Promoting occupational therapy by using a simulated hemiplegic arm to demonstrate dressing technique.

When creating a promotional booth to increase awareness about occupational therapy remember that (a) people learn by participating and (b) positive reinforcement encourages a greater sense of learning. In addition, follow these rules: (a) keep the task simple, (b) eliminate jargon and use nonmedical terms, (c) encourage interaction and reward thoughtful reflections, and (d) make sure that participants leave with some promotional materials in hand. As described here participants acquired a hemiplegic arm and tried to dress. They were immediately rewarded with an occupational therapy sticker. Acting as patients, they experienced visual deficits with a special pair of glasses. The occupational therapist encouraged people to ask questions about dressing and visual deficits and about the display of splints and adaptive equipment. People helped themselves to occupational therapy promotional buttons and literature. They left with a basic understanding of hemiplegia. They also understood how an occupational therapist works with a patient to help the patient regain functional independence.