OT for people living with dementia, in the home that knows them.

Quite a lot, practically speaking. Our OTs assess how the person is managing daily tasks (getting dressed, preparing food, navigating the home safely) and identify where things are breaking down. From there, we recommend adaptations to the environment (better lighting, simplified layouts, clear labelling), modifications to routines (visual cues, prompting systems, structured activity schedules), and strategies for carers to support the person without taking over. We also assess falls risk, which is elevated for many people living with dementia.

Our OTs can conduct standardised cognitive screening as part of a broader functional assessment, for example to document how cognitive changes are affecting daily function and to support HCP planning or a GP referral. We don't provide diagnostic assessments (that's the role of a neuropsychologist or geriatrician), but we do document functional cognition clearly and can write reports that support funding decisions.

Yes. OT assessments, functional reviews, home environment assessments and carer coaching are all fundable through HCP (Level 1-4). If the client already has an HCP, their home care provider can coordinate the OT service. For clients on the CHSP, OT may also be available through the programme. Call us and we'll help you work out what's in place.

This is more common than you might think, and our OTs are used to it. We take a low-key, conversational approach, and the visit rarely feels like a formal assessment to the person. We involve them, follow their lead and work at their pace. In some cases, the initial visit is primarily an information-gathering session with the carer or family. We'll discuss the best approach with you before we book.

Falls risk is the most common concern. Beyond that, we assess kitchen and stove safety (including when supervised vs unsupervised cooking is appropriate), medication management, door and exit security for clients who wander, bathroom safety, and the risk of burns, scalds and other household hazards. We provide practical, proportionate recommendations rather than a blanket list of things that must be banned.

It depends on the stage and rate of change. An initial assessment followed by a review six to twelve months later is common. As the condition progresses, more frequent contact may be needed to reassess function, update equipment prescriptions or support carers through transitions. Your HCP case manager can help plan the right frequency within the package.

Absolutely, and it's a core part of what we do. Carer burnout is one of the main reasons home care arrangements break down. Our OTs coach family members and paid carers on safe manual handling, effective communication strategies, how to respond to distress, and how to structure the day to reduce confusion and agitation. We can also write a carer support plan as part of the HCP documentation.