How do Clients with Learning Disabilities Evaluate their Experience of Cooking with the Occupational Therapist?

Abstract

This research study set out to establish the views of five clients with mild learning disabilities. Qualitative methodology was employed, with particular focus given to occupational therapy and the activity of cooking. Semi-structured interviews were carried out in the clients' own environment. Following analysis, the data revealed that clients have powerful individual views regarding the meaning of cooking. The individual's role and routine in this activity was seen to vary greatly. The occupational therapists were perceived as being sensitive to individual circumstances and assistive in developing clients' skills and confidence in the tasks. The empowering style used by the occupational therapists was highlighted as an important element in the clients' development of control over the activity. The therapists were perceived as having a number of different roles according to the stage of intervention, including supporter, teacher and facilitator. A respectful attitude towards the client was determined as being a vital element of the therapy. The study concludes that occupational therapy is valuable for teaching skills to and empowering clients with mild learning disabilities. The recommendations suggest that individualised treatment programmes are required for successful intervention. Furthermore, subsequent research into the meaning of other occupations to clients with learning disabilities would provide greater understanding of the needs of this client group in relation to occupational therapy.