Patients presenting with memory difficulties

Abstract

‘When you see hoof prints think of horses not zebras’. This piece of advice, picked up by an occupational therapist many years ago, is passed on regularly to students and junior staff in East Gloucestershire NHS Trust. It means do not be tempted to be too clever, but consider the obvious and commonplace first — specifically when assessing and problem solving with a patient or client. As therapists, particularly occupational therapists, we should be focusing on how people function, and addressing difficulties in practical, relevant ways. This is especially true when dealing with an elderly patient who presents with problems with their memory.