Occupational Therapy Services For Impaired Cognition
Impaired cognition often results in dementia, which is a sign of brain damage. A family member who has been diagnosed as having a mild case of dementia may benefit from occupational therapy sessions. Occupational therapy sessions will aid in testing your loved one's mental capacity and short- and long-term memory, minimizing the rate of mental decline, and working around cognitive barriers.
Services Offered At A Center
Dementia is caused by damage to nerve cells that are affiliated with brain activity. Some people with impaired cognition show signs of memory loss or poor judgment after an accident has occurred, but others may not indicate any signs of dementia until they are elderly and there may not be an apparent reason as to the sudden decline.
An occupational therapist serves people with mental and physical barriers that interfere with all facets of independent living. Some people seek services through an occupational therapy center because they would like to maintain their independence and be able to hold down a job or continue to care for their family members.
With impaired cognition, reversing the problem is not possible, but a therapist can minimize the rate at which mental decline affects one's life and can formulate a plan that will aid with remaining independent. Medication will not be administered through an occupational therapy center, and if you are someone who is opposed to your loved one taking substances that could make them sleepy or act different than normal, you will be satisfied to know that all services that are administered omit the use of prescription or non-prescription drugs.
The Testing And Self-Care Processes
Bring a copy of your loved one's medical records with you when you accompany your relative during their initial therapy appointment. Further testing may be conducted to determine if your family member's status has worsened or if it has remained the same.
To prevent further memory loss or to maintain adequate judgment, a therapist may use some exercises that aid with memory retention and reasoning skills. They may recommend treatment options that are natural and that omit the use of manufactured medications.
Your family member may currently be able to care for their needs, allowing them to remain independent. If there are a couple of areas that they have trouble with, such as finding clothing to wear or essentials needed to prepare meals, a therapist may recommend that a caregiver is hired on a part-time basis.
They may also use some workaround strategies, which will focus on the mental strengths that your loved one possesses. For instance, if your loved one is able to get dressed with ease or cook basic meals, as long as the items they need are within view, you may be advised to reorganize their living space. Placing items within reach or using a labeling system will guide your loved one toward choosing the items they need.
Contact an occupational therapy center to learn more.