3 minute read
Group therapy restarts at KNH
By Moses Njomo
Group Therapy for Sensory Integration Program was started at Kenyatta National Hospital in 2020 but took a recess after Covid-19 restrictions.
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The good news, however, is that operations resumed in April 2022.
This program mainly focuses on assisting children with sensory processing disorders to learn how to respond to their senses and environment appropriately.
Various services are offered by the Group therapy for sensory integration program which works to ensure better results among children with Sensory Processing Disorders. They include brain gym activities that help the child boost their brain function and improve their eyesight and creativity.
The children are taken through cognitive stimulation which helps them improve their attention span and memory. Gross motor activities are also offered which enable the children to perform everyday functions such as walking, running, skipping as well as playing skills, since children with sensory processing issues may have decreased motor skills in terms of gross motor tasks. Other services offered include individual therapy, communication skills, and sensory gym activities.
Team leader Sensory Integration Unit and occupational therapist at KNH, Mr. Bonface Kaimenyi, said that due to the lack of public awareness of sensory processing disorders in Kenya, the program had taken the initiative of reaching out to the general public through Kenyatta National Hospital social media platforms: https://youtu.be/ mofZZeWRFH4 and educating them on sensory processing disorder symptoms and the importance of early intervention; as well as making them aware of the quality affordable services offered at the facility.
Mr. Kaimenyi further said the comprehensive assessment and review of clients are done by a multidisciplinary team for better clinical outcome.
He added that the sensory Integration Program has gone an extra mile in improving its services by introducing a child-friendly sensory gym which is equipped with a trampoline, tunnels, peanut ball, earmuffs, therapy mats, cognitive assorted toys, pit balls, and a weighted vest just to mention but a few.
One of the many testimonials about how effective the program is included that of a client who after assessment, was identified with poor social skills, impaired communication, delayed speech, and after going through seven intense therapy sessions, the client was able to make a major improvement on cognitive and motor abilities.
On behalf of the program, Mr. Kaimenyi urges the public to reach out to the KNH Occupational Therapy Unit for more details and information. He looks forward to the program generating interest and engagement among the public.
Jannifer Jeria - Occupational therapist helps a patient carry out Peg-board activity to enhance cognitive activity improving attention and concentration.
PHOTO |STEVE ARWA
MAIN PHOTO |STEVE ARWA
