St Loye's Independent Living Centre: an analysis of assessments.

An analysis of 1156 assessment forms was carried out in order to: (a) provide a baseline for an evaluation study, and (b) enable service characteristics to be developed. It was estimated that 1156 accounted for 70% of the total number of disabled people who visited the centre over a 5-year period. The assessments, completed by an experienced occupational therapist (OT), recorded demographic details and some of the problems encountered by disabled people with daily living activities. The greatest demand for the service came from the over-60 age group and, in particular, women aged between 70 and 79 years. A total of 79% (n = 693) of referrals were made by health workers; of that number, 81% (n = 561) were referred by an OT. Few referrals came from general practitioners. The most frequently reported medical condition affected the musculoskeletal system. The most frequently reported problem with daily living activities was bathing/showering. The amount of time spent on an assessment occupied a large proportion of the OT's capacity. Implications for the service are discussed.