Occupational Therapy
Occupational therapy provides practical support to enable people to recovery and overcome any barriers that prevent them from doing the activities (occupations) that matter to them. This helps to increase people's independence and satisfaction in life.
"Occupation" refers to practical and purposeful activities that allow people to live independently and have a sense of identity. This could be essential day-to-day tasks such as self-care, work or leisure.
Occupational therapists are skilled professionals who find solutions to everyday problems. e.g. advice on approaching a task differently, using equipment or assistive technology, adapting your living or working environment, and finding strategies to reach your chosen goals.
Description
- Assessment for independent living and daily living tasks (e.g. Showering)
- Provision of assistive equipment e.g. shower stools, toilet frames, bed levers etc
- Housing modifications and rail assessments
- Wheelchair and seating service
- Driving assessment
- Inpatient and Home based rehabilitation programmes
- Healthcare education
- Functional and cognitive assessment
- Health promotion and lifestyle change
- Development of self-awareness and self esteem
- Work assessment and return to work programmes
- Liaison with G.P.’s and community based services
Occupational Therapists and Occupational Therapy Assistants work across a number of services; for example the Child Development Service, Emergency Department, Palliative Care Services and within community teams.
Location
Occupational Therapy Reception,
Level 2, Timaru Hospital
Queen Street
Timaru, 7910
Contact Information
Phone: 03 687 2256
Fax: 03 687 2259
Referral Information
A referral may be completed by a G.P., a health professional or directly by the client or a family member. Referrals can be faxed or phoned through to the Receptionist.