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With her homebase at Fishermen’s Memorial Hospital in Lunenburg, occupational therapist (OT) Robin Philp is part of the Seniors Community Health Team. She can often be found in the community supporting clients to stay safely in their homes.
Philp was recognized as one of Nova Scotia’s 2024 patient safety champions for her commitment to patient safety.
Her nomination from a co-worker reads, “Robin is the sole occupational therapist on the Seniors’ Team. She works closely with her clients and their families to make home safety a priority. Most folks wish to stay in their home as long as possible. Robin helps foster that goal by recommending home safety equipment and home adaptations and adjustments.”
In her community-based role, Philp provides support to senior clients aged 65 and older with complex health issues, including degenerative disorders, dementias and Alzheimer's disease.
However, she’s not alone. The Seniors Community Health Team is a multidisciplinary team that’s made up of OT, physiotherapy, pharmacy, nursing, social work and a dietician. The team works closely with a geriatrician and a care of the elderly physician.
“Nothing happens in a vacuum. So, the team approach is super important,” said Philp. “We come together to look at a client’s situation with our own expertise and lens, ensuring the client is set up for success at home and connected to the right resources.”
Safety is a core priority for Philp. When starting with a client, she completes a geriatric assessment of the client, their home environment and the family support. This allows her to identify potential risks and determine resources or support to mitigate the risks.
Each assessment is tailored to the individual, evaluating their unique needs and the family dynamics, to create a supportive environment for the client’s specific circumstances.
Philp often addresses issues related to falls prevention, a major concern for elderly clients. By focusing on factors that can contribute to falls—such as mobility challenges and environmental hazards—she aims to help patients maintain their independence safely.
“Falls prevention is essential not only for an individual’s health but also for reducing strain on families and the healthcare system,” explained Philp. “Once a fall occurs, individuals face an increased risk of prolonged hospital stays, further injuries and other health complications.”
“While it’s impossible to prevent all falls," Philp continued, "we can mitigate some of those risk factors.”
Her assessments allow her to customize safety solutions for each patient, whether it’s recommending equipment or designing strategies to reduce injury risk should a fall occur.
Beyond falls, Philp addresses patient safety concerns for clients with cognitive impairments. For individuals with dementia or other memory-related conditions, she considers issues such as the potential for wandering or the safe use of appliances.
Working closely with families, Philp offers guidance to help these clients can remain in their homes safely.
Philp enjoys working with the geriatric population. She values the opportunity to connect with clients on a personal level, learning about their lives, stories and unique backgrounds.
“I have the luxury of spending time getting to know my clients,” Philp shared. “This time enables me to better understand each client, fosters a deeper connection and enhances the quality of care.”