Digital Commons Network^™

Breaking Barriers: Empowering Mothers Through Occupation-Based Education, Jessica J. Valencia, Justine Faghihifar, Wendy Tremaine

Summer 2026 OTD Capstone Symposium

This capstone project evaluated the implementation of an occupational therapy-informed educational program for mothers, with children under the age of 18, who have experienced intimate partner violence at Genesis Women's Shelter & Support. The purpose of the project was to promote occupational engagement through education focused on stress management, sleep and rest, routines and habits, memory and attention, parenting and communication, and leisure participation. A needs assessment informed the development of a six-week bilingual intervention consisting of group and individual sessions. Program outcomes were evaluated using pre- and post-intervention assessments, participant feedback, and clinical observations. The project demonstrated improvements in …

Empowering Independence For Young Adults With Disabilities, Grace Sloan, Wendy Tremaine

Summer 2026 OTD Capstone Symposium

Young adults with disabilities often face challenges in maintaining and finding employment, living independently, and participating socially. The purpose of this capstone project was to develop a program to enhance job readiness, independent living, and social participation skills for young adults with disabilities. This project highlighted the need for occupation-based activities to support the transition from high school to adulthood for young adults with disabilities.

Empowering Amputees Through Education And Resources To Improve Independence And Quality Of Life, Brooke A. Hodges, Wendy M. Tremaine

Summer 2026 OTD Capstone Symposium

This doctoral capstone project aimed to develop and implement an evidence-based educational toolkit to increase community resource awareness for individuals with amputations. The project was completed at Baylor Scott & White Institute for Rehabilitation in Dallas, Texas, and involved adult patients with limb loss and rehabilitation healthcare professionals. A needs assessment was conducted using surveys, semi-structured interviews, and informal discussions to identify educational gaps and resource needs. Findings informed the development of educational materials addressing mental health, peer support, financial assistance, transportation, driving rehabilitation, home modifications, adaptive recreation, prosthetic resources, and community organizations. The toolkit was designed to accommodate varying …

Using Creative Arts In Occupational Therapy To Address Motor And Nonmotor Symptoms Of Neurodegenerative Disorders, Elizabeth L. Batista, Kristin Domville, Pam Kasyan-Howe

Summer 2026 OTD Capstone Symposium

Neurodegenerative disorders (NDD), including Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, multiple sclerosis, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, significantly impact motor function, cognition, self-esteem, and occupational engagement. Although creative arts interventions have demonstrated psychosocial benefits, there is limited research examining visual arts as an occupational therapy-led modality addressing both motor and nonmotor symptoms through meaningful occupation (Gros et al., 2024; Li et al., 2024; Chancellor et al., 2014).
This capstone project developed and implemented an OT-led creative arts program utilizing painting as the primary intervention for individuals with NDD residing in an assisted living facility and/or attending an adult day center. Guided by MOHO, …

Advocacy For Inclusive Play In South Dallas: Expanding Access For Children In Underserved Areas, Aryanna Fellows, Mary Jan Greer

Summer 2026 OTD Capstone Symposium

This capstone project aimed to advocate for more inclusive and accessible playgrounds for children of all abilities in underserved communities in South Dallas. Guided by the Person-Environment-Occupation-Performance (PEOP) Model, the project evaluated playground accessibility and identified environmental barriers that limit participation for children with disabilities. Methods included a community needs assessment, playground observations using a standardized accessibility assessment tool, surveys, and stakeholder collaboration. Participants included community members, caregivers, organizational stakeholders, and children who utilize local playgrounds. Findings were synthesized to develop evidence-based recommendations and educational resources to support future playground improvements. The expected outcomes included increased awareness of inclusive playground …

Calm, Confident, Capable: An Educational Manual To Support Effective Oral Care For Children With Autism, Jared D. Morgan, Leah I. Stein Duker, Carrie Alvarado, Angela Labrie Blackwell

Summer 2026 OTD Capstone Symposium

Dental health professionals report limited confidence, perceived competence, and preparedness when providing oral health care to autistic children, which can significantly impact patient participation, quality of care, and overall dental experience. Autistic children are more likely to have dental conditions compared to their neurotypical peers. The methods of this project consisted of four phases being development, preview, revision, and dissemination. The purpose of this project was to develop an educational manual that provides dental health professionals with practical knowledge, skills, and abilities to address the needs of autistic children, to ensure effective oral health care. The expected outcomes of this …

Navigating Concussion Recovery: An Educational Module-Based Approach To Strengthening Occupational Therapist Confidence And Effectiveness In Concussion Rehabilitation, Alejandra Abella, Wendy Tremaine

Summer 2026 OTD Capstone Symposium

Background: Mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI), commonly known as concussion, presents with complex physical, cognitive, visual, vestibular, and emotional symptoms that can significantly affect an individual's ability to participate in meaningful daily occupations. Although occupational therapists play an essential role in concussion rehabilitation, many clinicians report that confidence in evaluating and treating this population develops primarily through years of clinical experience rather than structured education. Inconsistent exposure to concussion cases and limited access to current evidence-based resources contribute to variations in clinical confidence and practice.

Purpose: The purpose of this doctoral capstone project was to develop and implement a comprehensive …

Occupational Therapy Education In A Changing Climate, Elizabeth Ballenger, Amy Lyons-Brown, Elizabeth Richardson

Summer 2026 OTD Capstone Symposium

This doctoral capstone explored how occupational therapy can strengthen its response to climate change and planetary health through education, collaboration, and organizational development. In partnership with SOTER and Project PrOTect, the project used literature review, needs assessment, stakeholder engagement, and interdisciplinary learning to develop strategic frameworks, educational resources, and digital dissemination tools. The project emphasized building organizational capacity, expanding occupational therapy’s role in planetary health, and leveraging international collaboration to support sustainable, occupation-centered action.

Supporting Participation Through Sensory Inclusion, Karla Bonilla, Jazminne Orozco Arteaga

Summer 2026 OTD Capstone Symposium

This capstone project focused on promoting sensory-inclusive environments to support play and social participation among autistic children. The project was conducted in partnership with Straight From The Heart, a foster care organization in San Diego County. A community profile, literature review, and needs assessment were completed using caregiver and social worker surveys and semi-structured interviews with community organization professionals to identify environmental barriers, caregiver education needs, and resource priorities. The findings informed the development of sensory-inclusive educational resources and educational workshop. Stakeholder feedback was used to refine the resources and evaluate their perceived relevance and usefulness. The project highlights the …

Beyond The Athlete: An Autoethnographic Exploration Of Occupational Identity, Sofia Paniagua-Bauer, Karen Park

Summer 2026 OTD Capstone Symposium

Adolescent student-athletes experience unique demands as they navigate the expectations of competitive sport alongside academic, social, and developmental responsibilities. These demands may influence mental health, executive functioning, occupational balance, and the development of occupational identity. The purpose of this Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD) capstone project was to explore the development of occupational identity through the lived experience of growing up as a competitive athlete and to examine how participation in sport influenced mental health, self-regulation, executive functioning, and engagement in meaningful occupations. An autoethnographic approach was used to reflect on my personal experiences while completing a capstone experience at …

Supporting Firefighter Families: Addressing Occupational Disruptions Through An Occupation-Centered Approach, Tiana M. Gomez, Jazminne Orozco Arteaga, Karen Park

Summer 2026 OTD Capstone Symposium

Firefighting involves long shifts, unpredictable schedules, sleep disruption, and repeated exposure to occupational stressors that may affect not only firefighters but also their families. This doctoral capstone examined how the occupational demands of firefighting influence family roles, routines, habits, participation, and overall well-being. A convergent mixed-methods study included active or retired firefighters (n = 18) and adult firefighter family members (n = 10), with three participants also completing optional semi-structured interviews. Quantitative survey data were analyzed descriptively, while interview transcripts and open-ended responses were analyzed thematically using the Model of Human Occupation as a guiding framework. Findings demonstrated disruptions in …

Program Development And Implementation Of Adaptive Fishing Program At Western Michigan University Center For Disability Services, Will Harahan

Capstone Projects

Participation in meaningful leisure occupations is an essential component of health, well-being, and quality of life. Unfortunately, individuals with disabilities continue to experience numerous physical, environmental, and social barriers that limit participation in community-based recreational activities. Recreational fishing has emerged as an inclusive outdoor leisure occupation that promotes physical activity, social participation, confidence, and emotional well-being when appropriate adaptations and supports are available. The purpose of this capstone project was to develop, implement, and evaluate an adaptive fishing program for participants enrolled in the Western Michigan University Center for Disability Services (CDS) Skill Building Program. Guided by occupational therapy principles, …

The Vision-Enhanced Occupational Engagement Program, Zakoria Q Fox Mcelroy, Rebecca King

Summer 2026 OTD Capstone Symposium

Background: Low vision is a significant concern among older adults and can affect independence, mobility, safety, social participation, and overall quality of life. As the aging population continues to grow, understanding the challenges experienced by older adults with low vision is increasingly important for improving supportive services and promoting healthy aging.

Purpose: This capstone project examined the experiences and needs of older adults living with low vision, with a focus on how vision loss and environmental factors may influence daily functioning, independence, and participation in meaningful occupations.

Methods: A multi-method needs assessment was completed to identify the needs of residents …

Transitioning Pediatric Clubfoot Care: Early Custom Clubfoot Orthotic Use From Hospital Nicu To Outpatient Care, Antonia L. Dinulescu, Rohini M. Vanodia, Lise Lehoux, Marissa Pazik, Brennan Roper, Lindsay Crawford, Surya N. Mundluru

Summer Research Program Abstracts

No abstract provided.

Implementing The Walking Impairment Questionnaire For Peripheral Artery Disease Screening And Referral, Lisa Doyle

All Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Scholarly Projects

Problem: Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is a leading cause of cardiovascular morbidity, mortality, and lower extremity amputation. At a Level 1 veterans medical center, the absence of a standardized screening and referral process contributed to delayed identification of symptomatic PAD and underutilization of supervised exercise therapy (SET). Between August 2024 and July 2025, only four veterans completed SET despite a large high-risk population, demonstrating a significant gap in evidence-based recommendations and clinical practice.

Aim of the Project: The aim of this project was to improve patient outcomes by standardizing screening for symptomatic PAD using the Walking Impairment Questionnaire (WIQ) to …

Effects Of Cross-Curricular Instruction On Clinical Education Outcomes For Speech-Language Pathology Graduate Students, Michele Dacy, Kimberly Smith

Journal on Empowering Teaching Excellence

Access the online Pressbooks version of this article here.

Cross-curricular instruction is the process of combining information from two or more subjects within a single discipline in order to help students integrate the knowledge and skills they learn from separate courses. The purpose of this study was to examine how cross-curricular instruction impacted speech-language pathology (SLP) graduate students' knowledge, confidence, and clinical skills related to the assessment of patients with co-occurring diagnoses of dementia and dysphagia. Twenty-three SLP master's students completed a questionnaire before and after receiving cross-curricular instruction on how to assess dysphagia in persons with dementia. The questionnaire …

The Effect Of The Lee Silverman Voice Treatment (Lsvt) Big Method Based On Occupation On Older Adult Functional Mobility Balance, Muhammad Luthfi, Kharisma Nur Idalasari

Jurnal Fisioterapi Terapan Indonesia

Balance impairment is one of the major problems commonly experienced by older adults as a result of degenerative processes, leading to an increased risk of falls. Falls may cause fear of recurrent falling, reduced physical activity, loss of physical capability, and may eventually result in disability and psychological consequences such as depression. Structured, occupation-based physical activity has been shown to provide various benefits for older adults, including improving physical function, slowing functional decline associated with degenerative processes, reducing fall risk, and enhancing postural control. This study aimed to analyze the effect of the occupation-based Lee Silverman Voice Treatment (LSVT) BIG …

Objective Biomarker Development For Parameter Optimization In Neuromodulation Using High-Density Emg Temporal And Spatial Features, Shirin Madarshahian, Nikoo Javadpour, Michael Trakhtorchuck, Tatiana Guerrero-David, Kristin Gustafson, James Harrop, Caio Matias, M. J. Mulcahey, Alessandro Naopli, Alex R. Vaccaro, Mijail Serruya

Farber Institute for Neuroscience Faculty Papers

Transcutaneous spinal cord stimulation (tSCS) is a promising neuromodulation approach for motor recovery after spinal cord injury (SCI), yet clinical programming remains largely dependent on subjective parameter selection. This study evaluated high-density surface EMG (HD-sEMG)–derived spatial and temporal features as objective biomarkers for tSCS optimization in three adults with chronic cervical SCI. A 64-channel electrode array recorded stimulation-evoked responses across five cervical stimulation levels, four pulse widths, and graded amplitudes. Features describing activation magnitude, spatial distribution, cluster morphology, and temporal dynamics were extracted from epoch-based activation maps. Of the three enrolled participants, two demonstrated measurable stimulation-evoked responses and contributed to …

The Effect Of Plyometric Training On Leg Muscle Explosive Power In Adolescent Amateur Volleyball Players, Dany Fajar Muhlasin, Fendy Nugroho, Jasmine Kartiko Pertiwi

Jurnal Fisioterapi Terapan Indonesia

Background: Leg muscle explosive power is a crucial physical component in volleyball, particularly in supporting the execution of smashes and blocks. The ability to generate force rapidly and explosively plays a key role in determining an athlete’s jumping performance. One training method proven effective in enhancing leg muscle explosive power is plyometric exercise. Several recent studies have shown that plyometric training can significantly improve vertical jump performance in adolescent athletes. However, there is still limited research specifically examining the effect of plyometric exercise on jumping explosive power in amateur players aged 14–18 years, indicating a research gap that warrants further …

Pengaruh Rehabilitasi Berbantuan Robot Terhadap Pemulihan Fungsional Setelah Total Hip Arthroplasty: Literature Review, Dian Rahayu Wijayanti, Kholida Nabila, Nadzifa Salsabila Haris Putri, Nur Afrina Azra, Septina Olivia, Farid Rahman

Jurnal Fisioterapi Terapan Indonesia

Total Hip Arthroplasty (THA) remains a gold standard for restoring joint function in patients with severe hip osteoarthritis, yet achieving optimal functional recovery post-surgery remains a challenge. Robot-assisted rehabilitation (RAR) has emerged as a novel physiotherapy modality offering structured, repetitive, and sensor-driven training that may enhance recovery trajectories. Objective: This literature review aims to identify and synthesise current evidence on the effectiveness of RAR in improving functional outcomes after THA, focusing on gait performance, muscle strength, balance, and quality of life. Methods: A comprehensive search of PubMed, PEDro, ScienceDirect and Google Scholar was conducted for peer-reviewed articles published between 2015 …

Community-Based Exercise Programs Dalam Mengurangi Fear Of Falling Dan Meningkatkan Quality Of Life Pada Lansia: A Systematic Literature Review, Amirah Hasna Rafifah -, Hanif Maulana, Saffanah

Jurnal Fisioterapi Terapan Indonesia

The global increase in the elderly population presents significant challenges in maintaining independence and quality of life among older adults. One of the most common problems experienced by the elderly is fear of falling, which negatively affects physical activity, balance, and psychological well-being. Community-based exercise programs represent an approach that not only improves physical function but also strengthens social interaction and self-confidence among older adults. This study aims to review community-based exercise programs in reducing fear of falling and improving quality of life among the elderly through a Systematic Literature Review (SLR) using the PRISMA 2020 guidelines. The literature …

Analisis Perbedaan Pengaruh Mc Kenzie Exercise Dan Post Isometric Relaxation Terhadap Penurunan Nyeri Leher Non Spesifik Pada Remaja, Nabila Ayu Meilya Putri, Saifudin Zuhri, Sugiono -

Jurnal Fisioterapi Terapan Indonesia

Background: The use of laptops and computers has become an essential part of daily life, especially among adolescents. However, the habit of maintaining a static posture for prolonged periods while using these devices often leads to excessive strain on the neck and shoulder muscles. To address these problems, interventions such as Mc Kenzie exercise and post isometric relaxation can be applied. Objective: To determine the difference in the effects of Mc Kenzie exercise and post isometric relaxation on reducing nonspecific neck pain in adolescents. Methods: This study employed a two-group pre and post-test design conducted from June to July 2025 …

Patterns Recognized In Ayres Sensory Integration®: A Scoping Review, Marica Botha, Janine Van Der Linde, Zoe Mailloux

Department of Occupational Therapy Faculty Papers

Background/Objectives: Associations between scores on tests of sensory integration functions demonstrated in numerous studies over six decades have contributed to the development of Ayres Sensory Integration® (ASI) theory and practice. Understanding these "patterns" aids therapists in their interpretation of assessment results, ensuring appropriate and effective intervention. This study aimed to describe and discuss published research on identified patterns related to constructs in the Ayres Sensory Integration® approach. Methods: Arksey and O'Malley's framework and the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses Extension for Scoping Reviews Checklist were used. The literature review search was guided by the following …

Occupational Therapy’S Role And Impact In Cancer Prehabilitation: A Scoping Review, Abbey Rancour, Averi Haas, Emily Peckham, Kate Reimer, Kylie Mccaskill

Masters Projects

Background:

Oncology prehabilitation aims to optimize patients’ physical and psychosocial function before cancer treatment, yet the specific contributions of occupational therapy (OT) remain underexplored.

Objective:

This scoping review aims to map and synthesize the existing literature describing the role and reported benefits of OT within oncology prehabilitation programs.

Methodology:

Following Arksey and O’Malley’s (2005) scoping review framework and guided by the PRISMA-ScR checklist, three databases (PubMed, CINAHL, and Web of Science) were searched. Search terms included preoperative exercise, prehabilitation, neoplasms, and cancer. Articles were screened by two independent reviewers, and data were charted and analyzed descriptively and thematically.

Results:

A …

The Impact Of Psychosocial Factors On The Recovery Of Upper Extremity Injuries And Trauma: A Systematic Review, Meghan Hall, Abigail Morgan, Annie Knight, Tanner Fletcher, Allison G. Freeman, Sharon M. Cosper

Journal of Applied Disciplines

This systematic review specifically addresses the question of identifying what psychosocial factors for individuals with upper extremity conditions impact recovery. Twenty two studies were examined with four themes arising: coping limitations, anxiety/stress, depression, and kinesophobia/pain. While extensive research exists to support the presence of an impact of psychosocial factors in upper extremity rehabilitation, further research should be done to expand on these findings to include how psychosocial factors effect rehabilitation of individuals with upper extremity conditions, and application of how these relate to the field of occupational therapy and quality of life.

Refining Of An Online Rotator Cuff Related Pain Screening Tool (Orcs): A Mixed Methods Refinement Study, Andrew J. Smythe, Rhiannon Whale, Melanie Farlie, Peter Malliaras

Internet Journal of Allied Health Sciences and Practice

Purpose: The purpose of this study is to refine an online rotator cuff related shoulder pain screening tool. Method: A mixed methods item-refinement study was used. The original tool was designed through expert opinion and informal literature review. In this study the original tool was refined over three rounds of cognitive interviews totalling 39 participants. The screening tool consisted of two sections, red flag screening followed by rotator cuff related shoulder pain differential diagnostic items. Results from each round of interviews were summarised and informed a nominal group research panel review process to modify items and develop a finalised version …

Proceedings Of The 25th International Symposium On Adapted Physical Activity: Easy Read Edition Of The Symposium Proceedings, Catherine Carty, Niamh Cronin, Ian Coleman Horgan, Stuart Dodd, Jack Dowling, Lydia Murphy, Alex Nicholls, Yann O'Carroll, Robbie O'Neill, Meabh Rohan, Brandon Rumian, Diarmuid O'Connor, Eamonn Carroll, Gerard O'Carroll, Jasmin Richter, Mary Shanahan, Aaron Doherty, Sasha Fitzgerald, Katie Lyons, Katie Mahoney, Afeefah Memon, Conor Moriarty, Adrian O'Sullivan, Dylan Shine, Michelle Enright, Phil Mcsweeney, Sophie Casey

Publications

This book is the Easy Read Proceedings of the 25th International Symposium of Adapted Physical Activity (ISAPA 2025), hosted by Munster Technological University under the Patronage of UNESCO. A small number of printed books are available in MTU libraries, and there is a digital version available online on the South West Open Research Deposit.

Health Management Practices In Chronic Traumatic Brain Injury Rehabilitation: A Scoping Review Protocol, Davina Sharma, Shané J. Gill, Lizbeth Goodman, Amanda Rabinowitz, Louis N. Hunter, Reinhard Schaler, Kirby L. Wycoff

College of Health Professions Faculty Papers

INTRODUCTION: Traumatic brain injury is increasingly recognized as a chronic condition requiring long-term rehabilitation and coordinated care beyond the acute phase. Across Europe, substantial variation exists in healthcare system organization, funding structures, and service delivery models, which may influence access to rehabilitation and long-term functional outcomes for adults with chronic moderate-to-severe traumatic brain injury. The objective of this scoping review protocol is to systematically characterize systemic factors and management practices that shape rehabilitation access, continuity of care, and recovery outcomes across European healthcare systems. This review will map published evidence on health management practices influencing chronic traumatic brain injury rehabilitation …

Independent Living Skills For The Aging Population Of Adults With Disabilities, Sara K. Fetter Otd, Otr, Jennifer L. Martin Otd, Otr, Cht, Clt, Michele L. Mccarroll Phd, Faacvpr, Acsm-Ccep, Ccrp, Lssbb

Developmental Disabilities Network Journal

Adults with intellectual disability (ID) are living longer and increasingly outlive family caregivers. Strengthening independent living and vocational skills has therefore become a critical public-health priority. Occupational therapy (OT) can address this need through person-centered, community-based programming. This paper describes the co-design, delivery, and preliminary outcomes of a short occupation-based curriculum intended to enhance autonomy and work readiness in aging adults with ID. In partnership with a Dallas, Texas nonprofit, the authors conducted a needs assessment and created an 8-session course rooted in the Independent Living Model and the Occupational Competence Model. The curriculum addressed four domains (physical health, financial …

The Readiness Reset: Sleep, Stress, And Pain Management For Tactical Performance, Lauren Fried

Tactical & Occupational Performance Conference

Tactical professionals operate in high-demand environments where sleep disruption, chronic stress, and persistent pain are often normalized, but these factors significantly affect readiness, resilience, and long-term performance. This session explores how sleep, stress, and pain interact at the physiological and neurological levels to influence decision-making, recovery, injury risk, and operational effectiveness in first responders and military personnel.

Participants will gain a deeper understanding of how nervous system regulation, circadian rhythms, and pain perception affect both physical and cognitive performance under stress. Drawing on current research and applied human performance principles, this session highlights practical, field-applicable strategies that tactical professionals and …