HOME ASSESSMENT Flashcards
Besides physical barriers, what other factors can impede a client’s ability to perform tasks in their home environment? Give at least two examples.
Beyond physical barriers like stairs and thresholds, factors such as the arrangement of furniture, inadequate lighting, unsuitable floor surfaces, and even perceptual, cognitive or psychosocial issues can significantly impact performance of tasks. These factors can lead to inefficiency, fatigue, and even injury.
Who should be involved in a home assessment team, and why is their involvement important?
A home assessment team should include the client, their main carer, an Occupational Therapist (OT), a Physiotherapist (PT), a Social Worker (SW), and when needed, an architect, plumber, electrician, and carpenter. This multidisciplinary approach ensures all aspects of the client’s needs are considered within their environment and decisions are collaborative.
How do sensory, perceptual, and cognitive impairments influence an individual’s performance within their home environment?
Sensory impairments such as hearing or vision loss, perceptual problems, and cognitive difficulties impact how individuals interact with and perform tasks within their environment. These issues can affect how they interpret information, navigate spaces, and execute daily activities.
Before recommending any modifications to a home, what considerations should an occupational therapist (OT) prioritize? Name at least three.
Before recommending any modifications, an OT must consider the individual needs and characteristics of the client, along with social and community factors, economic issues, and the overall ambience of the home. It’s essential to plan the environment around the abilities, not just the disabilities, of the client.
What is the difference between individual, social, and physical environmental intervention strategies? Give one example for each.
Individual intervention strategies focus on teaching new task methods to overcome barriers, social strategies involve support from others, and physical environmental strategies cover re-arranging, additions and structural changes to the environment. For example, sliding objects in the kitchen, having a carer assist with dressing, or adding grab bars in the bathroom, respectively.
Describe the key design features of a ramp that ensure safety and usability, particularly for individuals using wheelchairs or mobility aids.
A ramp should have a gradual incline, textured, non-slip surfaces, and may need a wrap-around design with landings for longer runs. They should also have a hand rail. These features are important for safe navigation, especially for those using wheelchairs or mobility aids, as they reduce the risk of falls or accidents.
Why are contrasting colours and textures important for visual cues within the home environment, especially for those with visual impairments? Give two examples of how they can be used.
Contrasting colours and textures are vital for visual cues because they improve visibility and help with navigation, especially for those with visual impairments. For example, using contrasting coloured tape on stair edges or handrails, or textured material to identify a change of surface.
Explain the concept of a work triangle in the kitchen, and why is it important in relation to energy conservation and efficiency?
The work triangle in the kitchen is the strategic positioning of the sink, refrigerator, and stove to minimise movement and concentrate work areas. This reduces energy expenditure, increases efficiency, and makes meal preparation easier and safer.
What are the recommended features for a bathroom sink to ensure accessibility for individuals with mobility issues? Include at least two features.
An accessible bathroom sink should have no pedestal or have adequate knee space underneath, should have insulated pipes, shallow depth (16 cm) and have easy to use lever-type faucets, preferably placed at the side. These ensure comfort and safety for the user.
What bedroom adaptations may be necessary for someone with limited mobility or who requires assistance with bed transfers?
Bedroom adaptations may include a variable height bed to ease transfers, pressure relief mattresses, bedside tables or shelves for convenient access to essentials, and adjustments to wardrobe and closet storage to make clothing more accessible. These adaptations aim to facilitate comfortable, independent living and to make tasks safer for the individual.
