During my time in the hospital (April 2020-April 2021), I noticed a recurring issue with clocks displaying inaccurate time, date, and even the year.
Access to accurate time is crucial for providing individuals with a sense of comfort, control, and orientation during their hospital stays. This small detail can help people maintain a routine, reduce anxiety, and enhance overall well-being. It is important for health and social care providers, such as the NHS, to pay attention to every detail that impacts person-centered care, including ensuring that clocks are correct and synchronized across all facilities.
In the field of occupational therapy, the term “occupation” refers to the daily activities and responsibilities that individuals engage in as part of their routines. These activities encompass self-care, productivity, leisure, and social interactions, all of which are important for promoting well-being and a better quality of life.
The concept of occupation emphasises the importance of engaging in activities that hold personal significance. Occupational therapists collaborate with their clients to identify their goals, assess their abilities, and provide strategies to enable them to participate in activities they want, need, or are required to do.
Understanding the importance of knowing the time is crucial for effective participation in activities. Knowing when to start and end activities enables individuals to better plan and schedule their day. Efficient time management is key to completing tasks successfully. Recognising the right timing allows individuals to allocate enough time for each activity, prioritise tasks, and prevent becoming overwhelmed with responsibilities.
Establishing a routine can be especially helpful for individuals facing challenges. Being conscious of the time and how long things might take helps individuals stick to their routines and promotes better stability in their activities of daily living.
As the clocks change on the 31st of March 2024, I ask that staff, patients, volunteers, and visitors take the time to notice if clocks are correct, and if they are not, take action to correct it.
Let’s prioritise the importance of time
Thanks for reading Rachel
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