Abstract
This chapter aims to examine the role that occupational therapists play when working with older people who are terminally ill. Some therapists may choose to specialize in the care of people with terminal illness and assist many clients who are known to be dying. Others, such as those working in aged care settings, may encounter many clients who are near the end of life. Regardless of work setting or clinical specialty, it is likely that all therapists, over the course of their careers, will work with at least one older client who is dying. This is particularly so given the worldwide aging population and the growth in health services to this group internationally (Davies & Higginson, 2004). Therefore, it is important for all therapists to understand the issues people face at the end of their lives so that they are prepared to assist clients at this stage.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Title of host publication | Functional Performance in Older Adults |
| Editors | Bette R. Bonder, Vanina Dal Bello-Haas |
| Place of Publication | U.S. |
| Publisher | FA Davis |
| Pages | 633-655 |
| Number of pages | 23 |
| Edition | 3 |
| ISBN (Print) | 9780803616882 |
| Publication status | Published - 2009 |