Digital self management

What is digital self management?

As we’ve explored in the previous section, self management can take various forms. There are different technologies that can potentially help too, but the concept is not that different. 

You might use a paper calendar to keep track of your symptoms or triggers. Or you might go to a community notice board to find out about support groups in your area. You might also write in a diary to keep track of your sleep and activity patterns. 

Digital self management means taking the same type of actions, but with the help of technology. You might use an app to track symptoms, an online search engine to find out what is available around you or an activity tracker to track your sleep. 

These technologies, devices and digital services do some of the hard work for you, so you can focus on what matters to you

What tools are available for self management?

There are a lot of online tools available for self management today:

• some have been developed in collaboration with the NHS
• some have been developed by charities 
• some are from private companies
• Some tools are free 
• and others will incur a cost.

• Mental health
• Health Information
• Carers
• Healthy lifestyle and,
• Children and young people. 

How can I choose the right tool for my needs?

There are various places online where you can go to find some recommendations on what digital tools might benefit you. 

ALISS (A Local Information System for Scotland) is a web-based information platform. It can help you find information on local and national services that might help you to live well. Using ALISS, you can search for the services, groups, activities, and resources available in your area by using your postcode. You will be offered a list of suggestions, both local and national. Some of the national services might include digital tools. Go to ALISS 

NHS inform is Scotland's national health information service. Their aim is to provide the people in Scotland with accurate and relevant information. The information can help people make informed decisions about their own health and the health of the people they care for. They also provide a list of self-management tools and apps that have been developed or approved by NHS Scotland. Go to NHS inform 

ADAM (About Digital and Me) is a platform provided by Alzheimer Scotland. It can help you to find the right pieces of technology at the right time. It is intended for families and carers who would like to try using digital products and services to look after their health and wellbeing. Go to ADAM

ORCHA (the Organisation for the Review of Care and Health Apps)  is an organisation that reviews commercial health, care and wellbeing apps to ensure they are safe and effective. Digital Health and Care Innovation centre (DHI) I has partnered with ORCHA to create a health apps library where you can discover trusted apps trusted apps to support a wide range of health and wellbeing goals. These include apps for mental health promotion, managing long term health conditions, and achieving healthy lifestyle goals. Go to DHI health apps library . ORCHA have also partnered with Mind where you can access a mental health apps library to discover trusted apps to support your mental health and wellbeing goals. Go to Mind health apps library.

Aye Mind is a website that has been created by NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde alongside local partners with the purpose of supporting anyone who works with children and young people to confidently use digital technologies to support their mental health and wellbeing. Go to Aye Mind.

What are occupational therapists? How can they support the use of digital technologies?

Occupational therapists are interested in occupations (activities and tasks). They focus on tasks that are important to you and how you manage these everyday. For example, for one person the task of online shopping on a computer might feel like a chore. To another, it might be enjoyable and for another it might be second nature. 

Occupational therapists and everyday tasks

An occupational therapist works with an individual. They help identify what really matters to this individual. They also help them to carry out everyday tasks. An occupational therapist may suggest trying digital devices to assist with these tasks. 

For example, to enable control of a TV, access a computer or to connect with friends and family. Digital devices can also help a person navigate safely and independently around an area. They may also support an individual in their workplace by using specialist equipment.

Occupational therapists and abilities and disabilities 

An occupational therapist will help assess a person’s abilities and disabilities. This can include mental ability, hand dexterity, vision and hearing ability and posture. The person's home is also assessed. This is to help find support and adaptations to live better. 

The day to day activities are also assessed to ensure that they can manage independently. For example, charging a device, updating software and connecting to Wi-Fi. These can be new skills that need training and practice. 

Occupational therapists and teaching new skills

Occupational therapists are also able to teach new and individualised skills. They will review a person’s progress to ensure that the best outcomes are achieved for that person. This may take a few sessions or quite a long period of time to acquire. 

To find an occupational therapist go to the Royal College of Occupational Therapists.