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Cognitively Appropriate Activities in Long Term Care

Shelly Mesure, M.S., OTR/L

May 20, 2013

Question

Can you give an example of a cognitively appropriate activity in a LTC facility?

Answer

I like to use an assessment tool like the ACLS (Allen Cognitive Level Screen) to get a baseline of the resident's cognition.  I then take a history on prior roles, ADL task performance and leisure interests.  For example, I had a resident who did accounting and clerical work.  He had severely impaired cognition, but he was able to attend to simple tasks like sorting papers by color.  By simplifying tasks to meet the client's level, you can maximize their functional performance 


shelly mesure

Shelly Mesure, M.S., OTR/L

Shelly A Mesure, MS, OTR/L, is a nationally recognized industry expert and speaker specializing in training and seminars throughout the United States on translating government regulations to everyday clinical practice. She is also the SVP of Orchestrall Rehab Solutions providing on and off-site consulting services throughout the US and China. She has authored the blog, Rehab Realities, through McKnights.com; has developed continuing education webinars, six-hour live seminars, and various workshops and educational programs. In 2011, Ms. Mesure was featured in News-Line for Occupational Therapy for her efforts in continuing education and consulting work. Ms. Mesure received a BS in Rehabilitation Services with a minor in Gerontology from The Pennsylvania State University and an MS in Occupational Therapy from Rush University in Chicago.


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