Occupational Therapy (OT) has been a game-changer for Adon, helping him to unlock newfound abilities and self-assurance.
The 47-year-old has been a genU disability services program participant for decades. He currently takes part in a range of activities including bowling, swimming, and a cooking group.
More recently he was referred to genU’s Occupational Therapy services. His aim was to become more independent and develop skills to increase his participation in everyday tasks, to prepare for the next stage of his life.
This support that has made a very positive difference in his daily life, according to his mother Gail.
“We see really big and marked improvement for his everyday living. He has more confidence and willingness to try new things,” she said.
Adon had struggled with coordination and confidence when using his hands, preventing him from tackling some more routine tasks at home.
“We did some assessments with him and created his OT support plan”, said genU Occupational Therapist Kristine Donaldson. “This included creating fine motor and gross motor skill development strategies.”
As part of his OT support plan, Adon has fortnightly sessions with his genU Therapy Assistant Sandy.
“It’s a more frequent and intensive implementation of skill development, that aligns with the evidence-based goals in his support plan,” Kristine shared.
“They have been building his fine motor skills through the use of different art mediums and tools, and engaging in play activities to encourage improved gross motor function. It has really boosted his confidence which is a huge aspect of his development.”
“Because he has developed a very good relationship with his Therapy Assistant Sandy, she can ask him to try something new. Previously he might have been very, very hesitant.
“And he’s just been flying! He’s done some amazing things and he now has a portfolio of work that he’s created.
“He can transfer all those fun skills he’s learned into other tasks, for example combing his own hair and brushing his own teeth.”
Adon has also been supported by his OT to access items of assistive technology. This includes as a tipper kettle, which enables him to safely make himself a cup of tea without needing hands-on assistance.
Adon’s mother Gail is excited to see his newfound self-assurance on display at home with his family.
“By improving his fine motor skills he has the physical confidence to try things he wouldn’t try before,” Gail shared “And he’s using his initiative, for example carrying things in the kitchen.
“It’s all coming together so well for him!”
Learn more NDIS Occupational Therapy | Disability Services (genu.org.au)