Occupational Therapy Commons^™

Advocacy-Related Occupations Among People With Disabilities: Assessing Program Outcomes Of An Advocacy Workshop, Audrey Tarbutton, Stefanie Austin, Rachel Bendewald, Hayley Monforte

Community Based

An emerging area of occupational therapy (OT) practice includes program development for persons with disabilities (PWD). These programs are designed to train PWD how to identify issues and advocate for inclusion and accessibility (Umeda et al., 2017). Among the available literature on community-based advocacy programs, results show positive social outcomes including increased self-advocacy knowledge and related behaviors (i.e. Kramer, 2015; Mishna et al., 2011). Regarding the present study, an advocacy training program titled “Community Organizing Advocacy Skills Training” (COAST) was developed using the Midwest Academy Training Manual for the Advocate. The purpose of this study was to pilot a tool …

A Family's Perception Of Occupation-Based Activity Sessions During Their Transition To Permanent Housing, Laura Opie, Lauren Goldstein, Ashton Roth, Ella Savalox

Community Based

This study aimed to evaluate families' perceptions of occupation-based activity sessions during their transition from homelessness to permanent housing. A phenomenological design was selected to identify families' perceptions. Results identified potential benefits of providing occupation-based activity sessions to families in transition and indicated the importance of empowering families to enact their own sense of agency to successfully resolve their transition to permanent housing.

Program Evaluation Of The Impact Of Sensory Room Interventions On Student Readiness In Muskegon County, Emilie Brzak, Olivia Deweerd, Erica Roll

Pediatrics

Aim: This study is a program evaluation of four different sensory rooms in the schools within Muskegon County Northern Service Unit (NSU) to uncover the benefits of sensory interventions on students’ school readiness.

Methods: Grand Valley State University occupational therapy students analyzed data from the school occupational therapists to promote evidence based practice of this program.

Results: Within this program, sensory interventions increased students’ school readiness.

Conclusion: Outcomes indicate that the primary means of increasing students’ school readiness include transitioning to an active activity following sensory interventions and participating in multiple stations. Results are not generalizable to other programs.

Exploring The Connections Between The Presence Of Developmental Trauma And Clinical Reasoning: The Lived Experience Of Pediatric Occupational Therapists, Gwendolyn R. Blake, Briar E. Plantinga, Julie Shafer

Pediatrics

Background: Developmental trauma is a current issue facing the nation. It adversely affects participation in occupations across the lifespan. This paper examines how the clinical reasoning of practicing pediatric occupational therapists changes when treating clients who have experienced developmental trauma.

Methods: A phenomenological approach was applied using multiple cases. Four individuals, who identified as working with clients with developmental trauma, were interviewed using a series of semi-structured and open-ended questions on their experience treating these clients.

Results: Narrative transcripts were reviewed by the authors and organized into themes of performance patterns of the therapist and the context of developmental trauma …

Program Evaluation Of The Impact Of Sensory Room Activities On Student Readiness In Muskegon County, Mary C. Spyhalski

Education

There is a lack of research regarding the effect of sensory room interventions and equipment on student’s school readiness, as well as a lack of research regarding documentation and monitoring the effectiveness of sensory rooms. This is a problem for occupational therapists and teachers implementing sensory interventions that are not backed by research (Stephenson & Carter, 2011). Occupational therapists in Muskegon County Northern Service Unit (NSU) have determined a need to collect data on the impact of sensory room interventions on student readiness for school-day activities within their district. Program evaluations are needed in order to gather data that discusses …

Leadership: Self-Awareness Of Leadership Styles In Occupational Therapy, Katrina Greathouse, Joseph Gritter, Alexandra Imhoff

Work

Successful organizations and professions depend on quality leadership. However, the literature on leadership in the field of occupational therapy, particularly understanding the effects of self-awareness, is limited. The qualitative, hermeneutic, phenomenological methodology combined with grounded theory analysis utilized in this study, examines the perceived effects of self-awareness of leadership styles on occupational therapy leaders’ decision making. Data was collected through semi-structured interviews, four weeks after the completion of two self-awareness assessments. There were a total of four participants. All participants were occupational therapists and currently held a formal leadership title in the Midwest United States. The data was transcribed verbatim …

The Outcomes Of Ot Interventions On The Stress Level Of Parents Experiencing Homelessness And Receiving Services From An Emergency Housing Shelter, Gabriella Ghattas, Sarah Kawsky, Jaime Miller, Danielle Roy

Community Based

This study measures the outcomes of occupational therapy intervention on stress and perceived occupational performance of parents receiving services from an emergency family homeless shelter. Three families each participated in three individualized intervention sessions with occupational therapy students. Researchers utilized a quasi-experimental pretest-posttest design using the Parenting Stress Index Short Form (PSI-SF) and the Canadian Occupational Performance Measure (COPM). Results were analyzed using Friedman and ANOVA tests. Though generalizability is limited, parenting stress appeared to decrease and occupational performance and satisfaction appeared to increase from pre- to post-intervention. These changes were not statistically significant, but were clinically important as defined …

Framework For Implementation Of A Partial Hospitalization Program, Katelynn Krause, Erin Bachler, Stephanie Moon

Mental Health

This abstract will be available for download after an embargo period

Perceived Effects Of Ballet And Movement-Based Interventions For Parkinson’S Disease, Gabrielle Beauchamp, Ian Heinkele, Emily Hoogstra, Mackenzie Schumacher

Adult

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Comparative Analysis Of Perceived Barriers Of Occupations Associated With Dating For People With Physical Disabilities And Able-Bodied Young Adults, Mikaela Furst, Kliricia Loc, Taylor Parks, Shelby Sarnowski

Adult

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The Preferences Of Toileting Habits And Routines In Older Adults, Deanna Orr, Courtney Madary, Bethany Robinson

Older Adult

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Identifying Barriers And Facilitators Within The Occupation Of Voting For People With Disabilities, Amanda Fuller, Jenna Kruis, Victoria Pruess

Community Based

No abstract provided.

Adapted Dance Class And Autism Spectrum Disorder, Lindsay Gutting, Carly O'Brien, Kelsey Moggie

Pediatrics

Background: Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a developmental disability that can cause significant social, communication, and behavioral symptoms. Although a variety of interventions for those with ASD are available, Adapted Dance Class (ADC), also called Dance Movement Therapy (DMT), is a relatively understudied intervention that has the potential support social skill development for this population.

Method: This is a descriptive, exploratory case study in which researchers aimed to discover whether DMT is effective in promoting social and communication skills in adolescents with ASD. We viewed 16 videos of four students who participated in two DMT classes and procedurally documented social …

Early Intervention, Documentation, And Service Delivery: A Review Of Ifsps And Service Notes, Allison N. Krieger, Megan M. Rodgers, Elaine R. Starkey-Ingalls

Pediatrics

This abstract will be available for download after an embargo period

Identifying Themes When Using A Community-Based Participatory Research (Cbpr) Approach With Men Living In Abstinence-Based Recovery Housing, Rachel Morrison, Jade Sharrer, Jason Clements

Mental Health

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Creative Movement Dance Class For Adolescents With Autism Spectrum Disorder, Zoe N. Brennan, Abigail L. Koning, April L. Miller

Pediatrics

Objective: The objective of this phenomenological study was to identify how an occupational therapy developed Creative Movement Dance Class (CMDC) addresses social interaction skills in adolescents with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).

Method: Interviews were conducted with a Certified Occupational Therapist Assistant (COTA), Occupational Therapist (OT), ballet instructor, student intern, teacher, and an aide that were directly involved with the CMDC.

Results: Three themes were identified. The first theme, structure of the class, consisted of eight sub-themes including opportunity to practice, fulfilling sensory needs, the Just Right Challenge, classroom support, classroom expectations, interprofessional collaboration, themes, and format of the class. The …

Female Veterans: Satisfying Patterns Of Daily Activities As Defined By The Life Balance Model, Chloe Hillpot, Kerry A. Macdonald, Laura A. Rohr

Mental Health

This phenomenological case study explored the occupational needs and life satisfaction of one female veteran upon reintegration into civilian life. One female veteran, with 23 years of military service, participated in a semi-structured telephone interview. Results demonstrated that military service negatively impacted the participant’s social interactions, physical and mental wellbeing, and ability to cope with stressors, indicating military service posed difficulties for the participant to engage in meaningful occupations upon reintegration. Recommendations included development of occupation-based interventions using the Person Environment and Occupation framework, and further research to identify appropriate services to facilitate successful reintegration into society for female veterans.

Identifying Themes When Using A Community-Based Participatory Research (Cbpr) Approach With Men Living In Abstinence-Based Recovery Housing, Rachel Morrison, Jade Sharrer, Jason Clements

Community Based

This abstract will be available for download after an embargo period

The Effect Of Occupational Therapy Play-Based Interventions On Cooperative Behavior In Elementary School Aged Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder, Shaunna Kelder, Jennifer E. Langill, Carol A. Reiss, Nicole F. Socia

Pediatrics

The purpose of this study was to explore the perceptions of occupational therapy practitioners regarding the effect play-based interventions have on cooperative behaviors in elementary school aged children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). While occupational therapy practitioners use a variety of interventions involving play to enhance skills related to social, self-regulation and communication, the concept of how play affects cooperative behavior, specifically in children with ASD, has not been readily identified. This qualitative research project utilized an anonymous survey to collect the perceptions of occupational therapists (OT) and certified occupational therapy assistants (COTA). The intent of the survey was to …

The Use Of Sensory Spaces In Schools, Syeda S. Mahmood, Erin E. Mallekoote, Ashley Rister

Pediatrics

Objective: This mixed methods continuing line of inquiry was conducted in order to identify how occupational therapists (OTs) report that sensory spaces are being used in Michigan public school settings. This includes who uses the spaces, what purpose the space serves, and the training that individuals utilizing the spaces have received.

Methods: A link to a survey, which was adapted from Abbot, Wills, and Hanert (2015), was posted on the Michigan Alliance of School Physical and Occupational Therapists’ (MASPOT) listServ and Michigan Occupational Therapy Association’s (MiOTA) facebook page in June of 2016 in order to recruit participations. The …

Dance & Down Syndrome: Parental Perceptions On Dance And Movement-Based Interventions, Ami A. Parke, Cara J. Murray, Rebecca D. Need, Kathryn Edick

Pediatrics

This qualitative phenomenological study was designed to identify parent or guardian perceptions on the benefits of dance and movement-based interventions for their child who has Down syndrome. Individuals with Down syndrome face limitations in social-emotional skills, physical skills, and life skills, and research on the benefits of dance and movement-based interventions demonstrated some evidence of improvements in these skills. Researchers utilized a parent focus group in order to gain insight into how dance impacts their children with Down syndrome. A number of themes emerged from the data analysis process including improved movement, psychological well-being, and routine and retention. The theme …

Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis: A Systematic Review Of Occupational Therapy Interventions, Meredith L. Aja, Katie L. Cole, Trenton S. Warning

Pediatrics

Background: The purpose of this systematic review is to describe the current role of occupational therapy (OT) in the treatment of Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA). JIA is an umbrella term that encompasses six subtypes of the disease. JIA is one of the most common childhood chronic diseases and can be accompanied by symptoms such as pain, stiffness, and loss of function, as well as psychosocial impacts. JIA participants generally receive pharmacological treatment, but less commonly receive therapeutic interventions to help reduce symptoms. Individualized treatment plans are necessary for clients with JIA due to the diverse nature of the disease. …

Conquering The Kitchen: Cooking And Older Adult Male Caregivers, Miranda Jenkins, George Kukich

Older Adult

Older adult men who have taken on an unfamiliar role as a caregiver find themselves at a loss with how to conduct meal preparation and cooking (Russell, 2007). The purpose of this study was to explore the effects of a specialized cooking class on the perceptions of older adult male caregivers. Method: This mixed method, retrospective study analyzed surveys from subjects who attended a cooking class designed specifically for male caregivers. Participants were 60 years of age or older and were required to be living in one of nine participating local counties. Results: The participants reported that the course expanded …

A Retrospective Study Of Handwriting Skills Of Kindergarten Students, Danielle Benter, Dawn Fields, Catherine Nichols

Pediatrics

OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to guide teachers and occupational therapist in recognizing handwriting needs in order to provide appropriate early intervention support for handwriting.

METHOD: 218 kindergarten students in a public school district were screened for handwriting ability using the Handwriting Without Tears and the Public School’s copy screeners. Students were assessed three times during the 2014 to 2015 school year on letter memory, line placement, letter orientation, copy legibility, and copy placement skills.

RESULTS: The results indicated that winter scores were a better predictor of spring scores. Significant effects in four out of five variables were …

A Needs Assessment Of Occupation Based Services In A West Michigan Homeless Shelter From A Staff Perspective, Stephanie A. Ballard, Katie M. Deveneau, April D. Hemlock

Community Based

In this qualitative study, student researchers conducted one-on-one semi-structured interviews of individuals employed by a homeless shelter in West Michigan, posing questions related to the perceived need of occupation-based services for shelter recipients, and the efficacy of current services. Narratives were interpreted using thematic analysis, yielding themes related to the barriers faced by the shelter population, life skills of the shelter population, and services in place to provide for the needs of the shelter recipients. Authors concluded that shelter staff perceived a need for occupation-based services to engage the shelter population in meaningful occupations, particularly relating to leisure, education and …

The Benefits Of Aquatic Therapy For Older Adults, Erin Erickson

Honors Projects

No abstract provided.

A Community Needs Assessment For A Camp Activity Center For People With Disabilities, Jackie L. Main, Melissa A. Klenk, Samantha N. Vandriel

Community Based

This paper describes a needs assessment of a camp for individuals with disabilities. Utilizing a combination of focus groups and interviews, the needs assessment explores the benefits of additional space and services of an activity center and sensory room, the desire for additional equipment, the value of occupational therapy services, and the potential benefit these additions may have for the surrounding populations within the community. The participants include administrative staff, counselors, campers, and other key informants who maintain knowledge of the topics pertaining to the camp. The results revealed three major themes including marketing, staffing, and indoor space. It was …

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: A Retrospective Analysis Of Conservative Treatments, Sarah E. Johnson, Britta L. Carlson, Maureen G. Meyers

Hand and Upper Extremity

Objective: The purpose of this study was to identify which conservative occupational therapy (OT) treatment(s) were most effective in reducing pain in patients diagnosed with carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS).

Design: A retrospective study of 222 de-identified treatment cases of patients seen from January 1st, 2004 to December 31st, 2013 were examined. Paired sample t-tests determined statistical significance between eight initial and final outcome measures. Binary logistic regressions determined statistical significance of clinically effective treatments that reduced pain at rest and pain with activity.

Setting: The 222 cases were from 31 outpatient rehabilitation clinics offering occupational therapy services.

Subjects: Participants were …

A Systematic Review: The Effectiveness Of Occupational Therapy Interventions For Individuals With Multiple Sclerosis, Katherine Adkins, Alexis Moxley, Catherine Petkus

Systematic Reviews

Background: Individuals with multiple sclerosis experience a range of symptoms including blurred vision, poor coordination, tremors, numbness, fatigue, concentration and memory problems, and/or blindness. Given the range of symptoms and resulting limitations, individuals with MS will experience occupational challenges, which lead to referrals for occupational therapy. The goal of occupational therapy is to enable individuals to engage in activities that one wants to or needs to participate in. Objective: To investigate the effectiveness of occupational therapy interventions that are currently being provided to individuals with multiple sclerosis. Methods: Researchers searched four scholarly databases, including CINAHL, PubMed, PsychINFO, and OT Search. …

Comparing Levels Of Supervision Across Occupational Therapy Intake And Discharge For Individuals Receiving Post-Acute Traumatic Brain Injury Rehabilitation, Joseph Glenn Grubaugh

Community Based

In response to limited outcome-based research, this study aimed to determine how levels of supervision across OT intake and discharge for individuals receiving post-acute traumatic brain injury (TBI) rehabilitation compare to various participant demographic factors and OT treatment protocols. A retrospective pre-post research design and convenience sampling was utilized for observing quantitative data obtained from Origami Brain Injury Rehabilitation Center located in Mason, MI. Forty-two participants met inclusion criteria for various demographic factors and OT treatment protocols (explanatory variables). SPSS statistical analyses were performed using Fisher’s exact test for comparing levels of supervision (ordinal response variable) to dichotomous explanatory variables. …