Mental Handicap Team
Authors: Blundy Claire , Prevezer Karen
Published: April 2015

The authors are both occupational therapists in community mental handicap teams. This article attempts to look at some of the major issues concerning their teams, such as role overlap and blurring, team leadership and the physical base of the team. It also looks at the role of the occupational therapist, both as a team member and as a professional, and provides some examples of work with individuals and groups.
Students as Buddies: A Proposal for Smoothing the Path towards a Broader Life Experience through Recreation
Authors: Lyons Mike
Published: April 2015

Recreational experience may offer the mentally handicapped person much-needed opportunities for personal growth and for social involvement. Barriers in the form of personal and community-imposed limitations exist to thwart such opportunities. A ‘buddy’ programme linking mildly/moderately mentally handicapped individuals with nonhandicapped age peers is proposed as one solution to this problem.
Able to Work?
Authors: Kennedy Myra S
Published: April 2015

Occupational therapists have traditionally included work assessments and resettlement in their holistic approach to disabled workers. In Britain, a second approach to the evaluation of disabled workers was developed outside the National Health Service (NHS), within the present system of Employment Rehabilitation Centres (ERCs). Disabled workers may receive assessment and resettlement services within either or both these systems but the information is not shared between them. The process for deciding whether or not and within which system a disabled person should receive a work assessment and resettlement programme is complicated by several factors. A literature review of the influence of the early development of work assessments and resettlement within occupational therapy and ERCs and a summary of a pilot study serves as a basis for presenting some of the problems and raising further questions about the role identity of and communication between the two professional groups involved — Occupational therapists and the staff of ERCs.
Crafts: A Criminal Offence?
Authors: Williams Debbie , Harrison Jane , Newell Catherine , Holt Jo , Rees Colin
Published: April 2015

This article describes a third-year research project aimed at establishing the way in which the traditional crafts of basketry, stool-seating, pottery, weaving and macramé are used in the treatment of various groups of hospital psychiatric patients. The project also set out to establish whether occupational therapy staff felt that these activities still had a role to play in the therapeutic process. It was found that traditional crafts are used in a variety of ways in many units, particularly in relation to acute psychiatric patients. Although it was found that the majority of staff valued crafts, they expressed the view that there was some stigma attached to their use by hospital staff outside the occupational therapy department. A number of suggestions are made regarding the use of crafts and the need to educate others on the benefits patients receive from these activities.
Memory Functioning in Those Who Age Normally and Abnormally: A Literature Review
Authors: Robertson Linda
Published: April 2015

It is a commonly held view that memory deteriorates with age. However, this is a contentious issue and there is evidence to both support and contradict it. This paper reviews the literature which deals with such evidence; it then highlights the conditions under which older people learn most effectively and lastly considers techniques which have been used to minimize memory difficulties in such people.