World Alzheimer’s Day: shining the spotlight on our OT’s

19 Sep 25

This World Alzheimer’s Day we wanted to shine a spotlight on our Occupational Therapists and how they support service users within the Trust.

1 in 3 people born in the UK today will go on to develop dementia in their lifetime (Alzheimer’s Society). This figure lays bare the challenge faced to support people who live with this condition.

At HPFT, we offer an Early Memory Diagnosis and Support Service (EMDASS) for people living in Hertfordshire whose GP can refer them into if they feel it is needed – the aim of our service is to enable people with dementia and their carers to live well.

Ali is a Specialist Occupational Therapist working in the EMDASS team in East Hertfordshire. The team supports people to live as independently as possible. They may provide equipment and adaptations at home or give advice on strategies or cognitive rehabilitation, which helps people to improve their thinking skills to maintain their independence. They help people to managing their daily activities and access additional services as well as playing a role in supporting carers.

Ali says: “I am passionate about working in dementia care. Receiving a dementia diagnosis is life changing and the impact on the individual and the people who love and care for them cannot be underestimated. However, I want to reassure that there are lots of support services available to help people and their families. Keeping physically, socially, cognitively and functionally active is so valuable and it is possible to live well and happily with dementia.”

Belinda is an Occupational Therapist who works at Lambourn Grove, a long stay unit providing mental health services for older people. She explains what she enjoys about her role.

“Every day is so different and varied. What remains constant, however, is knowing that there’s daily scope to use therapeutic use of self – this may mean offering a hug, holding a hand, or chatting, singing or dancing with service users; despite the challenges that someone living with dementia may face, my role allows for flexibility in how I offer support – there’s little room for being self-conscious!

“I love being warmly greeted by service users each morning and this just confirms that my role is perfect for me.”

The Trust also works in close partnership with organisations such as Hertfordshire County Council, Hertfordshire Health and Wellbeing Board and voluntary organisations such as the Alzheimer’s Society as part of the Hertfordshire Dementia Strategy. We want to ensure that people with dementia receive early access to diagnosis and have equitable access to health and care services to support them.

Support is also available from:

Help and support with dementia care – Alzheimer’s Society
Help and support for people with dementia – NHS

Related Pages

World Alzheimer’s Day: shining the spotlight on our OT’s