Occupational therapy for Huntington’s disease: How MSWA can support you
Huntington’s disease is a progressive neurological condition that can significantly affect movement, cognition and emotional wellbeing. As symptoms develop over time, individuals with Huntington’s may find everyday tasks increasingly challenging.
At MSWA, we understand how profoundly Huntington’s can affect not only the individual but their families too. While there is no cure for the condition, evidence-based interventions can make daily life safer, more manageable and more meaningful. Occupational therapy is one of those vital supports.
Our team of experienced MSWA Occupational Therapists (OTs) works across Western Australia to provide person-centred, holistic care tailored to every stage of the Huntington’s journey.
Whether you’ve just been diagnosed or your needs have changed over time, we’re here to help you stay active, empowered and connected.
Understanding Huntington’s disease and its impact
Huntington’s disease is a hereditary condition causing progressive breakdown of nerve cells in the brain. It typically presents in mid-adulthood, although juvenile forms can occur. As the disease progresses, people may experience:
- Involuntary movements (chorea) and resulting mobility challenges
- Decline in cognitive function (memory, focus and planning)
- Behavioural and psychiatric changes (depression, irritability)
- Difficulties with speech and swallowing
- Fatigue and low motivation
These cognitive, physical and emotional changes can make it harder to manage daily tasks. That’s where MSWA’s Occupational Therapists offer support – providing practical tools, strategies and adaptations to guide people through their journey.
Six ways MSWA Occupational Therapists support people with Huntington’s
Huntington’s disease is a hereditary condition causing progressive breakdown of nerve cells in the brain. It typically presents in mid-adulthood, although juvenile forms can occur. As the disease progresses, people may experience:
- Involuntary movements (chorea) and resulting mobility challenges
- Decline in cognitive function (memory, focus and planning)
- Behavioural and psychiatric changes (depression, irritability)
- Difficulties with speech and swallowing
- Fatigue and low motivation
These cognitive, physical and emotional changes can make it harder to manage daily tasks. That’s where MSWA’s Occupational Therapists offer support – providing practical tools, strategies and adaptations to guide people through their journey.
1. Promoting independence in daily living
One of the core goals of occupational therapy for Huntington’s is to help individuals maintain independence in their daily routines for as long as possible.
Working closely with Clients and their families, MSWA OTs conduct comprehensive Functional Capacity Assessments (FCA) as required by the NDIS, to evaluate how symptoms affect daily tasks such as:
- Getting showered and dressed
- Preparing meals
- Using phones, tablets and other technology
- Home management (paying bills, buying groceries etc.)
- Access to the home and accessibility within the home
By identifying specific challenges, our OTs can recommend assistive technology (like shower chairs or dressing aids), break tasks into manageable steps or suggest environmental modifications to make life easier. Based on these assessments, we then compile detailed reports for NDIS, Home Care Packages or other funding schemes to ensure you receive the support you need.
2. Supporting cognition and emotional wellbeing
As Huntington’s progresses, cognitive changes — including difficulties with planning, memory, concentration and emotional regulation — can become more noticeable.
MSWA OTs introduce practical tools to support cognitive health, including:
- Structured routines to reduce confusion and anxiety
- Visual cues or memory aids (like labels, checklists or orientation cues)
- Time management tools
- Mindfulness and stress management techniques
Where needed, we provide additional cognitive assessments and practical strategies as well as guidance for family members and carers to best support you along the way. Additionally, we collaborate closely with MSWA’s Counsellors to address emotional changes such as apathy, anxiety or frustration to, help Clients stay motivated and engaged.
3. Enhancing motor skills and mobility
Many people with Huntington’s experience muscle weakness, coordination issues and involuntary movements. MSWA Occupational Therapists help by tailoring interventions to maximise function and safety.
This might include:
- Upper limb strengthening and coordination exercises
- Activities to maintain fine motor control (such as puzzles, crafts)
- Home environment advice to reduce and manage falls
- Fatigue management and energy conservation strategies
- Recommending equipment like ergonomic cutlery, non-slip mats
- Prescribing assistive technology like wheelchairs or electric beds
Together with MSWA Physiotherapists and Speech Pathologists, we provide a holistic care plan tailored to specific needs.
4. Home and living services
As symptoms progress, the home often needs adjustments to support safety and accessibility. OTs conduct thorough home visits and accommodation assessments to recommend modifications such as:
- Grab rails, ramps and non-slip flooring
- Smart home devices to simplify daily tasks
- Improvements to your sleep environment
- Modifying areas of the home to support fatigue management
These adjustments can help reduce carer stress, promote autonomy and accessibility and delay the need for residential care. If required, MSWA can also assist with the funding and coordination of modifications through the NDIS Home and Living Supports.
5. Supporting communication and mealtimes
Although speech and swallowing fall more directly under the scope of MSWA Speech Pathologists, our OTs work collaboratively to provide comprehensive support.
This might involve:
- Supporting hand control for writing or touchscreen use
- Advice on posture and seating to support safe eating and drinking
- Selecting assistive technology to work together with communication aids
By working collaboratively, MSWA OTs help ensure that communication and mealtime remain safe, dignified and as enjoyable as possible.
6. Planning for the future
Because Huntington’s is progressive, our OTs work to support Clients and their families with proactive planning by helping to identify future goals and potential challenges:
This could include:
- Discussing future accommodation and care preferences (from in-home to supported accommodation)
- Building routines that can adapt to changing needs
- Selecting assistive technology which can adapt to changing symptoms and function
At MSWA, we believe empowering families with this forward-thinking approach reduces uncertainty and ensures your future care aligns with your values and preferences.
MSWA: Experts in Occupational Therapy for Huntington’s Disease
At MSWA, we’ve been supporting people living with neurological conditions, including Huntington’s disease, for more than 50 years.
Our team of experienced Occupational Therapists work with Clients across Western Australia to provide person-centred, flexible support at every stage of the journey with Huntington’s.
Whether you’re newly diagnosed or are seeking specialised care as your needs change, our OTs can help with:
- Comprehensive assessments
- Tailored therapy plans
- Home modifications and assistive technology
- Support for carers and families
We know that no two people experience Huntington’s the same way. That’s why our therapy services are built around you — your goals, your challenges, and your lifestyle.
And because shared knowledge and peer connection can be so valuable, we also run regular Occupational Therapy led groups and workshops designed to give you practical strategies to make everyday life easier and more meaningful.
Take the next step with MSWA
Huntington’s disease presents complex challenges but with the right support, people can continue to lead purposeful, fulfilling lives.
MSWA Occupational Therapists empower individuals to maintain independence in daily life, feel confident and supported, and plan for the future with clarity and care.
If you or a loved one is navigating life with Huntington’s, remember that you’re not alone. Our dedicated team at MSWA is here to support you every step of the way.
Get in touch and find out how MSWA’s Occupational Therapy services can help you live your version of best.
