Occupational Therapists are often called in not just to support function, but to restore confidence in daily life. In this case study, we explore how one community OT helped her client, Joan, re-engage with a key daily task – making tea – using two simple assistive tools:
Client Overview:
- Client: Joan, 82, lives independently in sheltered housing
- Primary concerns: Osteoarthritis in both hands, occasional hand tremors, reduced grip strength, and low confidence following a minor kitchen burn.
- Goal: To continue making her own hot drinks safely without needed carer assistance.
OT Assessment & Approach:
The OT assessed Joan’s kitchen setup during a home visit.
Key observations included:
- Difficulty lifting a full kettle from its base.
- Kettle being rested on lip of mug when pouring and mug slipping on smooth counter top during the pour.
- Fatigue and hesitation when handling boiling water.
- High anxiety following her previous burn.
Joan expressed that making her own tea was ”one of the last things I still do for myself” and losing that would feel like a significant step backward in independence.
Intervention: Uccello Kettle & Grip Mat:
To address both physical limitations and emotional confidence, the OT recommended:
- Uccello Kettle – its tilt-to-pour action eliminated the need to lift or grip a heavy object; it offered a safe, steady pour with minimal effort.
- Uccello Grip Mat – placed beneath Joan’s mug, it provided a stable surface that stopped sliding during the pour and also acted as a safe cup guide with the kettle.
The OT trialed both products with Joan during the session. After just one attempt, Joan commented: ”That’s the first time I’ve felt safe doing this in months”
Outcomes After Two Weeks:
- Joan successfully returned to making her own tea twice daily.
- No further spills or burns reported.
- Increased confidence observed during follow-up.
- Carer noted improved morale and greater participation in other small tasks.
The OT noted that while the intervention was simple, the impact on Joan’s independence and well being was significant.
Key Takeaways for OTs:
- The right assistive tools can make a meaningful difference with minimal adaptation.
- Clients often attach emotional value to ”small tasks” like making a cup of tea.
- Addressing confidence and safety together is critical to supporting independent living.
- Tools like the Uccello Kettle and Grip Mat work best when introduced through guided use in a supportive setting.
Interested in Trialing These Tools?
We support OTs across the UK with samples, resources, and client education tools. Contact us to arrange your product demonstration or request literature: customercare@uccellodesigns.com
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