Mobility retailer launches virtual OT assessment service to beat lengthy waiting times
One of the UK’s largest online mobility aid retailers, Ability Superstore, has relaunched its virtual Occupational Therapy (OT) Assessment service in a bid to help beat waiting times, caused by the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.
Originally launched last year to bridge the gap for many elderly and vulnerable people who were shielding to allow quick, simple access to occupational therapy assessments, the service gives people access to a professional assessment quickly and easily. This has been more important than ever during the pandemic, where people have often had lengthy waits for services and, in some cases, received no support at all.
The remote assessment offers people one-to-one time with Kate Makin, Ability Superstore’s resident occupational therapist, who will discuss any challenges the individual, or a loved one, faces on a daily basis, such as dressing, or washing.
She works with individuals to establish their needs and provides a written evaluation of any recommended minor adaptations to the home or equipment that could help. Her approach is to understand why the client is unable to carry out certain activities and offer a practical, workable solution.
Assessments can be done over the phone or via video call to suit the needs of the person being assessed (or a family member looking for advice).
Kate has worked in a wide range of settings across the NHS, as well as in the private sector, and has her own private occupational therapy service too.
She said: “The pandemic has just highlighted some of the huge gaps in unmet need and support for families. People can be left without support or advice, when a quick, simple assessment can be held virtually now and I’m really excited that we can do this so quickly and easily to help improve people’s lives,
“By having a virtual assessment, you can find solutions to the hurdles of daily living – without leaving your home or having to wait.”
A virtual OT assessment costs £200, excluding VAT.
To book a virtual OT assessment, visit the Ability Superstore page or call 0800 255 0498.
Earlier this year, Ability Superstore reported receiving an influx of orders for the Uccello Easy Pour Kettle and Tipper, after this daily living aid went viral on TikTok. The TikTok video racked up 1.7 million views and features a woman who says her sister bought her 90-year-old grandmother, who cannot lift things easily, the Uccello Easy Pour Kettle and Tipper.
The kettle operates on a hinge, so the user just needs to tilt it forward to pour the water into a cup without having to lift it. According to the manufacturer, the handy device is safer for shaky hands, as there is no risk of dropping the kettle and boiling water on the floor.