Self-care and home management training teaches or retrains the tasks of daily living: bathing, dressing, eating, toileting, cooking, cleaning and managing medicines. It also looks at the home itself, since a poorly arranged room can make a task unsafe.

At occupational therapy for children in Mumbai, this may mean teaching a child to dress, use a spoon or manage a school bag. For adults and older people, the therapist may visit tasks such as getting in and out of the bath, using a kitchen or climbing stairs. Adapted tools, such as thick-handled cutlery, long-handled reachers, shower stools and grab rails, are suggested, and families learn how to help without taking over.

How the Procedure Can Help

It restores independence, lowers the risk of falls and accidents, and reduces strain on carers.

Risks and Considerations

Learning new methods takes time and patience. Equipment must be fitted correctly. The therapist rehearses tasks with supervision before the person tries alone and reviews progress regularly.