Occupational Therapy Commons^™

Informing Modifications To Social Participation And Navigation (Span) For Adolescents With Social Anxiety Incorporating Pet Dogs, Nicole Porter, Gary Bedell, Jason Getzler, Megan Mueller

The Open Journal of Occupational Therapy

Background: Social anxiety is one of the most prevalent mental health challenges of adolescence and profoundly impacts social participation. This study obtained adolescent and parent feedback to inform a future modification of Social Navigation and Participation (SPAN) for use with adolescents with social anxiety incorporating pet dogs.

Methods: The study had two phases: Phase 1 included interviews with adolescents with social anxiety (n = 8) about their social participation experiences, strategies, pet dogs, and thoughts on a proposed intervention to promote social participation; and Phase 2 included on-line survey completed by the adolescents and their parents (n = 14) assessing …

Artificial Intelligence: Analysis And Guidelines For Scholarly Writing, Diane Powers Dirette

The Open Journal of Occupational Therapy

No abstract provided.

Exploring The Occupation Of Education Of Children With Undocumented Immigrant Parents, Denise Perez, Susan Macdermott, Jazminne Orozco Arteaga

Spring 2024 Virtual OTD Capstone Symposium

This research study highlights the detrimental effects of family separations on children's well-being, academic performance, and long-term outcomes. It emphasizes the urgent need for research on the mental health effects of immigration policies on children at risk of parental deportation. A qualitative research study was used to understand the experiences and challenges of adults with undocumented immigrant parents during various stages of schooling. The research utilizes the Kawa model to explore emotional factors and barriers affecting students' occupational engagement in an educational setting. The study aims to identify supports and barriers to school engagement for students with undocumented immigrant parents, …

Capstone Curriculum For University Students With Intellectual Disabilities At Lipscomb University’S Ideal Program, Aubrey J. Barcelo

OTD Capstone Projects

The IDEAL program at Lipscomb University is an inclusive postsecondary education program for young adults with intellectual disabilities. This project was centered around creating a curriculum for the capstone course for fourth year students in the IDEAL program. The capstone course is two semesters of 14-week curriculum aimed at completing an independent/semi-structured needs-based project and experiential learning. The deliverables of the advanced program capstone include a culminating project based on the five components of Person-Centered Planning. The curriculum includes templates and task lists incorporating principles of universal design to facilitate students’ ability to complete the project independently.

Development Of Teacher Training Program, Manual, & Curriculum Guide For Inclusive Dance Studio, From An Occupational Therapy Perspective, Susanna C. Dunn

OTD Capstone Projects

This capstone project was completed in collaboration with MOVE Inclusive Dance, a nonprofit, inclusive dance studio specifically serving individuals of all ages with various disabilities. A needs assessment conducted with the staff at MOVE necessitated a cohesive teacher manual, including teacher training protocol, disability index, safety precautions, sample class activities, curriculum guide, and more. The focus of this capstone was to create and distribute a teacher training manual to dance teachers at MOVE Inclusive Dance. The teacher training manual was created using anonymous pre and post test qualitative and quantitative surveys to assess teacher perceptions regarding feelings of confidence and …

A New Lease On Life: The Occupational Impact Of Adaptive Skiing, Caitlin Tetherow, Amy Lyons-Brown, Amy Griswold

Spring 2024 Virtual OTD Capstone Symposium

This research study focuses on understanding the occupational impact of adaptive skiing on well-being and identity to promote lifelong occupational engagement, representation, and inclusion within current ski culture. A mixed-method research study utilized a 25-question online survey and an optional one-time virtual interview. 50 adaptive skiers and/or snowboarders participating in a winter adaptive program between 18-65 years old completed this study. This study found positive evidence supporting outcomes related to physical, emotional, spiritual, and social well-being and positive identity formation from adaptive skiing.

Occupation-Focused Aquatic Therapy For Stroke Survivors, Amanda Chan, Amy Lyons-Brown

Spring 2024 Virtual OTD Capstone Symposium

This capstone project explores the impact of aquatics-based occupational therapy on stroke survivors' quality of life. A needs assessment was performed at an outpatient aquatic physical therapy clinic, and an aquatic program was developed based on stroke survivors' unmet physical, social, mental, and occupational needs.

Occupational Therapy's Role For Patients With Left Ventricular Assist Devices (Lvads) In Acute Care, Rachel Roberson

MOT Student Capstones

What is occupational therapy's (OT's) role for patients with LVADs in the acute care setting? OT addresses activities of daily living (, endurance. fine motor coordination. preparation for discharge. and evaluations for patients both pre- and post-LVAD implantation. Expectations of OT for this population are not clear to OT practitioners and members of the multidisciplinary LVAD team due to a current gap in literature. The purpose of this project is to develop an evidence-based practice guideline on OT's role for patients with LVADs in the acute care setting. The practice guideline is intended to be used by OTs working with …

Occupational Therapy's Role In Improving Self-Regulation In Classrooms, Holly Huggins, Elizabeth Hunter, Cayce Nance

MOT Student Capstones

Self-regulation is essential to elementary students' academic success. Students' ability to manage their behaviors and develop a sense of self-awareness can positively impact their school engagement and performance. School-based occupational therapy practitioners (OTP) can collaborate with teachers and relevant staff to improve classroom behaviors by implementing self-regulation strategies and modifications through the multi-tiered systems of support (MTSS). An educational presentation was developed and presented to teachers and support staff to increase their understanding and knowledge of applying self-regulation strategies in the classroom. The objectives of the presentation were to educate on the role of occupational therapy (OT) in the school …

The Effects Of Occupation-Based Programming On Occupational Deprivation For Civilly Committed Mental Health Patients, Joshua Clapper

MOT Student Capstones

Patients who are involuntarily committed to the mental health hospital are likely to be exposed to occupational deprivation. Through the induction of occupation-based programming, it is believed that occupational engagement can catalyze recovery and support meaningful participation in daily life, decreasing the prevalence of occupational deprivation. This paper investigates the latest evidence-based practices related to mental health and occupational performance in the inpatient hospital setting. To explore the need to educate clinical staff, who are responsible for programming, a pre-survey was distributed, preceding a presentation. A post-survey was then used to examine the effect the brief educational presentation. They survey …

Impact Of Incorporating A Sleep Hygiene Routine In Children With Developmental Disabilities, Katie Vondersaar

MOT Student Capstones

The paper explores the impact of incorporating a sleep hygiene routine in children with developmental disabilities, aiming to decrease maladaptive behaviors and improve occupational performance. The objectives include identifying maladaptive sleep behaviors, creating a sleep hygiene routine, and completing a literature review. The methodology involves conducting an in-depth literature review, creating a PowerPoint presentation, and utilizing pre- and post-surveys to assess the effectiveness of the educational intervention. The results demonstrate an increase in knowledge of the benefits of implementing a sleep hygiene routine with children with developmental disabilities. The conclusions emphasize the importance of addressing maladaptive sleep behaviors in children …

Positive Communication Strategies And Approaches To Improve Quality Of Care For Those Living With Dementia, Tiffany M. Wright

MOT Student Capstones

The number of people living with dementia (PL WD) is growing exponentially each year. As the number increases, skilled nursing facilities (SNF) will be faced with the challenge of caring for more residents living with dementia. This project investigates the benefits of providing education to healthcare professionals in SNF who care for PL WD to improve the quality of care provided. Historically, pharmacological interventions have been overused in SNF. This project investigates the most effective evidence-based approaches to providing high-quality dementia care to manage behaviors and improve active participation in occupations. To address this topic, a literature review was conducted, …

Occupational Therapy's Role In Addressing Health Disparities In Transgender/ Gender Diverse Youth, Samantha Ryan

MOT Student Capstones

This study investigated the effectiveness of an educational module in improving occupational therapists' knowledge and skills regarding transgender and gender diverse (TGD) youth. The research builds upon existing literature demonstrating positive outcomes when integrating TGD population needs into healthcare education programs. The study employs a pre-test/post-test design to assess participants' understanding of critical areas, including culturally affirming care, legal and ethical considerations, social determinants of health and health disparities, developmental stages related to gender identity, and safety considerations for TGD youth. Participant< ; who completed the module demonstrated significant improvements in several key areas. They displayed a firmer grasp of culturally affirming care principles and how to 4 implement them in practice. Additionally, their understanding of legal and ethical considerations surrounding TGD healthcare provision deepened. The study also revealed increased knowledge of social determinants of health and the impact of TGD identities on access to equitable healthcare. Participants better understood how developmental stages relate to gender identity and its influence on occupational engagement. Finally, they demonstrated increased knowledge of safety considerations and protective factors for TGD youth in occupational therapy settings. Findings reveal measurable improvements in participants' knowledge and ability to deliver affirming occupational therapy for TGD youth. The results suggest that the educational module promotes culturally competent and ethical care. Furthermore, these findings suggest that integrating TOD-specific education into occupational therapy curricula can significantly enhance practitioners' ability to provide affirming and effective care for TGD youth.

Enhancing Occupational Therapy Practitioners' Confidence In Managing Cancer-Related Fatigue Through Occupation And Performance-Based Interventions, Chelsea White

MOT Student Capstones

Cancer-related fatigue has the potential to have a lasting impact on the quality of life, engagement in meaningful occupations, and well-being of oncology patients, which negatively impacts occupational performance and causes an increase in demand for each task an oncology patient managing cancer-related fatigue completes. This capstone project explores the importance of enhancing occupational therapy practitioners' (OTPs) confidence in implementing interventions for cancer-related fatigue using an evidence-based educational program presentation. Based on the literature review, there is a gap in the lack of formal training in oncology and OT academic curriculum, which does not highlight general oncology and cancer-related interventions …

Riding For Recovery: The Impact Of Hippotherapy For Adults With Intellectual Developmental Disabilities, Kesti Suggs

MOT Student Capstones

This capstone project focuses on the underutilization of hippotherapy in occupational therapy (OT) for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). In OT, the horse's movement enhances motor skills, coordination, balance, focus, sensory integration, and functional performance in everyday tasks. This approach simultaneously addresses sensory processing, including the vestibular, proprioceptive, tactile, visual, and auditory systems. The objective of the capstone project is to emphasize the importance of utilizing hippotherapy as an evidence-based therapeutic intervention for adults with IDD. Increasing awareness about integrating hippotherapy into occupational therapy environments, particularly outpatient clinics, is the second objective of this capstone project. The goal …

Benefits Of Universal Sensory Integration Interventions On Behavior In The Traditional Classroom Setting, Kayla Cannon

MOT Student Capstones

Traditional Classroom settings can have a negative impact on the behavior of students. In this project the student researcher compared traditional classroom behavioral strategies to integrated universal sensory intervention programs on school performance and behavior. As occupational therapy practitioners, it is important to provide education to teachers on universal sensory integration interventions to help adapt the classroom environment. These interventions can help students self-regulate in an overstimulating classroom setting. In this project, an in-service was created and presented to five primary grade level teachers and one occupational therapist. They were presented with a pre- and post-survey to be completed before …

Sensory Food Aversions: Therapeutic Feeding Strategies For Children, Laureen Giles

MOT Student Capstones

Raising a child with selective eating habits is a common concern among many parents. By the age of two years old, 50% of children will develop selective eating habits which is a typical stage of development in young childhood. However, if a child is avoiding certain kinds of food due to sensory characteristics than skilled sensory intervention by an occupational therapy practitioner may be warranted. Research shows that children with "sensory" aversions to food between the ages of0-8 years old are more likely to develop long term selective eating patterns. Long term food aversion impacts nutritional intake which may affect …

Theme Park Experiences Of Families With A Child Who Has A Disability Regarding Accessibility And Participation - A Mixed Methods Study, Kylie Kathryn Allan, Karen Park

Spring 2024 Virtual OTD Capstone Symposium

Despite the large number of children with disabilities, there is no research focused on the experience that families with a child who has a disability have while at theme parks. Utilizing surveys and semi-structured interviews, this mixed-methods study explored the experiences of these families, specifically looking at accessibility and participation within the theme park environment. Thirty-seven parents/guardians completed the online survey, while ten individuals also elected to participate in the semi-structured interviews. Results of the study revealed that families are driven to visit theme parks by a want for connectedness. The positives of theme parks include the staff/cast members and …

Exploring The Occupation Of Adaptive Skateboarding, Megan Sandwith, Susan Macdermott, Amy Griswold

Spring 2024 Virtual OTD Capstone Symposium

The occupation of adaptive skateboarding strives to bring inclusivity to skateboarding by means of adaptational strategies that support performance for individuals with varied abilities. The purpose of this capstone project is to explore the occupation of adaptive skateboarding to increase the occupational knowledge and to inform occupational therapy’s role. A mixed methods research study was conducted to explore the question: What are the supports and barriers for participation in adaptive skateboarding? Additional community-based capstone experiences occurred to support the comprehensive findings that consider the role of occupational therapy in promoting participation. Conclusions highlight the meaning of the occupation of adaptive …

An Exploration Of Pediatric Occupational Therapist's Perspectives On Functional And Assistive Mobility, Jennifer Allison, Amy Lyons-Brown

Spring 2024 Virtual OTD Capstone Symposium

Background: Occupational therapists (OTs) are highly skilled in assessing context, environment, and sensory-motor needs which are critical in addressing functional mobility and implementing assistive mobility devices. There is limited research on pediatric OT’s role in functional mobility. This study aims to explore pediatric OT's roles and perceptions of functional mobility and the implementation and use of assistive mobility devices.

Methods: Data was collected via an online survey with an option to participate in a follow-up interview. Descriptive statistics and thematic analysis were used to summarize trends and differences in the data.

Results: Twenty licensed OTs working in a variety of …

Wellness Research & Programming For Bodybuilders, Victoria Castillo, Karen Park, Kersten Laughlin

Spring 2024 Virtual OTD Capstone Symposium

This project explores the occupational impact on bodybuilders and wellness & program development for competitive bodybuilders. Phase one focuses on research to understand the occupational impact on bodybuilders during competition. Phase two, which focuses on program development, highlights the alignment to the objectives as they allow for the development of an educational program intended for bodybuilder coaches to help with health prevention and wellness with their bodybuilder clients.

The Mental Health And Wellness Of Young Adults With Down Syndrome, Annika Soderfelt, Susan Macdermott, Jazminne Orozco Arteaga

Spring 2024 Virtual OTD Capstone Symposium

A poster presentation regarding the mental health and wellness of young adults with Down syndrome. This poster discusses how the mental health and wellness needs of individuals with Down syndrome are or are not currently being met and how resources and programming could be created, particularly by OTs, to better meet their need.

Stroke-Related Mental Health Challenges And Interventions: Strategies For Holistic Recovery, Christopher Walsh, Sam Lee

MOT Student Capstones

This capstone project examines the relationship between post-stroke and mental health. It presents the necessity for a holistic and client-centered approach in the recovery process. Through a mixed-methods approach combining a literature review and empirical research, including surveys of stroke survivors, caregivers, and practitioners, the study shows the prevalence of depression and anxiety post-stroke and the potential benefit of comprehensive mental health support. The findings emphasize the importance of community, spirituality, and proactive education in enhancing mental well-being. The effectiveness of specific interventions for this population was found to be variable, which warrants the use of personalized assessments and intervention …

Marshall Co. Parks Department: Miracle League Of Western Ky, Ragan Harris Winters

OTD Capstone Projects

This doctoral capstone project was completed by Ragan Harris Winters through a partnership with the Miracle League of Western Kentucky at Mike Miller Park to develop a training video for volunteers participating in future baseball seasons. The focus of this project was to develop a brief volunteer training video with beneficial information to prepare volunteers to assist players before, during, and after the games. The training video aimed to educate volunteers of the Miracle League to assist players with varying disabilities and what to expect when volunteering at the CFSB Field of Dreams. The project also included administrative tasks related …

The Sensory Library: Facilitating Opportunities For Success At Bellevue Elementary School, Reagan M. Trussell

OTD Capstone Projects

This doctoral capstone project was completed through a partnership with Lamar County School District near Hattiesburg, Mississippi. This school district has eight elementary school campuses. The purpose of this project is to provide teachers with tools to improve focus, learning, and participation to facilitate opportunities for success in the classroom. A “sensory library” was created at two elementary school campuses to service grades prek-5 to accomplish this goal.. Faculty was also provided deliverables including rules of the sensory library, instructions to access and use the sensory library digital QR checkout system, the basics of sensory processing, sensory guidebook, contents of …

Enhancing Participation In Play Through Staff Training At We Rock The Spectrum, Megan Poppens

OTD Capstone Projects

This doctoral capstone was completed by partnering with We Rock the Spectrum in Franklin, Tennessee. We Rock the Spectrum is an inclusive, sensory-safe play environment for all children. The goal was to provide education, coaching, and practical tips for staff to foster increased inclusion and participation in play. A training manual was created with topics including the impact of play, development, respectful disability language, disability terms and abbreviations, sensory regulation, safety, common misconceptions, pediatric diagnoses, strategies for leading groups, behavior management, and interacting one-on-one with children. The educational resources were used to enhance the staff member’s knowledge, confidence, and skills …

Expanding The Availability Of Adapted Athletics For Youth With Physical Disabilities In Middle Tennessee, Alexandra Hurd

OTD Capstone Projects

This doctoral capstone project was completed in partnership with ABLE Youth in Nashville, TN. ABLE Youth is a non-profit organization that uses sports as the motivation for children who use wheelchairs to reach their goals of independence. The two main goals of this project were as follows: One, to facilitate the Music City Wheelchair Basketball Tournament, the largest adaptive athletics event in Tennessee, and Two, to expand the variety of sports offered at the monthly Super Sports Saturday events. By the end of this capstone experience, volleyball and lacrosse were introduced to the ABLE youth program participants. Ideas for future …

Best Screening: Introducing The Neonatal Assessment Visual European Grid To Nicus In Tennessee, Gabrielle Sledge

OTD Capstone Projects

Blind Early Services Tennessee (BEST) is an early intervention agency that serves children ages 0-5 with visual impairments across Tennessee. BEST serves over 200 children and families across the state offering early intervention (BEST Start), parent empowerment (BEST Advocate), and family support (BEST Together) programming. The purpose of this project was to assist in the implementation of an early identification initiative (BEST Screening) using the Neonatal Assessment Visual European Grid (NAVEG). The NAVEG is a newborn vision screening shown to identify neurological risk for visual impairments. The long-term goal of this program is to promote the screening and early identification …

Childhood Cancer Survivorship: Navigating A New Normal In Middle Tennessee, Karli M. Beaumont

OTD Capstone Projects

Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt in partnership with Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center offers REACH for Cancer Survivorship, a pediatric cancer survivorship clinic. REACH provides a full range of follow-up care designed to meet the physical, emotional, and practical needs of survivors and continuous surveillance of deleterious effects of cancer and its treatments. The purpose of this project was to meet population and agency needs through research of long- and late-term sequela while advocating for occupational therapy’s role in the oncology population through the proactive therapy and prospective surveillance models. The process of creating this project included synthesizing the literature, …

Flip For Function Program Development To Increase Effectiveness Of Current And Future Program Offerings, Brianne Dombrowski

OTD Capstone Projects

This doctoral capstone was completed in partnership with Flip for Function, a therapeutic gymnastic program that combines occupational therapy practices to serve children with developmental differences. The goal of this project was to address gaps in the company from perspectives of the current program and the population it serves, to increase satisfaction of all those involved in Flip for Function. This capstone project focused on creating updated training protocols, developing effective curriculum for class offerings, and furthering marketing content for current and future programming. Resources were created for the onboarding process to ensure each new hire is provided with all …