Occupational Therapy

While you are waiting for an Occupational Therapy assessment, you might find that small daily living aids can make tasks easier and safer. Many of these can be purchased yourself without an assessment.

Examples might include:

• Commode
• Grab rails
• Long‑handled sponge
• Grip aids
• Kettle tipper
• Bathing step
• Jar/tin openers
• Non-slip mats

We recommend trying AskSARA if you haven’t already.
AskSARA provides:

• Helpful advice tailored to your situation
• Ideas about what could help in the home
• Suggestions of equipment
• Links to where items can be purchased

You can access AskSARA here: http://stoke.livingmadeeasy.org.uk

Things to think about:

• How steady do I feel getting in and out of the bath or shower?
• Is bathing more difficult at certain times of day?
• Does bending, reaching, or standing make me feel unsafe?

Ideas that may help:

• Try washing at a time of day when you feel least tired.
• Keep towels, soap, clothing and toiletries nearby to avoid stretching.
• Use a non‑slip mat or towel to reduce slipping.
• If stepping into a bath or shower is difficult, consider washing at the sink from a seated position (such as a perching stool or sturdy chair).
• If you continue bathing, consider having someone else in the house, or keep a lifeline pendant or mobile phone within reach.
• Long‑handled sponges or brushes can reduce bending and reaching.

Things to think about:

• Are there specific times or places where I feel unsteady?
• Do clutter or loose items make walking more difficult?
• Do I sometimes rush because I need the toilet or phone?

Ideas that may help:

• Keep walkways clear of clutter, bags, wires, and loose rugs.
• Ensure good lighting, especially at night. Plug‑in night lights can help.
• Keep frequently used items within easy reach.
• Avoid rushing where possible, Many falls occur when people feel hurried.
• Consider wearing supportive, well‑fitting footwear indoors. Avoid loose or backless slippers, as they may increase the risk of tripping or slipping.
• If your falls risk feels high, you might consider temporarily sleeping downstairs. Just bear in mind that avoiding stairs completely can reduce mobility so balance safety with staying active where you can.
• When using stairs, take your time and pause if needed; slow, steady use can be safer than avoiding them altogether.

Things to think about:

• Do I feel steady on steps, ramps, or thresholds?
• Does my mobility change from day to day?
• Would having someone with me help me feel more confident?

Ideas that may help:

• Check for uneven or slippery surfaces around your entrance.
• Keep walking aids near the door if you use them.
• Try to go out at times when your energy or mobility feels better.
• If you feel unsteady, consider asking someone to be with you when going in or out.
• If attending appointments is difficult, ask about home visits or hospital transport options.

Things to think about:

• Do I get tired standing to cook?
• Is lifting pans or kettles difficult?
• Do I forget to eat or drink when tired or in pain?

Ideas that may help:

• Prepare meals when you have more energy.
• Slide pans across the worktop instead of lifting them.
• Use a smaller kettle or only fill it with what you need.
• Keep snacks and drinks within easy reach.
• Consider ready meals or a meal delivery service if cooking is difficult at the moment.

Things to think about:

• Is getting on or off the toilet difficult?
• Do I need to rush due to urgency?
• Is the route to the toilet safe and well lit, especially at night?

Ideas that may help:

• Keep access routes clear and ensure good lighting.
• Take your time when sitting or standing.
• Keep walking aids nearby if you use them.
• Consider using a commode or urinal near your bed or living area if getting to the toilet quickly is challenging.
• Consider purchasing pads so you are not worried about rushing.

Things to think about:

• Is my bed too low or too soft to get out of easily?
• Do I struggle turning or repositioning myself?
• Do I feel safe if I get up in the night?

Ideas that may help:

• Move slowly from lying to sitting and pause before standing.
• Keep lighting that is easy to reach and switch on.
• Keep essentials (phone, glasses, drink) close by.

Things to think about:

• Which tasks drain my energy the most?
• Could tasks be broken down into smaller steps?
• Is there anyone who could help with heavier jobs?

Ideas that may help:

• Use pacing - take short rests before you feel tired.
• Spread tasks across the week instead of all in one go.
• Sit down whenever possible, especially for meal prep or folding laundry.

Waiting for support can feel frustrating or worrying.

Ideas that may help:

• Talk through your concerns with someone you trust.
• Keep a list of questions for your upcoming OT assessment.
• Let your GP and the OT know if anything changes or you feel unsafe.

Contact a GP or other health professional sooner if you:

• Experience new or frequent falls
• Feel unsafe completing essential tasks
• Have a sudden change in mobility
• Experience significantly increased pain
• Struggle with basic self‑care

Mobility aids: Contact your GP for referral to NHS Community Physiotherapy.

Equipment for acute needs / discharge / rehabilitation: Request a referral to the NHS Community Occupational Therapy Team via your GP.

Wheelchair services: AJM Healthcare – 0808 175 3996 or email: ajm.ssotwheelchairservice@nhs.net

Falls Prevention: Request referral to the Specialist Falls Team via your GP.

Telecare: For lifeline or other telecare services, information can be found here: https://www.stoke.gov.uk/info/20010/adult_care_and_wellbeing/679/telecare

Repairs and lift breakdowns

• Under warranty: contact your supplier.
• Council tenants: 01782 234100
• Everyone else: Stannah – 01215 592260

Clos‑o‑Mat repairs: 0800 374 076

Housing advice / rehousing: 01782 233696

Medequip (equipment collection/repair): 01785 273950

AskSARA: http://stoke.livingmadeeasy.org.uk

Stoke-on-Trent Small Good Stuff: http://www.smallgoodstuff.co.uk/stoke-on-trent

Stoke-on-Traders Register: 01785 330888 or go to: https://www.traderregister.org.uk/staffordshire/index.php

Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Safe and Well visits: 0800 0241 999, Text (deaf/hard of hearing): 07528 983 101 or go to:  https://www.staffordshirefire.gov.uk/your-safety/safe-and-well/