The Effectiveness of Local Authority Social Services' Occupational Therapy for Older People in Great Britain: A Critical Literature Review

Abstract

Introduction: Older people are the main users of adult social care services in Great Britain. Evidence suggests that occupational therapists employed by local authorities are providing interventions that promote and maintain older people's independence, and decrease dependency on other services. However, such evidence is disparate in nature and lacks synthesis. Method: This literature review systematically selected, critically appraised, and thematically synthesized the post 2000 published and unpublished evidence on the effectiveness and cost effectiveness of occupational therapy interventions for older people in social care services. Findings: Identified themes established: the localized nature of social care services for older people; organizational and policy impacts on services, and factors influencing effectiveness and cost effectiveness. Although occupational therapists are increasingly involved in rehabilitation and reablement, there is a continuing focus on equipment and adaptations provision. A high level of service user satisfaction was identified, once timely occupational therapy services were received. Conclusion: Overall, occupational therapy in social care is perceived as effective in improving quality of life for older people and their carers, and cost effective in making savings for other social and healthcare services. However, the complex nature of social care services makes it difficult to disaggregate the effectiveness of occupational therapy from other services.