Guest Columnist
Arnie Idelson, CTRS,CMT, LCAT,CPRP

I believe an assessment is a means of Problem Solutions for residents and the ticket to health. I covered a floor at the facility I worked previously in Brooklyn for 20 years when the recreation therapist was out sick. I played one to one Balloon Volleyball around the room with residents as well as provided an exercise program based on functional movements ironing, playing the piano, swimming picking money from the imaginary ceiling money tree. I observed a resident with contractures of her hands but some use of fingers on each hand to have excellent gross motor usage of her arms with minimal use of fingers thumb and pointer

This resident at meal time was spoon fed by staff and required staff assistance to mobilize in her wheelchair. She had a diagnosis of schizophrenia and would have resulting moods and behaviors. Because I was aware that perhaps this residents might benefit from adaptive equipment, I requested OT and PT to re-evaluate her. She was provided with adaptive equipment to feed herself; was taught to mobilize her wheelchair independently and could arrive at activities on another unit independently.

This resident was involved in art therapy in which her expressive drawings were part of art shows in the facility. She used adaptive markers, paint brushes and became an impressive artist. Her mood state improved and she received positive verbal feedback from staff and the administrator. I am sure her self esteem was greatly improved.

This all occurred because I saw the strength of her gross motor arm movement limited fine motor movement but not the zero level that required being fed. The PT & OT was excellent in the facility they could motivate people to achieve by making Duncan Donut's Party in the PT Room.

Her problem behavior may have contributed her to falling through the cracks by not of being provided therapy. When her increased physical independence and creative expression was achieved her mood state and response to people improved because she was happier. The resident still had her days of mood and behavior. I have gave this lady her LIfe Back. An assessment form is a way for me to use my observation skills more thoroughly and to then work with the inter-displinary team to support the residents full needs and enhance positive measurable outcomes. Arnie Idelson, CTRS,CMT, LCAT,CPRP