ABSTRACT
This chapter highlights important aspects to consider in relation to information-gathering and risk assessment. It explains the role of an occupational therapist (OT) and how an OT can be invaluable in supporting the individual to develop the skills she needs to increase independence and insight into her difficulties, which will optimise engagement in specific capacity assessments and decisions. Multi-disciplinary team reports and assessments are invaluable here to highlight issues and provide evidence and rich detail to support the process. The central focus of an OT assessment is to determine a person’s strengths and difficulties through observation within a particular task. A core skill of the OT is the assessment and management of risk whilst simultaneously working towards realisation of a person’s preferred option. An important aspect when considering the person’s preferred option during the capacity assessment process, and a key part of OT practice, is the role of positive risk-taking.
