Functional Cognition and Occupational Therapy: A Practical Approach to Treating Individuals With Cognitive Loss

Functional cognition describes the ability to participate in everyday activities, combining the constructs of function and cognition. Substantial literature now exists to support assessment and intervention methods for functional–cognitive deficits, and policymakers are increasingly requiring improved methods to track functional cognition and address it across health changes. This is the first comprehensive text to focus on methods to assess and develop interventions for people with functional–cognitive impairments. Numerous videos, practical how-to information, theoretical bases, OTPF–3 alignment, and current evidence guide students and clinicians in integrating assessment information into the context of clinical care. Readers can immediately apply what they learn to those with whom they work. Highlights Include— Section I. Foundations. 2 chapters provide context to define functional cognition and outline occupational therapy’s specific role in working with people with cognitive loss, including current policy considerations related to implementing strategies and reimbursement. Section II. Assessment. 14 chapters cover the principles of functional–cognitive assessment; describe performance-based ADL and IADL assessment tools in detail, including development, components, administration, scoring, and interpretation; and discuss how to use assessment information to develop a treatment plan. Section III. Intervention. 5 chapters discuss learning and transfer and how to select an intervention framework most appropriate for clients based on their assessment results. Several approaches are presented, each with background, components, treatment planning, and video demonstrations for use in practice. The section is followed by an appendix with case examples that guide readers in administering and interpreting assessments, selecting an intervention approach, developing a treatment plan, administering the treatment, and tracking progress and outcomes.