The Pool Activity Level (PAL) Instrument for Occupational Profiling

The purpose of this book is to provide a method to promote occupation and activity among people with a range of cognitive impairments… The PAL instrument provides clear instructions to engage people in activity and provides examples of activities in daily living… This edition also contains additional case studies which are particularly useful to assist with applying these in a practical everyday way… This addition adds a new focus to the sensory level of functioning and provides valuable insight into the importance of sensory stimulation and the impacts of sensory deprivation within dementia, while examining how to overcome these challenges within activity. – This practical resource for the implementation of the Pool Activity Level (PAL) is an easy to use assessment, treatment guide and outcome measure of occupations in those living with cognitive impairment. – British Journal of Occupational TherapyThis isn’t another exercise in form-filling to look good; it’s packed with photocopiable “instruments” and plans, and very believable case studies. Highly recommended. – Caring TimesThe assessment tools helped us devise activities for a gentleman that suited his abilities at that moment in time. He came out at sensory level so we have now been able to look at activities that he is able to manage comfortably and he is happier. We have now made a weekly plan for him, at his own level and with a variety to suit his mood and cognition on that day. It has made such a difference and improved his days. The book was an essential tool for us to be able to identify his functional ability and then obtain resources to develop meaningful activities for him. This has not only improved his day but also that of others who do not have dementia but have enjoyed the group activities. We are going to use the tool for all of them so their activities can be more tailored to their individual needs. The book was more than worth the money I paid for it and has opened up a stream of ideas from staff. – Anne Boulton, Manager, Southend-on-Sea Borough CouncilThe purpose of this book is to provide a method to promote occupation and activity among people with a range of cognitive impairments… The PAL instrument provides clear instructions to engage people in activity and provides examples of activities in daily living… This edition also contains additional case studies… Overall, the Pool activity instrument for Occupational profiling appears to be gaining in strength, direction and increasing its evidence base. Its use, ability and practical applications continue to grow and when used effectively promotes occupation in an effective person centred way. – Katie Glare, Occupational Therapist * Signpost *

Jackie Pool is an Occupational Therapist specializing in the development and provision of programs and materials for leadership and workforce development in dementia care. She sat on the National Dementia Strategy Reference Group and was commissioned by Skills for Care to write the QCF dementia units for the national health and social care qualifications. She has published extensively and speaks at many conferences in the field of dementia care.