CNWL’s Emma Barton co-authors chapter: A guide to psychosocial interventions in the early stages of dementia

Emma Barton, CNWL’s Head Occupational Therapist, has co-authored a chapter within the British Psychological Society: A guide to psychosocial interventions in the early stages of dementia.

Now in its second edition, the publication is aimed at people living through the early stages of dementia, and includes interventions that evidence suggests can help to improve memory and/or thinking skills, reduce anxiety, stress or depression, or increase wellbeing, communication or social inclusion.

Emma has contributed to the chapter titled ‘occupational therapy’ (page 57 to 59), which gives an overview on what occupational therapy is, who it’s for, the benefits, and how to access it. It also briefly highlights that occupational therapy can be beneficial for people with dementia.

Emma said: "Occupational therapists help people to help themselves. We support people to do the things they want and have to do, to overcome challenges, to complete everyday tasks or activities, to makes goals and work towards them.  When a person has been given a diagnosis of dementia it is important that the person is seen first and the dementia second.  As Occupational Therapists we work with people, their families and carers to focus on  maintaining roles, occupations and values within their life".