"The difference between the right word and the almost right word is the difference between lightning and the lightning bug." - Mark TwainPeople with disabilities are just like every other human being. Person-first language puts focus on the individual and not the disability. We should not identify individuals based on their functional or mental limitations. For example, a practitioner should refer to someone as "a man who had a stroke" instead of a "stroke patient." I believe it is important to understand and practice person-first language to be an effective practitioner. First, it allows the client to feel more comfortable, and you will make more progress together if the client feels like an individual and not a disability. Second, occupational therapists are trained to help people as a whole, not just the disability, so it is important for us to look past the disability and focus on the client, as well. There are countless more reasons to practice person-first language, but it is not just important for the client's sake. It is crucial that practitioners fully understand and believe in the holistic approach to therapy as well, and it starts here.
Do-Live-Well is a framework of reference used by occupational therapists that ultimately emphasizes "what you do everyday matters." It has four main sections being (1) dimensions of experience, (2) activity patterns, (3) health and well-being outcomes, and (4) contextual forces influencing activity engagement, or things in the environment. These sections are further broken down into more specific dimensions. This framework can help identify missed or disrupted dimensions that interrupt with an individual's well-being. It aims to empower people in reflecting on their patterns of activity engagement and promote health and well-being. This framework can be used on all populations and in any setting. When using this framework, a therapist might assess the client's activity patterns such as habits, routines, roles and rituals, ADL skill level, community involvement, and physical abilities.
Very insightful post!
ReplyDelete