Clinical report: use of the Canadian Occupational Performance Measure in vision technology.
BACKGROUND
The Canadian Occupational Performance Measure (COPM) has gained wide acceptance in general occupational therapy research and practice, however, the use of the COPM in assistive technology assessments and outcomes is not as well documented.


OBJECTIVE
This clinical report discusses the utility of the COPM in assistive technology, as illustrated by the assessment and follow-up of clients requiring high technology vision aids.


RESULTS
The COPM makes important contributions to the outcomes of providing vision aids. The COPM ensures a needs review that incorporates all areas of occupational performance, which in turn directs the clinician to match the technology to client needs. From a clinical perspective, the quantitative follow-up data are helpful to determine clients' improvement in occupational performance as well as their satisfaction with the assistive technology. For administrative purposes, the COPM results provides accountability to the funding agency.


CONCLUSIONS
The COPM can be readily integrated into the assessment and follow-up of assistive technology service delivery and adds value to both components of the process.
Petty
Linda S
LS
Adaptive Technology Resource Centre, University of Toronto, ON. linda.petty@utoronto.ca
McArthur
Laurie
L
Treviranus
Jutta
J
D000203:Activities of Daily Living; D002170:Canada; D004185:Disability Evaluation; D006801:Humans; D009788:Occupational Therapy; D012647:Self-Assessment; D019987:Persons with Visual Disabilities / Q000534:rehabilitation*