Book review - Wellbeing in Dementia : an occupational approach for therapists and carers

Wellbeing in Dementia : an occupational approach for therapists and carers

It is really educational to read the approach of occupational therapists to dementia clients especially for me a DT. The OT approach to their clients has been one of encouraging activities for daily living through a rehabilitative method. (The DT approach has been activities for leisure and quality of life.) However with dementia clients we are looking at the progress of the illness as cognitive abilities decline so rehabilitation is not generally effective. The roles of recreation staff and OT are often closely aligned and in fact many OT’s have both roles in other states or countries. These authors have written a very detailed and researched text on the Piaget model of the reverse stages of development from infant to adolescent in dementia. These stages are described as Reflective, Symbolic, Sensori-motor, and Reflex. This model will challenge the reader whether they are a family carer, care staff, educators or recreation staff. It is essential to read the whole book to get this approach clear in the mind of a therapist. There are many case studies and I found the book hard to put down! There is another challenge in this book suggesting that a health care role of dementia therapist could be considered who is a specialist care worker- someone who has good natural mothering-type skills and educational background in dementia care. A person such as this would be marvellous in the care of residents in the end stages of dementia where activities are done to/with the client based on their special needs. This book would be a great resource for educators and professionals who have an interest in the latest theories on working and communicating with dementia clients. The chart on page 119 is a very useful summary.

Book review by Lauretta Kaldor consultant and trainer for staff in aged care