Occupational therapy and inclusive design : principles for practice

This publication is designed to provide occupational therapy practitioners and students with the ability to problem-solve with confidence, apply clinical reasoning and make sound professional judgements regarding the suitability of products and environments for their clients.

The relevance of design concepts to Occupational Therapy will be illustrated in a broad context with reference to the profession's philosophy, conceptual models of practice, relevant legislation and review of Health and Social Care discourse.

Ergonomic tools and techniques for practice will be reviewed and related to the seven principles of Universal Design.

Case scenarios will be presented and illustrated with pictures and drawings to guide the reader through the inclusive design process as it relates to occupational therapists in a variety of settings.

Environmental and product design will be explored in relation to the seven principles.Additionally, the book aims to give a voice to occupational therapists as specifiers of equipment, property adaptations and increasingly, as advisors to new dwelling and other building projects, with the aim of influencing manufacturers and building agencies in the adoption of inclusive design principles at the product/building design phase.

This publication's unique focus is to present an integrated account of the relevant policy supporting service provision, in conjunction with core Occupational Therapy philosophy and the application of principles of Universal Design to case scenarios.