Multiple Errands Test (MET)

  • by glarehab
  • Feb 20, 2015
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Multiple Errands Test (MET)

Executive functioning involves the ability to plan and reason, organize, decision making, problem solving, task flexibility and execution.

The Multiple Errands Test (MET) evaluates executive function deficits on every-day tasks. It incorporates a number of “real-world” tasks in a community setting such as negotiating the grocery store or department store, following a grocery list and making reasonable decisions based on grocery cost.

The MET was developed by Shallice and Burgess in 1991 and it was intended to evaluate an individual’s ability to organize simple tasks while following simple rules. It was initially only used in a hospital setting and then expanded to within the community.

There are currently several versions of the MET including the Hospital Version and Baycrest Version, a small shopping plaza Simplified Version and virtual reality environment Virtual Version.

At GLA, we have created our own version of the MET within the community, either at a familiar grocery store or mall. The client is asked to complete a various number of simple tasks while following a set of rules. Within the assessment, the OT is observing how the individual carries out the tasks and whether there are any inefficiencies, rule breaks, or task failures.

As it is not a standardized assessment, the OTs are using the assessment purely from an observation perspective.

It allows the OTs to determine how the client is able to follow a set of instructions, organize and make decisions, while negotiating the community.

Cognitive assessments are often completed in the comfort of one’s home, where there are no distractions present. However, real life is full of distractions and in order for the OT to get a complete picture of how the client is functioning, they need to be assessed outside of their home.

Completing this assessment as part of our thorough Cognitive Assessment Report is unique to GLA and helps our OTs determine difficulties experienced by the client with regards to independent living. It can also assist with improving awareness with clients lacking insight into their problems as it is done in real life situation.

The OT can use the results of the MET in order to support attendant care benefits and occupational therapy treatment.

The MET demonstrates how executive dysfunction impacts everyday activities, evaluates function in a range of real-life activities. It is simple to administer.

There are some disadvantages of using the MET including the fact that

  • It is difficult to administer with people who have mobility issues
  • Familiarity with the context of the test may skew the results

To learn more about the MET or other assessments used at GLA, please contact us. We would be happy to provide you with more information.

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How to Ergonomically Optimize your Office Space to Avoid Back Pain

  • by glarehab
  • Feb 20, 2015
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How to Ergonomically Optimize your Office Space to Avoid Back Pain

Low back discomfort/sprain/strain is a common symptom following a motor vehicle accident, especially when hit from behind. The most common diagnosis after a rear-end accident that affects both the neck and the back is a Whiplash, which is caused when the body is thrown forward suddenly.

The severity of an individual’s back pain can vary from minor to severe, depending on the type of injury, severity of the impact and pre-existing conditions. Many individuals begin a physiotherapy program to strengthen their back muscles when suffering back pain.

It is important after a minor back injury to continue to participate in your everyday activities as much as you can as opposed to relaxing by lying down. It may be necessary to ergonomically correct your office space and computer station in order to avoid further discomfort.

Here are some tips to remember when adjusting your work station:

1.Utilize a proper chair and maintain a healthy posture: consider an ergonomic office chair that offers arms rests, an adjustable seat height, adjustable backrest height and lumbar support. You want to ensure that the listed features provide you with a posture that is upright, keeping your spine in its naturally slightly curved position. Without these features, our spine tends to slouch, which may aggravate back pain further. As well, make sure your chair is adjusted so that your feet are flat on the floor or resting on a low foot rest.

2. Ensure that your keyboard and monitor are at the proper height. Your monitor should be slightly below (30°) eye level to avoid neck strain and a further slouched posture. A simple laptop stand or hard covered book may be enough to raise your monitor to the appropriate height. A keyboard shelf may be needed to provide a proper 90 degree bend at the elbow when typing.

3. Keep frequently used objects, such as a telephone, stapler or printed materials close to your body to avoid excessive reaching and stretching.

4. Take a break every 30 minutes to stretch and go for a short walk. If you forget, set an alarm for every 30 minutes to remind you to take this break.

5. Consider further accessories such as a wrist rest for the mouse and keyboard, document holder, or headset to avoid further straining movements or cordless devices.

These are just a few tips to remember to help you reduce back strain at the office. An Occupational Therapist can further assist you with making recommendations at your workstation based on your type of injury.

To learn more about ergonomic office spaces and OT at GLA, please contact us. We would be happy to provide you with more information.

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