Week 10 Environmental Factors for Adults and Older Adults

What are environmental factors according to WHO?

The physical, social, and attitudinal surroundings in which people live and conduct their lives. These can act as facilitators or barriers

What are some environmental factors we should consider?

Physical environment

Social environment

Cultural and institutional environment

Sensory and cognitive environment

Emotional and psychological environment

What is the PEOP model?

Person- their abilities and limitations

Environment- physical, social, and cultural factors

Occupation- daily activities and roles

Performance- interaction of all the components above

What is the OT’s role in the environment?

Home assessments and modifications

Aging in place education

Fall prevention education

Community mobility

Resources for support groups

Accessibility advocacy

Provide caregiver burnout education

Partnerships with habitat for humanity

What are built environments?

Spaces where people live, work, and engage in daily activities

Well-designed environments enhance…

Mobility and accessibility

Sensory comfort and engagement

Social participation

Independence and safety

Poorly designed environments contribute to…

Barriers to participation

Increased stress and fatigue

Physical and cognitive strain

OTs assess how spaces affect…

Physical performance

Cognitive function

Sensory processing

Social participation

What is the current role of OTs when it comes to designing an environment?

Primarily focused on direct service (individual interventions)

Due to OTs primarily playing a role in designing environments for one individual, they have limited influence on…

Architectural and design planning teams (they are not always included)

Not being recognized as design consultants

What does aging in place mean?

It’s the ability to remain in your home and community as you get older

What are barriers to aging in place?

Physical barriers

Cognitive decline

Sensory impairments

Social isolation

____ of individuals desire to age in place but only ______ of their homes an ready for aging in place

70%, 10%

How can home modifications help someone age in place?

They increase the chances for an older adult to thrive in their environment and successfully age in place

What are home modifications?

Individually tailored interventions that eliminate barriers in the home environment

What are the two primary classifications of home modifications?

Non-structural modifications (minor)

Permanent structural modifications (major)

What are key areas of the home that are often modified so a person can age in place?

Entrances and exits- adding ramps and handrails

Living areas- clearing paths and proper lighting

Kitchen- adjustable counters, easy to use appliances

Bathroom- grab bars and walk in showers

Bedroom- bed height adjustments, nightlights

What are the benefits of home modification?

Increased safety

Prevention of falls

Increased mobility

Increased independence

Reduced caregiver responsibilities

What are the 10 key impacts of home modifications?

Usability of the home

Safety, security, and comfort

Sense of permanency

Privacy and dignity

Freedom, choice, and control within the home

Maintaining valued roles and occupations

Identity and self-esteem

Appearance of the home

Fostering relationships

Perception of value-retail

What are the three assistive technology categories?

Mobility aids- canes, walkers

Smart tech- voice-controlled lights, automated reminders

Sensory aids- hearing amplifiers, vision enhancement devices

What are some fall prevention strategies?

Eliminate trip hazards

Proper footwear and mobility aids

Exercise for strength and balance

Emergency response systems

Medication side-effects

What are community resources and support we can offer as OTs?

Home health services

Introduce government and non-profit program supports

Provide family and caregiver education

Promote social engagement and transportation assistance