Medicine and Health Sciences Commons^™

Application Of Occupational Therapy Task-Oriented For Chronic Post-Stroke Rehabilitation: A Case Study, Gia Nghi Vu

UNLV Theses, Dissertations, Professional Papers, and Capstones

Stroke remains the leading cause of long-term disability, with persistent upper extremity (UE) impairment limiting engagement in daily tasks, reducing quality of life and contributing to learned non-use in the chronic stage among stroke survivors. The Occupational Therapy Task Oriented (OTTO) approach is proposed to optimize occupational performance through the use of meaningful, functional and highly individualized tasks that enable clients to fulfill their valued roles and participate in desired daily activities. The purpose of this capstone project was to advance clinical skills by applying the OTTO approach to examine its effect on occupational performance and UE motor function in …

Inclusiveness With Sensory Maps; Enhancing Engagement In A Children's Museum, Victoria E. Davila

UNLV Theses, Dissertations, Professional Papers, and Capstones

Sensory processing challenges can affect a child’s ability to engage in play, especially when participating in community activities. When a child feels overwhelmed by sensory features in an environment, such as noise or bright lights in a community space, they may experience sensory overload. Caregivers often observe this behavior but may not have access to resources to help their child navigate these challenges. This capstone project aimed to implement a program development initiative at the Discovery Children’s Museum focused on developing sensory-inclusive resources for caregivers visiting the museum with a child. The role of occupational therapy in this project is …

Expanding Neurological Interventions: An Aquatic-Based Occupational Therapy Toolkit For Inpatient Rehabilitation, Kate Jannelle Rye

UNLV Theses, Dissertations, Professional Papers, and Capstones

Objective: The objective of this project was to develop an evidence-informed aquatic therapy toolkit aimed at improving occupational therapy practitioners’ self-efficacy in planning aquatic interventions for individuals with neurological injuries.

Methods: This project utilized a quality improvement approach, involving the development of a toolkit, an in-service educational training, and a hands-on skills session. Practitioner self-efficacy was measured using a modified General Self-Efficacy Scale, which was administered before and after the educational training and hands-on skills session. Guided reflections and feedback from occupational therapy practitioners were also utilized to evaluate self-efficacy and the applicability of the toolkit.

Outcomes: Participation in the …

Enhancing Accessibility And Inclusivity In The Performing Arts With Occupational Therapy Frameworks, Carmela Clarice Tabora Clave

UNLV Theses, Dissertations, Professional Papers, and Capstones

In live theater performances, there are numerous sensory demands, including unpredictable noises, lighting, crowd movement, vocalization, and transitions in and out of the theater. Teachers, support staff, and chaperones who attend these performances may face barriers in supporting their children in unfamiliar environments, and community volunteers who have never assisted during these shows may not know how to support children who need it if they have not had prior exposure to children with diverse needs. This capstone project provides families, teachers, and volunteers with pre-visit resource guides with occupational therapy perspectives on sensory processing for student matinees and sensory-inclusive performances …

Developing A Health Education Program For Adults Reentering The Community After Incarceration, Tiffany Ayame Kinugawa-Larsen

UNLV Theses, Dissertations, Professional Papers, and Capstones

Justice-impacted adults often experience challenges in confidently managing their health due to limited autonomy, disrupted health routines, and limited access to health education during incarceration. Studies have shown that incarcerated adults have a higher likelihood of developing chronic health issues, yet have limited access to resources that promote health and well-being after release from incarceration. Given that health management falls within the scope of occupational therapy (OT), the profession is positioned to promote health and well-being by applying OT principles that emphasize individualized, holistic care tailored to a justice-impacted population during community reintegration. A 5-week health education program grounded in …

Nurturing Beginnings, Madison K. Hanson

Occupational Therapy Capstone Presentations

Early intervention for postpartum mothers and their infants plays a critical role in supporting long-term health outcomes for both members of the dyad. Maternal well-being is closely linked to a child’s development, and challenges such as stress, physical changes, and undiagnosed postpartum depression can disrupt bonding, parenting, and early skill development. Because the transition to motherhood is complex, consistent support and interventions are essential for both mom and baby. Strengthening public education and improving developmental screening practices can help ensure mothers and infants are receiving needed support early in life. Nurturing Beginnings worked to bridge the service gaps between healthcare …

Rewiring Recovery: Integrating Assistive Technology Into Occupational Therapy For Neurological Rehabilitation, Megan M. Cotton

Occupational Therapy Capstone Presentations

Although assistive technology (AT) is widely recognized as an effective intervention to improve functional outcomes and independence in individuals with neurological conditions, it remains underutilized in clinical practice due to barriers such as limited training, time constraints, and lack of accessible resources (Langan et al., 2018; Pearce et al., 2024; Sarsak et al., 2023). This doctoral capstone project examined the integration of AT into occupational therapy practice within an inpatient rehabilitation setting. Guided by the Canadian Model of Occupational Performance and Engagement (CMOP-E) and the Rehabilitative Frame of Reference, the project aimed to bridge the gap between evidence-based AT interventions …

Reframing Intimacy: An Occupation-Based Approach To Pelvic Floor & Sexual Health, Emma Stone

Occupational Therapy Capstone Presentations

Pelvic floor dysfunction is highly prevalent among women in the United States, and sexual health is often underaddressed in healthcare. This capstone project aimed to define the role of occupational therapists (OTs) in pelvic floor therapy and promote integration of sexual health into practice. Completed in an outpatient pelvic floor setting, the project included clinical skill development, program development, and advocacy. Interventions involved continuing education, creation of educational handouts, implementation of home exercise programs, and tracking outcomes using the PFDI-20. Additional initiatives included staff education and student training on OT’s role in pelvic health. All 12 tracked clients progressed toward …

More Than Mealtimes: The Role Of Occupational Therapy In Pediatric Feeding For Children With Developmental Disabilities, Anika J. Peters

Occupational Therapy Capstone Presentations

Feeding is a foundational occupation essential for growth, development, and family participation. However, children with developmental disabilities often experience significant feeding challenges that impact nutrition and participation in mealtime routines. This capstone project examines the role of occupational therapy in pediatric feeding assessment and intervention within an outpatient setting. Using a descriptive mixed-methods approach, outcomes were evaluated for pediatric clients (N=18) and occupational therapists (N=15) through goal attainment tracking, the Canadian Occupational Performance Measure (COPM), clinician needs assessment data, and resource feedback. Results demonstrated improvements in food acceptance, texture tolerance, oral-motor skills, and engagement in mealtime participation. COPM scores reflected …

Transitioning Home: The Role Of Occupational Therapy In Aging In Place, Syrena Meyer

Occupational Therapy Capstone Presentations

This capstone project explored the role of occupational therapy in supporting older adults transitioning home from hospitalization to successfully age in place. With the growing population of adults over age 65 and a strong preference to remain in their homes, there is an increasing need for interventions that promote safety, independence, and quality of life. This project focused on developing advanced clinical skills in inpatient and transitional care settings while implementing evidence-based interventions and educational resources. The Person-Environment-Occupation Model was used throughout the 14-week experience to identify strategies to enhance occupational performance in patients. Key activities included patient care, use …

Increasing Safe Driving Among Adults With Neurological Impairments In A Rural Setting, Melissa V. Burt

Occupational Therapy Capstone Presentations

This capstone project examined challenges related to safe driving for adults living in rural communities with neurological impairments. Guided by the Person-Environment-Occupation Model and Toglia's Dynamic Interactional Approach, the project focused on increasing awareness, accessibility, and utilization of occupational therapy (OT) led assessments, community-based services, and educational outreach on driving safety. Clinical skill development was demonstrated through standardized and informal assessments and evidence-based interventions with adults with neurological conditions. Program implementation included driving risk assessments, one-on-one CarFit sessions, the creation of educational pamphlets, and educational presentations to increase community and provider awareness of OT's role in driving rehabilitation. CarFit surveys …

Occupational Therapy Program Development In Unhoused Communities, Abbigayle Jackson, Emma Pacheco, Mariko Turley, Jennifer Wickham, Tina M. Deangelis, Edd, Ms, Otr/L, Faota

Doctorate of Occupational Therapy Program Capstone Presentations

Objectives

- Outline the Modified Delphi process and its purpose for manual development

- Describe foundational elements of occupational therapy (OT) program development for unhoused populations

- Illustrate a program's community and societal impact

The Efficacy Of An Educational Program On The Benefits Of Aquatic Therapy: An Occupational Therapy Perspective, Matile Kaplan, Kathryn Burke Otd, Otr/L

Occupational Therapy Doctorate Capstones

Aquatic therapy has been a therapeutic modality since 2400 B.C and offers multisystem physiological effects including cardiovascular, musculoskeletal, immune, gastrointestinal, and more. The aquatic environment offers buoyancy, hydrostatic pressure, resistance, and drag force to ease engagement and recovery. Individuals have a higher rate of participation in aquatic therapy compared to on-land therapy, although referral rates are low due to the existing perceptions and insufficient awareness of the benefits.

Understanding Occupational Therapy Referral Patterns And Knowledge Gaps Among United States Medical Providers, Zachery Edwards, Shannon Strate Otd, Ms Otr/L

Occupational Therapy Doctorate Capstones

Medical providers in the United States (US) have limited education and understanding of occupational therapy’s (OTs) full scope of practice (SOP), contributing to reduced access to OT services and potential negative consequences for client outcomes, interprofessional collaboration, and the profession’s viability (Rouch et al., 2022; Vij, 2023). This study aimed to examine US medical providers perspectives on OT utilization and identify areas of desired knowledge. Qualitative data was attained via a national survey administered to medical providers with analysis focused on responses to question three (Q3): “Why don't you refer clients to OT?” (n=424) and question six (Q6): “If you …

Utilization And Impacts Of Pediatric Caregiver Programming On Therapeutic Engagement And Wellbeing: A Pilot Program, Venisa Rodriguez, Tania Rose Otd, Otr/L

Occupational Therapy Doctorate Capstones

Purpose: The proposed doctoral capstone aims to measure the utilization and impacts of pediatric caregiver programming on therapeutic engagement and wellbeing. A scoping literature review and needs assessment of pediatric caregivers of children receiving OT services found that limited access to quality, caregiver-specific resources and programming impact the wellbeing of caregivers, their ability to care for their child, and their confidence and ability to engage in the therapeutic process. The literature points to a want and need for caregiver-specific programming and the use of a family-centered care approach to improve caregiver and child outcomes.

Design: This study will utilize a …

Creating Supportive Environments For Children To Bloom: A Trauma-Informed Occupational Therapy Approach, Morgan Benson

Occupational Therapy Capstone Presentations

A significant number of children receiving occupational therapy services have histories of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), including neglect, abuse, frequent changes in caregiving environments, and exposure to chronic stressors. These experiences can strongly affect sensory processing, emotional regulation, behavior, and participation in meaningful daily occupations. These challenges are often made more complex by limited caregiver education, inconsistent access to trauma-informed resources, and differences in therapist confidence when addressing trauma in pediatric practice. Occupational therapy practitioners are well-positioned to support these needs through holistic, occupation-based, and client-centered care that considers sensory, emotional, environmental, and developmental factors. The purpose of this capstone …

Enhancing Child Development In A Daycare Setting Using An Ot Perspective, Autumn F. Glaser

Occupational Therapy Capstone Presentations

The purpose of this capstone project was to implement a program within a daycare setting using an occupational therapy perspective. The project explored the impact of staff education combined with guided, hands-on activities in supporting child development. Seven developmental areas served as a focus for two weeks each during the capstone experience. Main components of the program included presentations and debrief sessions for staff, hands-on, developmentally supportive activities with the children, handouts for caregivers, and the creation of a resource with activity ideas for daycare staff to utilize after program implementation. Pre and post-test surveys were used to assess the …

Blooming Beginnings: An Occupational Therapy Approach To Helping Families Grow, Grace L. Mcconnell

Occupational Therapy Capstone Presentations

The transition to parenthood is accompanied by monumental changes in health, wellness, roles, and routines. These changes impact an individual's ability to participate in their daily activities and particularly for mothers, this experience impacts her entire life. Through this transition, parents must not only participate in their own occupations but also learn how to advocate and care for their child(ren). However, families are provided very limited educational resources to prepare them for this transition. Occupational therapy can bridge the gap in family preparedness by utilizing evidence-based education to address physical, psychological, and social wellbeing. Occupational therapy education can advise parents …

Empowering Children Through Self-Regulation: A Multi-Setting Occupational Therapy Initiative, Aarika Denae De Jong

Occupational Therapy Capstone Presentations

Self-regulation skills are essential for well-being during childhood and are associated with academic performance and positive psychosocial outcomes. Children with developmental disabilities such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD) often experience sensory differences that impact occupational performance and self-regulation. Rural populations face additional barriers to accessing early childhood opportunities and occupational therapy services. This doctoral capstone project aimed to support the development of self-regulation skills among children in both clinical and community settings. Through partnership with a rural public library, a Sensory Storytime Program was implemented using inclusive design principles to promote regulation skills. Additional resources, including a Sensory Regulation Kit …

Occupational Therapy For Caregiver Support And General Clinical Practice In Rural Settings, Madysen M. Handel

Occupational Therapy Capstone Presentations

This capstone project aimed to develop advanced clinical practice skills and implement a structured caregiver intervention program within a rural outpatient pediatric occupational therapy setting at Hegg Health Center in Rock Valley, Iowa. Guided by the Model of Human Occupation, the Occupational Adaptation model, and the cognitive behavioral frame of reference, the project emphasized caregiver participation, routine-based strategy use, and support for sensory-emotional regulation across daily environments. Caregiver stress and perceptions of strategy use were assessed using the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10) and a caregiver follow-up survey developed to evaluate confidence supporting regulation strategies and participation within home routines. Results …

The Scoop On Feeding Therapy: Where Occupational Therapy Fits In, Katherine G. Epperson

Occupational Therapy Doctorate Capstone Posters

This capstone project was completed at Horn and Associates in Rehabilitation in Lexington, Ky. The primary ACOTE areas of focus included education, advocacy, and clinical practice skills. The goals of this project were to identify and fill gaps in knowledge related to the role of occupational therapy in feeding therapy in the pediatric population, support interdisciplinary collaboration, and create educational handouts to advocate and highlight the importance of occupational therapy in the realm of feeding.

A needs assessment was completed prior to completion of this capstone project in order to identify a need. For this needs assessment, I completed a …

Applying Evidence-Based Practice To Guide Occupational Therapy In The Nicu And Outpatient-Based Early Intervention Settings, Brooke A. Wilson

Occupational Therapy Capstone Presentations

Infants admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) are at increased risk for feeding difficulties, developmental delays, and sensory processing challenges due to prematurity and complex medical needs. These effects often persist into the first years of a child’s life, and many receive early intervention or outpatient therapies. Occupational therapy plays a critical role in addressing these concerns while supporting caregivers in building knowledge and confidence. The purpose of this capstone project was to develop in-depth clinical skills in the NICU and outpatient early intervention settings, educate caregivers, and complete continuing education courses related to neonatal and pediatric therapeutic …

Addressing The Motor And Non-Motor Symptoms Of Parkinson’S Disease Through Integration Of Clinical Skills And Community Educational Resources, Alison C. Lee

Occupational Therapy Capstone Presentations

Individuals with Parkinson’s Disease (PD) face many challenges to their daily life including various motor and non-motor symptoms that affects their participation in meaningful occupations. Non-motor symptoms like decreased social participation, sleep disturbances, fatigue, and decline in cognition often go unnoticed and undertreated. Limited resources are available to clinicians and individuals with PD regarding tangible ways to address these concerns. Occupational therapy (OT) has a unique role in addressing both motor and non-motor symptoms through evidence-based resources, education, and general awareness. This project bridged this gap in care regarding non-motor symptoms of PD through the creation of easily accessible handouts, …

Enhancing Well-Being In Long Term Care: A Lifestyle-Redesign-Based Program For Older Adults, Rachel L. Hajek

Occupational Therapy Capstone Presentations

This project focused on the development and implementation of a Lifestyle Redesign^®-based program to improve well-being and quality of life among older adults living in a skilled nursing facility. The program emphasized engagement in meaningful, client-centered activities tailored to the residents’ interests and values. Ten participants from two long-term care neighborhoods completed a five-week program consisting of ten wellness sessions. Sessions were designed to promote emotional, physical, and social engagement while incorporating participants’ personal values, including spiritual elements. Outcomes were measured using pre- and post-assessments of perceived well-being and engagement. Results indicated improvements in overall well-being, increased social …

Assessing The Feasibility Of Integrating Occupational Therapy Services Within A Pediatric Primary Care Setting For Children 0-3 Years Old., Amanda L. Wilbert, Cristina Dumitrescu, Kim Karr

Post Professional Occupational Therapy Doctoral (PPOTD) Student Capstone Projects

The objective of this capstone project was to assess the feasibility of implementing occupational therapy (OT) services within a pediatric primary care office using a manualized service delivery approach. Occupational therapy is inherently grounded in parent coaching and education, positioning the profession to play a critical role in supporting families and promoting early identification of developmental risk. This project aimed to address a documented gap in the inclusion of OT within pediatric primary care by exploring how OT services can support parenting skills and monitor children identified as at risk for developmental, behavioral, or psychosocial concerns. The project was conducted …

The Necessity Of Adaptive Sports: Addressing Financial Barriers To Participation In Children With Spinal Cord Injuries, Megan G. Wells

Student Capstone Papers

 Children with spinal cord injuries (SCIs) experience numerous barriers to participation in adaptive sports despite the well-established physical, psychosocial, and developmental benefits of physical activity. Financial constraints, limited awareness of funding opportunities, and the complexity of grant application processes often prevent families from accessing adaptive sports programs and specialized equipment. The purpose of this doctoral capstone project was to develop a comprehensive financial guidebook for families of children with SCIs to address financial barriers to adaptive sports participation, promote physical activity, and improve overall quality of life. Guided by the Person-Environment-Occupation-Performance (PEOP) model, this doctoral capstone project addressed financial accessibility …

Sensory-Friendly Environments In Schools, Jocelyn A. Ashworth, Rebecca King

Spring 2026 OTD Capstone Symposium

Sensory-Friendly Environments in Schools focuses on strengthening sensory-motor lab use and building educator understanding to support students with sensory processing difficulties. Implemented at Sparta Elementary School within Belton ISD, with the goal to enhance students' regulation, attention, and participation in daily school activities by equipping educators with practical, sustainable sensory strategies.

Occupational Therapy For Maternal Pelvic Floor And Mental Health: A Holistic Approach To Recovery, Diana S. Theodore

Student Capstone Papers

Maternal pelvic floor dysfunction (PFD) is highly prevalent yet often underrecognized in occupational therapy practice, despite its significant impact on mental health, daily function, and quality of life. Many postpartum women experience symptoms such as urinary incontinence, pain with intimacy, and pelvic organ prolapse, which are frequently normalized or left untreated. Occupational therapy practitioners often have limited training in addressing the complex relationship between pelvic floor function and maternal mental health, contributing to gaps in care. The purpose of this capstone project was to develop a comprehensive handbook for occupational therapy students and practitioners integrating pelvic floor function and maternal …

Advancing Athletic Recovery: The Role Of Occupational Therapy In Sports Medicine, Hannah E. Oakerson, Rebecca King, Rebecca Caudrillier

Spring 2026 OTD Capstone Symposium

This capstone project aimed to assess whether an occupation-based educational program could improve recovery engagement, self-efficacy, and quality of life in athletes following sports-related injuries. An Athlete Recovery Guidebook was designed, implemented, and evaluated within an outpatient sports medicine setting. The guidebook provided structured education on recovery routines, symptom management, and health habits, while supporting integration into daily life. Findings from pre- and post-surveys and qualitative feedback suggest improvements in recovery knowledge, confidence, body awareness, and overall quality of life following program implementation.

Development Of A Mental Health Program For Work Rehabilitation, Vannida M. Nguyen, Cassandra Nelson

Spring 2026 OTD Capstone Symposium

Work-related injuries often result in decreased work performance and extended recovery time. This can lead to mental health challenges and a risk of re-injury. Typical work rehabilitation focuses on physical recovery while overlooking psychosocial factors. This capstone project developed a wellness program to support emotional wellness and improve return-to-work (RTW) outcomes. The program incorporated educational content, coping strategies, and interventions targeting emotional wellness for injured workers receiving physical therapy. Occupational therapy has the ability to address both physical and psychosocial factors and increase interdisciplinary efforts during work rehabilitation. Improved confidence reflected in the self-reported RTW-SE scores suggests that occupational therapy …