Factors that may be considered by occupational therapists during the assessment of clients for assistive technology and whether it permeates through to the eventual prescription

Abstract

The importance and weighting given to certain factors by occupational therapists, during the assessment process for assistive technology (AT), may have an affect on the eventual outcome for the client. Factors examined included risks around the user, carer and their environments, training and knowledge of AT, policy issues on provision and actual practice, choice of AT and whether AT has an impact on care provision. Out of 50 anonymous questionnaires sent out to collect information, 36 were returned direct to the researcher by stamped addressed envelope. 19 respondents from health and 17 from social services provided a good balance and allowed an opportunity for cross comparison. Areas of practice around multidisciplinary team working and client follow‐up were found to be weak. Frequency of social alarm referrals where no lifeline existed was low. Thematic analysis from feedback also identified concerns over knowledge and awareness of assistive technology. Differences between health and social services were detected. The research identified that many of the factors were being considered by occupational therapists, however, some of these factors were not permeating through to actual practice and application, which highlighted inconsistency in OT practice and the effect of local practice conditions on AT prescription.