JustOT, Occupational Therapy Jobs

Occupational therapist discusses benefits of new GPS service

Wednesday 26th August 2009

An occupational therapist has spoken out about the possible benefits of a new global positioning satellite (GPS) service.

Dawn Yarnold, who works at Telecare centres in Lillington and Rugby, made her comments in relation to an initiative being run by Warwickshire county council that is designed to increase the independence of people with dementia.

It involves attaching devices to patients' clothing that allows friends and relatives to track their movements.

Ms Yarnold said: "These things help keep a person at home. Being comfortable and in a familiar environment is so important.

"And the money they or their relatives save on not living in a care home can be spent elsewhere."

The medical expert went on to suggest that the devices can benefit patients with a range of conditions, not just those who suffer from dementia.

Providing a range of services to local people, Warwickshire county council is headquartered in Shire Hall, Warwick.

Written by Martin Lambert