Cooking independently again: a kitchen for rehabilitation has been set up at a hospital in Mykolaiv

An occupational therapy kitchen has been set up in the rehabilitation department of Mykolaiv City Hospital No. 3. It is designed to help patients regain self-care skills after serious illnesses, combat injuries, or amputations, so they can be more independent in their daily lives.

This specially equipped, barrier-free space recreates a home environment. Under the supervision of specialists, patients practise everyday activities:

• learning to use household appliances and kitchen utensils;
• learning to prepare food safely;
• improving fine motor skills and coordination.

The sessions help patients regain everyday skills, including after injuries, being fitted with prostheses, or acquiring a disability. Rehabilitation should address not only motor function but also the skills needed to manage everyday life.

Pouring themselves a cup of tea or making breakfast may seem like simple tasks, but they are important steps towards independence. Regaining these skills helps patients feel more confident and return to their usual routines.

Source: Mykolaiv City Council.

Previously, we wrote:

• Restoring movement: Hospital No. 3 in Mykolaiv is now using electrical muscle stimulation
• Rehabilitation for veterans: where and how to access it
• Recovery at a new level: a hospital in Mykolaiv’s Korabelnyi district gets hi-tech rehabilitation equipment
• A hospital in Korabelnyi district launches a modernised rehabilitation department
• He hasn’t lost hope: Mykolaiv warrior “Odin” continues military service with a prosthesis