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New report calls for a focus to maximise the independence of those in older age
The Chief Medical Officer for England , Professor Chris Whitty , has released the Annual Report 2023 . Health in an ageing society , calls for a focus to maximise the independence of those in older age and minimise the time in ill health between reaching old age and the end of life .
The report , which details a rise of multimorbidity in older demographics , sets out recommendations including the need for systematic planning from the NHS social care , central and local government based on where the population will age in the future .
It outlines how we can maintain older people ’ s independence through reducing disease to prevent , delay and minimise disability and frailty , and how we can change the environment so that people can maintain their independence longer .
Commenting , RCOT Director of Practice and Innovation , Karin Orman , said : ‘ The Chief Medical Officer ’ s focus on prioritising and enhancing quality of life is absolutely something occupational therapists support . We help people to carry out the occupations they want and need to do , with the aim of improving their quality of life . It ’ s all about living and not existing .
‘ It ’ s good to see occupational therapists included in the recommendations , particularly in the areas of community services , falls prevention , multidisciplinary team working , and social care .
‘ Through our participation in helping to shape this report , we advocated for our members and the role of occupational therapy in promoting
It ’ s good to see occupational therapists included in the recommendations , particularly in the areas of community services , falls prevention , multidisciplinary team working , and social care .”
healthy ageing and safety , and preventing illness or dependency on care in later life .’
Download the report at https :// bit . ly / 3R6YbRy .
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RCOT calls on the new minister for health and social care to recognise the contribution OTs can make in reducing pressure on the NHS
In a cabinet reshuffle by Prime Minister Rishi Sunak last month , Victoria Atkins was named as the new Secretary of State for Health and Social Care , after Steve Barclay was moved to the environment department .
Ms Atkins has been financial secretary to the Treasury since last October , and before this she was prisons and probations minister .
Commenting on the appointment , RCOT Policy and Public Affairs Manager , Benjamin Powick , said : ‘ It is a concern that there is not only a lack of stability and consistency in the Department for Health and Social Care , but also that changes are being made just as we move into winter , which is already a time of extreme high pressure for our health services .
‘ We hope that the new minister will recognise the contribution OTs can make in reducing pressure on the NHS . Occupational therapists can help prevent admission to hospital and , following admission , can help facilitate early discharge .
‘ However , at the moment , there aren ’ t enough occupational therapists for the demand , so there needs to be a real focus on addressing these workforce challenges .
‘ Placing occupational therapists where they can make the most difference , particularly in GP surgeries , schools , and as a core part of rehabilitation teams , means that more people will get support to carry out the occupations they need and want to do , and will be directed to the right services sooner .’
December 2023 OTnews 7