ABSTRACT
This chapter aims to provide why and how occupational therapists in Community Mental Health Teams in Leicestershire started to address the needs of people with dementia. It also aims to explore the journey undertaken to change style of work and to discuss the process of assessment and provision, illustrating this with case studies. The assessment process involved gathering information about people's abilities and preferences. Initially, gathering information can seem daunting, as each person has a wealth of personal history and many different abilities. Better tools helped to identify the right type and level of activity for people. Evaluation methods were used to establish whether what was offered had any benefits for people with dementia. Experience helped to generate more ideas and increased confidence. The role of occupational therapist and the way it could address the occupational needs of people with dementia was discussed.
