For most people unlocking a door or buttoning a shirt are simple, everyday tasks.

But for those who have been involved in accidents or with debilitating conditions even the simplest of tasks can become a struggle.

Occupational therapists in Bristol work with patients to help them find ways around doing the everyday things that have become difficult and advise them on devices they can use to make their lives easier.

At the Avon Orthopaedic Centre at Southmead Hospital the needs of individuals are assessed in real-life situations. There is a fully-equipped kitchen with working ovens, kettle and other devices so that people can demonstrate the tasks they find difficult and learn how to get around the problems they present.

Arthritis sufferer Angela Miles, feels that the occupational therapists have allowed her to keep a level of independence that would not otherwise have been possible.

She has suffered with psoriatic arthritis, which causes pain, stiffness and swelling in and around the joints, for 30 years.

Mrs Miles, of Romney Avenue, Lockleaze, said: "My husband, David, works full time, and while he is lovely and does things for me, I want to be able to do them myself.

"It gives me independence. I can dress and do everything that had been such an ordeal.

"I couldn't manage without the help I have been given over the years."

She has been helped by occupational therapist, Tish Beamish, who said that occupational therapy is about re-thinking how to do things so that they can be adapted to the needs of the individual.

Mrs Miles cannot lift heavy items because she has had her shoulders replaced and had to retire from her work with the careers service due to her arthritis.

She said: "Because I'm disabled my limbs don't work and I also used to drop my key a few times and picking it up was difficult. The key turner I have has a nice big handle.

"Tish has also told me where to go to get extra mirrors for the car because I cannot move very well.

"The help I get from her is invaluable. They are so wonderful and give me my independence."

One of the practical tips Mrs Miles was given that has helped make her life easier, was to buy a cheap plastic garden chair so that she could shower after a recent operation. She also has a hand-held device to use to help fasten buttons on a blouse.

As well as coming up with practical ideas and showing patients devices that could make their lives easier, the occupational therapists can make simple aids.

Mrs Miles has a splint she uses to rest her hands, so that they are supported comfortably and swelling reduces.

It was made by the therapists who are trained in moulding a special type of plastic to fit patients.

Clare Waggett, occupational therapist, said: "We focus on the functional tasks, the things we need to do every day to look after ourselves and participate in life.

"We work in all areas of health, orthopaedics, paediatric, anything where people have a disability for whatever reason, psychologically and physically."

"We come at it from a problem-solving approach. We talk to the individual and ask what is going on and how important it is for them to do certain things themselves.