In recent years there has been a trend, in Britain, Canada, the US and Australia, for occupational therapists to provide for the needs of adults with a mental handicap in the community rather than the hospital. This development has left many occupational therapists little time or opportunity to share experiences and learn from others' mistakes. There have previously, however, existed no guidebooks for their use which have had a direct application to the community setting. This book is a practical guide for occupational therapists working with adults with a mental handicap in the community. The book covers the role of the occupational therapist in this setting, the practicalities of moving mentally handicapped adults out of hospital and into the community, skills training and the use of group and individual work with clients. Other issues dealt with are the development of suitable housing, employment opportunities and the stresses and problems of community work for the therapist and client. This book should be of interest to occupational therapists and community workers.
