Blogs and articles

By creating a secure attachment to a parent or carer, a child is able to develop socially, emotionally, and cognitively because they feel loved and safe to explore their environment.

Cerebral palsy (CP) is a lifelong condition that affects movement and muscle control which is caused when the brain is starved of oxygen either during pregnancy or birth.

As an occupational therapist with a decade’s experience in social services, I know first-hand the challenges faced with recommending specialist baths – and the physical and emotional stress this can put on a family who may already be struggling.

We experience the world around us through our senses, and most people can block out unnecessary sensory information to focus on the task at hand. For children with sensory processing difficulties, they are unable to do this and can become overwhelmed quickly.

Bath and Shower time can provide a variety of sensory experiences that can be fun and can help support the bedtime routine. However, for a child/individual with sensory sensitivities, this activity can be emotional and anxiety provoking.

Bathing can have many benefits and values for different reasons to the individual, some of these may lie within the sensory feedback received during bathing or the subsequent impact on the body’s nervous system.

Stuart Brown, Occupational Therapist & Moving and Handling Trainer, examines manual handling risks associated with supporting the full task of bathing; the legal requirements; and supportive interventions.

Rheumatoid Arthritis Awareness week on 13–18th September seems like the perfect time to have the discussion about the use of bathing to reduce joint pain.

For many, home is central to our identities and occupational wellbeing.

As occupational therapists we believe individuals have occupational rights and that everyone has the right to engage in meaningful occupations that contribute positively to their own well-being.