On the occasion of World Occupational Therapy Day on October 27, ALS Quebec highlights the essential role occupational therapists play for people living with ALS. This year’s global theme, “Participation Matters,” reflects their work well: enabling everyone to keep eating, holding a cup, communicating, and staying in the living room with their family for as long as possible. We spoke with Ann-Marie Léporé.
An occupational therapist for 35 years, Ann-Marie has been a member of our board of directors since January 2024 and a volunteer with ALS Quebec since 2012. She began her career at the former Royal Victoria Hospital and the Montreal Neurological Hospital, then worked in a CLSC providing home support. She now chairs our Programs and Services Committee.
“Our profession aims to maintain independence in activities, regardless of how they are carried out. We work in every field, with every population.” – Ann-Marie
Occupational therapy: an essential ally on the ALS journey¹
An occupational therapist develops strategies to help you continue your daily activities efficiently and safely. They generally focus on fine motor skills (e.g., using your hand) and on how movements affect your abilities.
An occupational therapist can:
- assess your positioning needs, including in a wheelchair: tell them what is comfortable and what is not;
- help you choose devices to get around, communicate, and assist you in daily life;
- give you, your family, and your caregivers instructions on exercise, positioning, lifting and transfer techniques, and the use of devices;
- teach you energy conservation and time management techniques;
- advise you on modifications to make to your home and other living environments to improve your mobility and safety.
¹ Source: ALS Practical Guide, p. 29, ALS Quebec.
Need support or more information? Whether you are living with ALS or supporting a loved one who has it, ALS Quebec is here to support you at every stage of the disease and beyond.
ALS Quebec and occupational therapists: a partnership serving families
ALS Quebec works hand in hand with occupational therapists so that every person receives the right support at the right time. Together, we combine the clinical expertise of occupational therapists with our knowledge of the reality faced by people and families affected by ALS.
This collaboration is all the more valuable because ALS is unpredictable, and obtaining assistive devices can take time. Beyond assistive devices, support for caregivers is just as essential. As Ann-Marie reminds us:
“Donations also make it possible to offer support and respite services to caregivers. The healthcare system cannot fill every gap.”
Thank you to all occupational therapists for their commitment to people living with ALS and their loved ones!