Gerontic Occupational Therapy and Patient Education: Perceptions, Barriers, and Needs

ABSTRACT

The purpose of this study is to understand current practice of patient education by occupational therapy practitioners who work with the geriatric population. A 30-item survey was sent to 97 practitioners in the Indianapolis area. Seventy-eight (80.4%) returned the survey. Respondents reported that activities of daily living and safety were two topics taught most frequently. Verbal instructions and demonstrations were two main strategies of patient education. Clients’ cognitive function was the biggest factor considered when providing written information. Most respondents used written materials developed by their facilities. Over half of the respondents perceived that clients sometimes had difficulty understanding educational content. Time constraints and limited resources of educational materials were two main barriers to patient education. The majority of practitioners reported that they needed education materials that cover the topic of safety. Further research on developing effective and efficient patient education strategies for gerontic occupational therapy practitioners is encouraged.

KEYWORDS. :

• patient education as topic
• occupational therapy
• aged