Occupational Therapy

Frequently Asked Questions:

How can Occupational Therapy support me?

Everyday Activities

We can provide advice, assessment, assistive equipment and training for independence and conserving energy in areas such as dressing, bathing, toileting and transfers. We can also advise and support in continuing interests that are a priority for you.   

Anxiety Management, Fatigue Management and Life Skills

We can support you in ways to conserve your energy and manage your fatigue and anxiety which can affect many areas of everyday life including the things that are most important to you.  We do this either as a group programme or on a one to one basis.

Equipment and Adaptations

Assessment for the provision of equipment and advise on minor home adaptations to enable you to remain safe and independent as possible. This includes the assessment and short term loan of wheelchairs and other items.

Relaxation Therapy

Techniques and skills are taught to assist, for example, with stress, pain, anxiety and sleeplessness.  After assessment we can provide you with materials to use at home or at the hospice and there is a relaxation group in the Day Hospice.

Planning for being cared for at home

If you want to be cared for at home we will assist other members of the hospice team in planning for your care needs, safety, independence and carer support.  This may involve us visiting your home to help us assess your needs and environment.

How can I arrange to see the Occupational Therapist?

You can be referred to the Occupational Therapist by any member of the hospice team.

How soon will I see the Occupational Therapist?

This will be assessed depending on your needs and level of risk. 

For equipment provision and adaptations the OT and Technician work in close conjunction with OTs from local service providers like an NHS Primary Care Team or a local council’s Health and Social Care department.

If you are a patient on our wards, your level of need will be assessed and you will be offered on-going input as appropriate.

The Occupational Therapist and Technician are also involved in Day Hospice.

Who can the Occupational Therapist treat?

The Occupational Therapist is only able to treat and advise patients under the care of St Catherine’s.  She can advise your carers regarding your care but is unable to treat or offer advice for family and friends’ conditions.