These health-care providers are three of several who offer valuable services to people living with dementia

Occupational Therapist

Specialty and qualifications

An occupational therapist (OT) is trained to support a client’s physical, mental, emotional and social needs. In order to practice in Alberta, OTs must have a university degree in occupational therapy, at least 1,000 hours of supervised clinical practice and be registered with the Alberta College of Occupational Therapists.

What the job entails

OTs work collaboratively with clients to help them continue to engage in meaningful day-to-day activities, such as driving or preparing a meal. 

OTs work in a variety of settings including schools, hospitals, long-term care facilities and in clients’ homes. 

Benefits for People Living with Dementia

Working with an OT can be useful for someone living with early-stage dementia to maintain a sense of independence in their own homes. For example, an OT could work with a client to assess the safety and function of their kitchen. OTs could suggest things like identifying and labelling the contents of kitchen drawers and cupboards to allow for easier navigation to prepare meals. Read more about the role occupational therapists play in Reaching out for Rehab.

Dietitian

Specialty and qualifications

Dietitians are specifically trained food and nutrition experts. In Alberta, a registered dietitian (RD) is recognized by the College of Dietitians of Alberta. RDs must have completed a four-year bachelor’s degree with a focus on food and nutrition, as well as supervised practical training. 

What the job entails

RDs work closely with a person’s health-care team to address their individual diet and nutrition needs. 

RDs also conduct research, direct nutrition programs and can be responsible for shaping public health policy.

Benefits for People Living with Dementia

RDs can help support people living with dementia to continue to eat healthy, nourishing foods regularly. RDs can offer solutions for people who may struggle to feed themselves or require extra assistance at mealtimes.

Speech-Language Pathologist

Specialty and qualifications

Speech-Language Pathologists (S-LPs) are highly trained to evaluate, diagnose and treat a variety of language, communication and swallowing issues. S-LPs have a minimum of a master’s degree in their field, and they work with patients of all ages, from infants to older adults. To practice in Alberta, they must be registered with the Alberta College of Speech Language Pathologists and Audiologists.

What the job entails

S-LPs are communication experts. They cover a broad scope of issues, from stuttering and literacy challenges to effective social skills and eating concerns.  

Benefits for People Living with Dementia

S-LPs can be an integral part of a person living with dementia’s care team. Working with an S-LP can help people with dementia continue to communicate as effectively as possible. S-LPs can also help manage dysphagia, or swallowing difficulties, which increases quality of life.  [ ]