Case Study Takeaway: Stephen Hawking

Before Sarah's presentation the only knowledge I had of Stephen Hawking was from the TV show The Big Band Theory, so today was obviously a more educational experience. I had no idea that he was diagnosed at such a young age of 21, being healthy and not having any risk factors. I also thought it was really interesting how he controls all of his devices (speech, typing, chair, alarm clock, etc.), using the infrared sensor that is controlled by movement of a muscle in his cheek.
Sarah mentioned an OT intervention to maintain the activity of the muscle in his cheek, which I'm sure is one of his biggest goals so that he can continue to communicate and engage in his daily occupations. Lastly, I really liked that Sarah stressed the importance of OT intervention with the caregiver. Because Stephen uses so many high-tech assistive technology devices and needs assistance to take care of them, educating his caregiver(s) on maintenance of the devices is critical in ensuring that he can engage in his daily occupations.

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