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This article challenges occupational therapists to extend their traditional practice in long term care settings for elderly people, in order to prevent the negative health outcomes associated with the transition into care. Failure to do so is identified as inconsistent with core occupational therapy beliefs and values, and with recent calls for occupational therapists to implement health promotion strategies. The health impact of moving into care is analyzed from an occupational perspective. The potential role of possessions in maintaining skills, and supporting self image, occupational roles, and valued occupations, is identified. Development of a health education program for prospective long term care residents, focusing around retention of possessions associated with valued occupations and occupational roles is suggested. Therapists are urged to review policies and rules regarding personal possessions and individualisation of environments, to decrease institutionalisation and enhance occupational performance.
Clare Hocking (Wed,) studied this question.