Occupational Therapy Commons^™

The Role Of Occupational Therapy With People Living With Epilepsy: A Scoping Review, Paige Peeples, Steven M. Gerardi

Summer 2021 Virtual OTD Capstone Symposium

Objective: The aim of this scoping review is to systematically examine and organize current literature describing the current roles of occupational therapists with people living with epilepsy, including assessments, interventions, and other behaviors. This will help identify current gaps in the literature to facilitate future research.

Methods: Using scoping review methodology, an electronic database search was conducted using the search terms “occupational therapy and epilepsy”. Data was extracted and charted independently by the investigator by way of finding themes and codes through analysis.

Results: The total number of studies included was 12. The primary methodology noted were case studies. …

An Occupational Therapy Practice Guide For Sport-Related Concussion In Student Athletes, Jenny Park, Steven M. Gerardi, Mary Ann Smith

Summer 2021 Virtual OTD Capstone Symposium

Sport-related concussion (SRC) is a prevalent injury that affects millions of youth and young adults every year (McKeithan et al., 2019). The sequelae associated with an SRC can interfere with a student athletes’ ability to participate in school, return to play, and perform daily tasks (DeMatteo et al., 2018). Common practice in concussion management highlights the significance of getting individuals back to engaging in all areas of their lives; and this is consistent with the emphasis on participation by occupational therapy (OT) practitioners (DeMatteo et al., 2018). Despite the beneficial role that OT may offer, not only is there limited …

Occupational Therapy’S Role In Reducing Barriers For Team-Based Sports Participation For Adolescents, Dennis Nguyen, Karen Park, Becki Cohill, Susan Macdermott

Summer 2021 Virtual OTD Capstone Symposium

Participating in team-based sports has numerous benefits that includes not only increased physical fitness, but also cognitive abilities and academic performance. With the many benefits of participating in team sports can provide, it will be significant to understand adolescents' specific barriers and assist in reducing the barriers for successful participation. The purpose of the capstone project was to identify and understand adolescent barriers to bridge the gap between conventional rehabilitation and team sports participation. Multiple barriers and motivators were identified including financial management, time management, and physical/athletic skill. Facing these determinants may possibly support in increasing team sports participation and …

Transitional Vocational Program For Persons With Low Vision And Other Visual Impairments, Andria Lubben, Karen Park, Susan Macdermott, Becki Cohill

Summer 2021 Virtual OTD Capstone Symposium

Background: Low Vision is a life-altering visual disability (CDC, 2015). OTs work with individuals with low vision and work in the workplace and education, however, there is no research on OTs working with individuals with low vision in work or post educational settings (Butler, 2016). Vocational and educational needs are often not being met for individuals with low vision (Barbieri et al., 2019).

Problem: OTs have a limited role in adolescent transition to the workplace and higher education in individuals with low vision and other visual impairments.

Purpose: To understand transitional programs that support vocational and educational development of individuals …

Enhancing Discharge Preparation For Adults With Substance Use Disorder Within A Residential Treatment Facility, Piper Virva, Susan Macdermott, Becki Cohill, Karen Park

Summer 2021 Virtual OTD Capstone Symposium

The community reintegration process is a vital aspect of the recovery journey, which requires sufficient planning and preparation prior to discharge from treatment (Read & Stoffel, 2019). Individuals enrolled in a residential treatment program for SUD indicated that higher levels of assistance and preparation during the transition to community living and involvement in comprehensive discharge planning would better prepare them for community reintegration (Manuel et al., 2017). Historically, the role of occupational therapy (OT) with this population has been to facilitate the resumption of meaningful roles, identify supportive habits and routines, and address executive functioning deficits related to SUD (Champagne …

Exploring The Occupation Of Rest, Emilee Eckhart, Susan Macdermott, Becki Cohill, Karen Park

Summer 2021 Virtual OTD Capstone Symposium

Rest is an occupation that encompasses many aspects of the human experience. It is an occupation that looks different for everyone. The field of occupational therapy has always emphasized the importance and relevance of the occupation of rest. After a review of literature on the topic, there was little information about how rest and restful occupations are addressed in occupational therapy practice. This capstone project explored the occupation of rest and how it was understood and addressed in occupational therapy practice. This was a qualitative research design, where a survey was produced for occupational therapy practitioners (OTP). The survey questions …

Exploring Sensory Processing & Inclusivity Within A Fitness Gym Environment, Deveshma Maharaj, Karen Park, Becki Cohill, Susan Macdermott

Summer 2021 Virtual OTD Capstone Symposium

An individual’s sensory processing involves the reception, modulation, integration, and organization of sensory stimuli, as well as behavioral responses to sensory input (Dunn, 2001). Adults with sensory processing challenges may come across troubles with completing routines and tasks for work, social participation, and leisure (STAR Institute for SPD, n.d.). Since most individuals with these sensory processing challenges have struggled with symptoms continuously, they are likely to encounter secondary effects such as depression, underachievement, and social isolation (STAR Institute for SPD, n.d.). Adults with sensory processing deficits may experience difficulties with establishing their role in society, maintaining social support systems, and …

Application Of The Kinesio® Taping Method For A Child With Hypotonia: A Pilot Case Study, Margaret M. Griffin, Christina Ann A. Mcguff, Nicole C. Willse, Mackenzie D. Twaddell, Julia Shin

Student Journal of Occupational Therapy

Background: This study explored the application of the Kinesio® Taping (KT®) method in conjunction with traditional occupational therapy (OT) intervention for a child with hypotonia. Specifically, differences in functional hand outcomes (manual dexterity and grasp pattern) were examined between the sessions with and without the application of the KT® method.

Methods: A 9-year and 5-month-old male subject, at the time of enrollment, diagnosed with hypotonia, global developmental delay, and autism spectrum disorder participated in the study. A single-subject alternating treatment design was employed. A total of 14 OT sessions were conducted across baseline (n=3), alternating treatment (n=8), and replication (n=3) …

Exploring Occupational Dysfunction And Occupational Performance For Youth In Homeless Shelters, Akio Ross

Student Capstone Papers

The capstone project aims to explore and identify the role of occupational therapist in homeless youth shelters, to improve life skills necessary for independent living, and transition into the community of youths that occupy youth shelters. The proposed research project will fill the gap between occupational therapist, and youth shelters, by revealing barriers, while simultaneously developing and identifying a role for occupational therapist in homeless youth shelters.

An Investigation Of Occupational Therapy Utilizing Sensory Modulation To Manage Co-Morbid Chronic Pain And Substance Use In Order To Promote Occupational Performance And Recovery, Claire Ruth

Student Capstone Papers

Background: Those with chronic pain have worse drug and alcohol treatment outcomes and higher rates of relapse compared to those without pain or with reduced pain (Ilgen et al., 2020).

Methods: A descriptive study was employed with the aim of determining what are the sensory processing pattens of those with co-morbid chronic pain and in recovery for substance use. All participants completed the Adolescent and Adult Sensory Profile, the Brief Pain Inventory, and the Personal Recovery Outcome Measure (PROM).

Results: From the preliminary findings, individuals with co-morbid chronic pain and substance use may have atypical sensory processing …

Life Skill Development And Its Impact On Perceived Stress, Employment And Education Pursuits: A Study Of Young Adults With A History Of Homelessness And Trauma, Josephine Beker, Tina M. Deangelis

Student Journal of Occupational Therapy

An occupational therapy educational training group for young adults in permanent supported housing was developed, implemented and evaluated with pre-post outcome measures including Goal Attainment Scaling (GAS) and the Perceived Stress Scale-10 (PSS-10). The study explored stress levels and employment-related goals of individuals who have aged out of the foster care system and may also have had a history of chronic homelessness and trauma. Results demonstrated a trend towards significance in perceived stress 9Z=1.689, p=0.91) with 7 of 8 participants surpassing the expected outcome according to GAS. Limitations included a small convenience sample (n=8), inconsistent attendance and use of self-report …

Effects Of Social Technology On Older Adults In A Residential Living Facility, Katherine Bennett, Mia L. Gonzalez, Sydney L. Harper, Madison N. Logan, Kaeli M. Jeffers, Alexandrea C. Springer, Jeanne Sowers

Student Journal of Occupational Therapy

Personal connection and social interaction are vital components of health throughout the lifespan. Loneliness and social isolation among the older adult population impacts both physical and mental health negatively. Analysis of published research demonstrates the importance of considering the use of different social technology platforms to foster opportunities for social support among family and friends. Researchers noted an increased relevance of the need for social technology in residential living facilities with the emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic and social distancing. The study aims to investigate the impact of social technology, via Sherish℠ Connect on older adults’ reported levels of loneliness …

Qualitative Exploration Of Mealtime Routines And Parental Stress Of Children With Pediatric Feeding Disorders: Analysis Of Occupational Performance, Andrea Patino

Student Capstone Papers

Pediatric feeding disorders (PFD) affect approximately 25-35% of children with typical development, 40-80% of children with developmental disabilities, and 90% of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Feeding disorders affect families by disrupting mealtime routines, changing family dynamics, and increasing parental stress. Occupational therapy (OT) focuses on client-centered care that facilitates independence in meaningful occupations, including feeding and eating. OTs also play an essential role in assisting, training, and educating parents on effective mealtime strategies that can be implemented and carried over into the home environment. Few research studies show how parents manage behaviors and stress during mealtime routines, and …

Analysis Of Occupational Therapy’S Role To Promote Healthy Sleep Participation To Support Caregivers Of Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder, Sophia N. Roman

Student Capstone Papers

Children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) face sleep disturbances. Healthy sleep habits are essential for children with ASD and their caregivers to properly engage in their everyday lives. Occupational therapists are trained to evaluate clients in areas that contribute to sleep dysfunction and to focus on promoting optimal sleep performance. There is limited research on caregivers’ perceptions of their child’s sleep disturbances, these disturbances’ influence on occupational engagement, and whether occupational therapists have collaborated with caregivers of children with ASD to treat this area of occupation. Collecting data from caregivers by using a questionnaire can provide occupational therapy (OT) practitioners …

An Occupation-Based Program To Promote Mental Health Of At-Risk Youth In An After-Care Setting, Alexa Smith

Student Capstone Papers

The disproportionate tendency for young adults from disadvantaged backgrounds to shift from schools to the juvenile justice system is referred to as the “school to prison pipeline”. Treating and preventing mental health difficulties is within the scope of occupational therapy, and while the school system assists in mental health treatment, there is a lack of mental health supporting services in after-care settings. The purpose of the program development project is to increase the supportive mental health services provided to at-risk youth in the after-care setting. The project ran mental health group sessions using Cole’s Seven Step Model with participant groups …

The Relationship Between Alternative Fieldwork Approaches And Student Competence And Confidence For Occupational Therapy In Behavioral Health, Kathryn Beckstein, Elizabeth Britton, Codee Colby, Kathleen Melei, Emily Rehmel, Sara Best

Student Journal of Occupational Therapy

Purpose: The purpose of this case-series study was to assess the relationship between three instructional methods that fall within the parameters of the revised Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education fieldwork objective C.1.9 and perceived student competence and confidence in providing therapy services in a behavioral health setting.

Methods: The study included a convenience sample of (n=49) graduate students enrolled in an entry-level Doctor of Occupational Therapy program and a Doctor of Physical Therapy program in the Midwest. The participants attended a presentation on bipolar disorder and were randomly assigned to engage in one of three instructional methods: …

Occupational Therapist Role In Post-Secondary Education Transition Program: Emphasis On Self-Advocacy Skills, Nikki K. Voorhees

Student Capstone Papers

It is becoming increasingly important for individuals to obtain post-secondary education in order to gain employment (Alverson et al., 2019; Chandroo et al., 2018). This increased importance to attend post-secondary education makes it imperative for students who are graduating from high school to be fully prepared for the transition to post-secondary education (Rothman et al., 2008). The transition from high school to post-secondary education is difficult for any individual. However, it is even more difficult for students with learning differences, as they tend to have problems in the areas of social skills, communication, problem solving, self-advocacy, and executive functioning (Alverson …

An Ipa Analysis Examining Transportation, Community Engagement, And Healthcare Access Of Elderly Adults In A Rural Border Community, Madison Rowlinson, Angela Blackwell, Karen Aranha

Spring 2021 Virtual OTD Capstone Symposium

Introduction: There is a lack of understanding about the accessibility needs of elderly borderland residents, and the barriers that they face when they try to maintain their health and well-being.

Objectives: To analyze transportation and community engagement in a rural community on the US-Mexico border. To analyze the findings of transportation and community engagement in a rural community on the US-Mexico border.

Methodology: A triangulated study using the Place Standard Assessment, Semi-Structured Interviews, and a walking survey with the theoretical framework of the Person, Occupation, Environment, Performance (N=3). Data analysis consisted of comparing means generated by the PSA on 14 …

Interdisciplinary Practice For Occupational Therapy And Low Vision Rehabilitation, Priscilla Gim, Karen Park, Becki Cohill, Susan Macdermott

Spring 2021 Virtual OTD Capstone Symposium

The purpose of this capstone project was to advocate occupational therapy in low vision rehabilitation for improved access to low vision rehabilitation (LVR) for the adult population. However, due to COVID-19 pandemic, this capstone project shifted to a research study assessing limiting factors for occupational therapy collaboration with low vision services and exploring eye physician’s perception on low vision occupational therapy.

A mixed-methods survey was conducted to explore 54 eye physicians including Doctor of Medicine (MD) specialized in ophthalmology and Doctor of Optometry (OD)’s perception on the role of low vision occupational therapy, benefit of low vision occupational therapy, current …

Exploring Integration Of Occupational Therapy Services For The Refugee Population, Khalil Mrabe, Pam Kasyan-Howe, Kristin Domville, Stanley Paul, Tom Kowalski, Derek Corley

Spring 2021 Virtual OTD Capstone Symposium

As a result of many global conflicts and environmental instabilities, the refugee population is increasing in numbers throughout the world including North America. Refugees experience a distinct susceptibility to systemic barriers (Matlin, Depoux, Flahault, Saso, & Schütte 2018). As such, refugees suffer from a higher rate of physical and mental stress as a result of extreme suffering from the accumulative effects of physical and mental trauma, geological and cultural displacement (Hameed, S., Sadiq, A., & Din, A. U., 2019; Jamil et al., 2007). This unique and often neglected segment of the population can benefit from occupational therapy services to meet …

Understanding Successful Aging For Well-Elderly Adults Through Leisure And Social Participation, May Rose Lazarte, Karen Park, Becki Cohill, Susan Macdermott

Spring 2021 Virtual OTD Capstone Symposium

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported by the year 2050, about 26% of the population would be 60 years of age or older (CDC, 2020). As Baby Boomers (individuals born between 1946-1964) enter the Third Age, defined by lifestyle choice, consumption, and preservation of youthfulness, more and more individuals are given the opportunity to age in place and participate in new/refined lifestyles (Hostetler, 2011). Although, research has proven older adults, who are now in their later years in life, are prone to experience social isolation, loneliness, depression, anxiety, and social stressors (Valtorta et al., 2018). Older adults …

The Benefits Of An Educational Resource For Swim Instructors To Promote Inclusive Swimming, Ailien Nguyenly, Susan Macdermott, Karen Park, Becki Cohill

Spring 2021 Virtual OTD Capstone Symposium

The purpose of this capstone project was to develop a training program for swim instructors to better interact with individuals with disabilities before, during, and after swim lessons. However, due to the current pandemic, an online educational resource was created instead.

The educational resource utilized an occupational therapy approach to meet swim instructors' identified needs to work with individuals with disabilities. The e-book was intended to lay a foundation of basic knowledge of conditions, resources, tools, adaptations and provide support to shape swim lessons around individual needs.

A qualitative research study was conducted to assess the effectiveness and usefulness of …

Burnout In Occupational Therapy Practice: An Investigation Of Contributing Factors Among Practitioners In Different Practice Settings Within The United States, Zsienne Antonette Isidro, Susan Macdermott, Becki Cohill, Karen Park

Spring 2021 Virtual OTD Capstone Symposium

Burnout is a syndrome that can impact physical, mental, and emotional wellbeing (Cooper & Campbell Quick, 2017). It occurs in job-specific contexts and can materialize in any work setting where stress is unmanaged (Cooper & Campbell Quick, 2017). Burnout stems from an imbalance of work demands and resource availability, and it often results in poor personal and professional outcomes (Donovan et al., 2010; Glicken & Robinson, 2013; Maslach, 1998). Occupational therapists (OTs) are not exempt from experiencing burnout. The work of OTs can be psychologically and emotionally demanding, which places them at a higher risk for depersonalization and burnout (Lopez …

Exploring The Role Of Occupational Therapy In Long-Term Telerehabilitation For Stroke Survivors, Alexandra N. Murguido, Pam Kasyan-Howe, Kristin Domville

Spring 2021 Virtual OTD Capstone Symposium

Strokes are the second leading cause of death and leading cause of long-term disability worldwide and incidence is on the rise (Katan & Luft, 2018). In the past 25 years, the burden of disability from neurological disorders, including strokes, have increased exponentially due to the increase in the aging population and decrease in mortality rates (Raghavan, 2019). Out of the 795,000 new victims of stroke annually, 26% remain disabled during activities of daily living (ADLs) and 50% experience a reduction in mobility due to hemiparesis (Katan & Luft, 2018). Although stroke survivors do receive rehabilitation services after the onset of …

Exploring Occupational Therapy’S Role In Equine-Assisted Therapy With Veterans, Collin Cooper, Becki Cohill, Susan Macdermott, Karen Park

Spring 2021 Virtual OTD Capstone Symposium

Equine-assisted therapy (EAT) is a treatment that incorporates activities with a horse and the equine environment to reach rehabilitative goals specific to the client's needs and the medical professional's standards of practice (Meregillano, 2004; Path Int, 2021). There are many methods of using a horse in treatment. Therapeutic riding is a component of EAT, as well as horsemanship, groundwork, horse care, and stable management. Hippotherapy is a healthcare professional (OT, PT, SLP) treatment tool that occupational therapists (OT) use the horse's movement to facilitate change (Meregillano, 2004). Some research has demonstrated veterans who work with horses show improvement in quality …

Exploring The Benefits Of Adaptive Baseball From The Parent Perspective / Exploring The Impact Of The Covid-19 Pandemic On Athletes, Kristen Yee, Karen Park, Becki Cohill, Susan Macdermott

Spring 2021 Virtual OTD Capstone Symposium

Sports can be an integral part of a child and adolescent’s life; however, those with disabilities, regardless of severity, are less likely to participate in organized sports compared to their peers. Adaptive sports accommodate the varying ability levels of individuals through environmental modifications or the use of specialized equipment.

The purpose of this project was to understand the benefits of participation in adaptive baseball from the parent perspective to increase awareness of the sport and better inform the role occupational therapy has in helping individuals engage in meaningful occupations that promote health and well-being, social participation, and a sense of …

The Role Of Occupational Therapy In Supporting The Enculturation And Acculturation Process For Egyptian Coptic Orthodox Immigrants, Sherry A. Manoly, Susan Macdermott, Karen Park, Becki Cohill

Spring 2021 Virtual OTD Capstone Symposium

Objectives: The Egyptian Coptic Orthodox population in America has grown exponentially due to religious intolerance in Egypt. Many Copts move to the U.S. and experience feelings of helplessness because of the stark difference in American culture compared to the culture they had left behind. Occupational therapy (OT) is a profession that can impact the Copts due to the focus on gaining independence in life through participation in meaningful occupations. This qualitative study sought to answer the research question, “what is the current state of occupational engagement for recently immigrated Coptic Christian immigrants, and how can occupational therapy support immigrant populations?” …

Culture And Occupational Therapy, Kaitlyn Domingo, Becki Cohill, Susan Macdermott, Karen Park

Spring 2021 Virtual OTD Capstone Symposium

The purpose of this capstone project was to develop a cultural intelligence program for occupational therapy practitioners (OTP[s]). However, due to the results of the project’s research component, this capstone shifted to addressing a potential need for a global shift in the occupational therapy (OT) process and diversifying the content and dissemination of cultural training courses.

A mixed-methods survey was conducted to assess 45 OTPs’ confidence levels with delivering culturally intelligent care, their means of overcoming cultural barriers in clinical practice, and to collect anecdotes on the process of becoming a culturally intelligent practitioner.

Four primary research themes are developed …

Incorporating Reminiscence Therapy Into Traditional Ot Practice For Adults With Adrd Residing In A Snf/Ltc, Natasha Menard, Becki Cohill, Susan Macdermott, Karen Park

Spring 2021 Virtual OTD Capstone Symposium

As the population diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias (ADRD) raises from 5.3 to 12.7 million over the next three decades, this calls for a demand for treatments to address this population (Alzheimer’s Association, 2021; Atchinson & Dirette, 2017). While traditional practice often focuses on symptom management, the inclusion of functional activities alone does not fully address the negative side effects of ADRD (Kok et al., 2013; Lepore et al., 2017; Mayo Clinic, 2019). Both occupational therapy (OT) and reminiscence therapy have been shown to be effective methods to treat the ADRD population separately, but there is limited evidence …

Occupational Approaches For Reducing Food Insecurity In College Students, Jessica Sabbara, Becki Cohill, Susan Macdermott, Karen Park

Spring 2021 Virtual OTD Capstone Symposium

Food insecurity is a prevalent problem in the United States (Feeding America, 2021). The COVID-19 pandemic has exasperated existing health disparities including access to the food resources necessary for a healthy lifestyle (Feeding America, 2021). The impact of food insecurity on health, well-being, and quality of life is well-documented Schmelzer & Leto, 2018; Seligman et al., 2010 Emerging adults and college students may experience food insecurity due to limited access to nutrition assistance programming and low food literacy (El Zein, et al., 2019; Owens, et al, 2020). Occupational therapy (OT) practitioners can serve an important role in reducing food insecurity …