Karen* lives in supported accommodation and expressed a desire to build her independence through learning how to cook. With limited functional mobility of one arm, Carpentaria’s Occupational Therapist (OT) focused on ensuring Karen could safely meet her goals.
OT sessions focused on 1:1 kitchen skills as well as training Karen’s team of Support Workers. Together, they broke cooking tasks into manageable steps so Karen could take the lead in choosing recipes, preparing ingredients and cooking a range of different meals.
Karen now cooks with her Support Workers each night. She searches YouTube for new recipes and practices her skills. Karen has built confidence, developed practical life skills, and found new ways to express her creativity. She proudly wears her new chef’s hat as a symbol of her achievements and growing independence.
*Name changed