Sunday, October 23, 2016

Balance and independence-TUG test

TUG test - the person is asked to stand up from a chair, walk 3m, turn back and return to the chair.  you can start with a demonstration by the therapist and a practice trial by the client. Timing begins when the first observable movement of the client occurs and ends when the client’s buttocks touch the seat of the chair. During the test it's beneficial to assess; sit to stand, walking and turning speed. 

Typical times range from under 10 sec to 15 sec. Generally, scores under 10 sec indicate an independent person. Scores under 20 sec indicate people with good mobility who are usually independent in daily activities, can climb stairs and can navigate alone outside of the home. Scores between 20 and 29 sec are considered a gray zone because of the variability in balance abilities and functional mobility; such clients may be independent or need some help with routine daily tasks. Scores above 30 sec are generally indicative of clients who need help with transfers (chair, toilet), bathing and climbing stairs. These clients may not navigate outside of their house alone (Bischoff-Ferrari et al., 2004; Bohannon, 2006; Isles, Low Choy, Steer, & Nitz, 2004; Lin et al., 2004; Podsiadlo & Richardson, 1991).

Wednesday, October 5, 2016

Occupational Therapy Intervention Approaches



health promotionAn approach that does not assume
 a disability is present.
The goal is to provide enrichment and
experiences that will enhance
performance for all.
remediation, restorationDesigned to change and
establish a new skill or ability
or to restore a skill or ability that has
been impaired.
MaintainProvide the supports that will allow
clients to preserve the performance
capabilities they have regained. 
Modify=compensationFinding ways to revise the current
context or activity demands to support
 performance in the natural setting.
PreventDesigned to address clients with or
without a disability who are at risk
for occupational performance problems. 

Monday, October 3, 2016

Falls Behavioural Scale

Older Persons’ Adaptations to Protect Themselves From Falling: Ten Dimensions
The Falls Behavioral Scale for Older People (FaB; Clemson, 2003; Clemson, Bundy, Cumming,
Kay, & Luckett, 2008) is an assessment designed to evaluate behavioral factors that could
potentially protect against falling. 
FaB Behavioral FactorExamples
Factor 1: Cognitive adaptations
  • Use traffic lights whenever possible.
  • When outdoors move around carefully, and look for potential               hazards.
  • Hold onto a handrail when climbing stairs.
  • When feeling ill take special care when moving around
Factor 2: Protective mobility
  • Use a walking stick or walking aid if need it.
  • Moving at a slower pace.
  • When standing up make a pause to get the balance.
  • Bend over to reach only with a firm handhold.
  • Avoid ramps and other slopes.
Factor 3: Avoidance
  • Ask for help when needed
  • Use night light.
Factor 4: Awareness
  • Ask the physician questions about the side effects of medications.
  • I notice spills on the floor.
Factor 5: Pace
  • Don't hurry when doing things.
  • Don't turn around quickly.
Factor 6: Practical strategies
  • Avoid walking about in crowded places.
  • Clean spills on the floor.
Factor 7: Displacing activities
  • don't go out on windy days.
Factor 8: Being observant
  • Check the soles of shoes to see if they are slippery.
  • When walking outdoors look ahead for potential hazards.
Factor 9: Changes in level
  • When wearing bifocals I misjudge a step or do not see a                      change in floor level.
  • When I am getting down from a ladder or step stool I think                              about the bottom rung or step.
Factor 10: Getting to the phone
  • I hurry to answer the phone.