Adaptive equipment design and fabrication

Occupational therapists can play a unique role in helping disabled persons procure adaptive equipment for those special problems of daily living. Treatment using only the devices listed in various catalogues does not always provide effective solutions. Sometimes only a particular item designed and fabricated specially to solve a functional problems brings the solution needed. Yet not all occupational therapists can or should engage in designing and making assistive equipment. This paper will explore the process of problem solving used by one occupational therapist/designer as he makes adaptive equipment. Seven distinct parts of the process will be discussed as a guide for other occupational therapists who may wish to increase their skill in this area of professional activity.