Abstract
The characteristics of normal ageing relevant to occupational therapy practice are described in relation to the components of Kielhofner's model of human occupation. The importance of the volitional subsystem, the motivational factors, for successful treatment of elderly patients is discussed and the significance of roles and routines in the maintenance and rehabilitation of elderly people is explored. Communication and perceptual-motor performance skills are reviewed briefly. However, process skills, which include the intellectual functions of planning, problem solving, learning and memory, are examined in more detail in order to dispel some of the stereotypes of elderly people which limit their function by lowering public and health care workers' expectations.
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