New guide provides “clear-cut” answers for the provision of mobility equipment in care homes
Helping occupational therapists with the decision-making process and the provision of specialist equipment, the Royal College of Occupational Therapists (RCOT) has launched a new guide underlining the principles for the assessment, maintenance and provision of equipment in care homes.
Called ‘Care homes and equipment’, RCOT’s new guide will also act as a reference point for people who need to be aware of the process for assessing and providing equipment for care home residents. The guidance identifies a number of principles which need to underpin planning for the provision of equipment.
In addition, the new guide ensures the person is placed at the heart of the planning, decision-making and provision of equipment.
Using case scenarios, it will highlight a number of responsibilities and standards of practice to help prioritise the importance of the person’s wellbeing in the decision-making process for the provision of equipment.
RCOT Lead Professional Adviser Karin Orman commented: “This is a really important guide. Current legislation does not provide clear-cut answers concerning the provision and funding of specialist equipment in care homes and this guide will give direction to everyone involved in the process.
“The right piece of equipment can make a life-changing impact to a person’s life in a care home and this guide will help everyone involved with providing and maintaining equipment as easily as possible. Occupational therapy is all about person centred care and these principles place the person at the heart of the planning, decision-making and provision of equipment.”
