Occupational Therapy Commons^™

Social Participation Approach In Brain Injury Survivors, Lexie Graham, Cassandra Nelson

Fall 2024 OTD Capstone Symposium

This program will consist of educating brain injury survivors and their peers on social participation following a brain injury. With the cognitive and physical deficits that come with brain injuries, a decrease in socialization occurs due to those barriers faced. With the lack of resources aimed towards brain injuries and social participation this program is essential to ensuring everyone has access to an education platform. Providing brain injury survivors and their peers with evidence-based information and tips for socializing is vital to helping families, friends, significant others, and peers keep strong relationships and increase their quality of life.

An Ot Web-Based Stress Management Program For Acute Care Therapists, Jessica N. Alanis, Cassandra Nelson Otd

Fall 2024 OTD Capstone Symposium

Hospital burnout has become one of the many problems among many healthcare professions. Occupational therapists and physical therapists encounter many situations that are out of their control and struggle with how to handle their emotions in a fast-paced setting. The purpose of this capstone was to educate acute care therapists on developing good stress management habits using various grounding, sensory, and mindfulness techniques to help them get through the work day. By helping acute care therapists develop good stress management habits, therapists can experience improvement in the way they carry out their duties, improve their productivity, and improve the way …

Increasing Leisure Activity Participation And The Quality Of Life Of People With Dementia And Their Caregivers, Karla Vela, Rebecca King, Keegan Mckay

Fall 2024 OTD Capstone Symposium

The problems associated with the progression of dementia, such as increased stress, and a decrease in engagement in leisure activities and social participation have a negative impact on the patients’ and caregivers’ quality of life. In addition, there is limited research on the long-term impact of occupational therapy leisure activity programs on patients with dementia and their caregivers’ quality of life. A leisure activity program was created for people with dementia and their caregivers to improve their leisure activity engagement and quality of life. Overall, the participant’s and caregivers benefitted from this program and had positive opinions based on the …

A Program To Support Kangaroo Care Of Preterm Infants In The Nicu For The Caregivers, Katherine Blake Carby Cooksey, Mary Jan Greer, Debbie Johnson

Fall 2024 OTD Capstone Symposium

This presentation is about an educational program developed to help educate the caregivers about kangaroo care while their baby is in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). This program is to emphasis in the occupations of social interaction and family involvement with kangaroo care. Caregivers/parents are able to learn about the what kangaroo care is, the different type methods of kangaroo care, the benefits of kangaroo care, the importance of kangaroo care while being in the NICU. This program development for the caregivers is able to help with their journaling experience while in the NICU and adjusting kangaroo care into …

Mild Traumatic Brain Injury In Justice-Involved Individuals And Executive Function Consequences On Transition And Reintegration Into The Community, Alaina L. Randerson

Student Capstone Papers

The United States has the highest documented incarceration rate in the world (Carson, 2022), with an increasing number of justice-involved individuals (JII) potentially affected by mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI). Despite the high prevalence of mTBIs in the general population, limited research exists on the prevalence and impact of mTBIs in JII. Preliminary evidence suggests that the prevalence of mTBIs in incarcerated individuals is 50 times higher than in the general public (Siegler et al., 2017). This study aimed to explore the lived experiences of JII with mTBI, focusing on the origin of mTBIs, executive dysfunction, and the occupational barriers …

Exploring The Relationship Between Hand Grip Strength And Handwriting Proficiency, Chloe Fields, Rebecca King

Fall 2024 OTD Capstone Symposium

Handwriting remains essential for a child's academic performance despite the rise of technology in classrooms, but overuse of digital tools can hinder the development of essential hand muscles and fine motor skills. This capstone project explores the relationship between handwriting proficiency, hand grip strength, and the impact of excessive technology use on young students.

Mild Traumatic Brain Injuries In Justice-Involved Individuals And Executive Function Consequences On Transition And Reentry Into The Community ​, Alaina L. Randerson, Michael Sutcliffe, Cassandra Nelson, Ariana Gonzalez

Fall 2024 OTD Capstone Symposium

The United States has the highest documented incarceration rate in the world (Carson, 2022), with an increasing number of justice-involved individuals (JII) potentially affected by mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI). Despite the high prevalence of mTBIs in the general population, limited research exists on the prevalence and impact of mTBIs in JII. Preliminary evidence suggests that the prevalence of mTBIs in incarcerated individuals is 50 times higher than in the general public (Siegler et al., 2017). This study aimed to explore the lived experiences of JII with mTBI, focusing on the origin of mTBIs, executive dysfunction, and the occupational barriers …

Agot: Agricultural Guide For Occupational Therapy Practitioners, Kara Smallegan, Meghan Skidmore Otd, Otr, Cns, Angela Labrie Blackwell Phd, Otr

Fall 2024 OTD Capstone Symposium

As agriculture is a hazardous occupation, this project discusses agricultural workers with health conditions/disabilities, experiencing disruption to occupational performance and participation, increasing risk of secondary injuries, and impacting overall well-being and how occupational therapy practitioners can improve these factors through the development of a guidebook. The guide covers population insights, risk factors, assessment guide, conditions, and resources to aid occupational practitioners when assisting the agricultural worker population.

Preoperative Education For Total Hip And Knee Replacements, Molly Whitehead, Cassandra Nelson, Gwen Morris

Fall 2024 OTD Capstone Symposium

An educational program has been developed to implement with total hip or knee replacement patients prior to their procedure to improve function with ADLs, lessen the need for caregiver assistance, and to increase patient satisfaction.

Navigating Life After The Nicu: A Developmental Guide For Preterm And High-Risk Infants And Toddlers, Reagan Lachaussee, Mary Jan Greer Phd, Otr, Theresa Mensi

Fall 2024 OTD Capstone Symposium

Premature and medically fragile infants are at high risk for developmental delays and benefit from ongoing support. Parents often feel overwhelmed and uncertain about how to support their child’s development at home. This project addressed gaps in caregiver education and support by developing the PEARLS Program (Promoting Early Achievements, Resilience, and Life Skills), a practical resource tailored to the needs of families and healthcare providers.

A needs assessment and provider feedback guided the program’s development, identifying challenges such as information overload, confusion around corrected age, and feeding difficulties. The PEARLS Program empowers families with digestible, actionable resources, including …

Older Adult's Fall Prevention Program, Myles Butler, Rebecca King

Fall 2024 OTD Capstone Symposium

The decline in bodily functions with aging increases older adults' vulnerability to falls, which is a leading cause of death within this population. The poster presents an educational based fall prevention program focused on safety awareness and risk management for older adults. In conclusion, implementing a fall prevention program leads to increased awareness regarding risk factors that are detrimental to the safety and well-being of the older adult community

Ergonomics & Environmental Changes Within The Beauty Industry To Decrease Musculoskeletal Conditions, Jessika Eiland, Rebecca King

Fall 2024 OTD Capstone Symposium

Ergonomics, adaptation, and environmental changes within the beauty industry to decrease musculoskeletal conditions in the upper extremities. Musculoskeletal disorders and their effects may limit a hairdressers ability to complete their job duties. For individuals within the beauty industry, health management can become an important factor.

Making An Easy Return To School After An Extended Illness Diagnosis, Ashlyn Eads, Mary Jan Greer, Julie Boykin

Fall 2024 OTD Capstone Symposium

This poster provides information on the capstone program created at a pediatric site. This program addresses how play-based therapy can help children with an extended illness transition back into the school setting. Both the children and their caregivers need support before, during, and after the return to school. The goals of this program were to educate caregivers on how to advocate for their child for positive outcomes, provide caregivers with resources to promote successful transition to school, provide play-based strategies for children addressing handwriting, social Skills, upper body strength, education, fine Motor Skills, and provide the site and caregivers with …

Development Of A Virtual Reality Program To Promote Occupational Participation And Decreased Psychosocial Deficits In Persons With A Brain Injury, Nicole Arneson, Rebecca King

Fall 2024 OTD Capstone Symposium

Stroke is one of the leading causes of disabilities including problems with balance, muscle weakness, abnormal muscle tone, mental health, as well as deficits in visual function and sensory function The purpose of this capstone is to develop a virtual reality program that will be used with the stroke population to address ADLs, IADLs, and quality of life.

Occupational Therapy Role In Aiding Health Management For Caregivers Of Children With Neurological Conditions, Peyton Mcgee, Mary Jan Greer, Caitlin Boyd

Fall 2024 OTD Capstone Symposium

Neurological disorders are identified as a dysfunction on any part of the nervous system that cause disability (Kumar et al., 2022). In order to enhance the outcome of children with neurological conditions, there should be an emphasis on the role and well-being of their caregivers. Common symptoms of neurological disorders among children include delayed developmental milestones, seizures and epilepsy, regression of skills, abnormal movements and behaviors, headaches, sensory processing issues, and communication difficulties. Adjusting to a new normal can be overwhelming for caregivers, especially when children transition out of rehab. The aim of the proposed capstone project is to aid …

Improving Adls, Iadls, And Qol In Breast Cancer Survivors, Tincy Samuel, Rebecca King

Fall 2024 OTD Capstone Symposium

Breast cancer and its treatment can significantly impact breast cancer survivor’s ability to perform Activities of Daily Living (ADLs), Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADLs), and Quality of Life (QoL). Physical activity programs have been found to positively impact various aspects of quality of life in breast cancer patients, including physical condition, state of mind, and selfesteem. However, there is a gap in the OT practice and the literature regarding how to improve independence in ADLs, IADLs, and overall quality of life in breast cancer survivors. A program was created to improve Activities of Daily Living (ADLs), Instrumental Activities of …

Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Health Management Within The Adult Population: A Road Toward Occupational Engagement, Valeria Martinez, Cassandra Nelson, Otd, Otr/L, Mba, Cns, Ceas I

Fall 2024 OTD Capstone Symposium

Approximately 37 million Americans have been diagnosed with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) (CDC, 2023). As a result, DM is ranked as the eighth leading cause of mortality in the United States, yet the management of symptoms and overall condition is frequently neglected by a significant portion of the American population (CDC, 2023). A contributing factor to this issue is the insufficient access to resources for underserved communities, particularly among the Hispanic population with low health literacy. This capstone project focuses on health management and educating the adult population with a goal of enhancing activities of daily living (ADL) and …

The Doing, Being, Becoming, And Belonging Of Intergenerational Collective Occupations, Gladys Garcia, Jazminne Orozco-Arteaga

Fall 2024 OTD Capstone Symposium

Background: Older adults have been globally recognized as a vulnerable population. Literature has indicated that intergenerational engagement can decrease social isolation for older adults, but there is a gap in understanding intergenerational co-occupational engagement and how these engagements can improve quality of life and fulfillment of self-identity. The purpose of this qualitative research study was to generate knowledge of how relationships and occupations performed with individuals from a younger generation impacted sense of well-being. Through the lens of Doing, Being, Becoming and Belonging (Wilcock, 2006), the study sought to increase understanding of this lived experience to promote intergenerational practice within …

Understanding The Lived Experience Of Outdoor Camping, Marisa Snyder, Jazminne Orozco Arteaga

Fall 2024 OTD Capstone Symposium

Camping is an outdoor recreational activity that allows individuals to connect with nature, spend quality time with loved ones, and engage in physical activity. For aging adults, camping can be a way to improve their quality of life, fulfill their roles as grandparents and parents, and maintain independence. However, there was a lack of awareness and education about the physical, mental, and social benefits of outdoor camping, limiting the recreational exposure and experiences for the aging population. Additionally, campgrounds are typically in unpredictable environments that may require additional resources for aging adults to confidently engage in an enjoyable camping experience. …

Supporting Leisure Exploration And Participation For Older Adults To Improve Occupational Performance, Jack Fong, Karen Park, Jazminne Orozco Arteaga

Fall 2024 OTD Capstone Symposium

This capstone project aimed to develop a program advocating for leisure exploration and participation among older adults to address functional decline and improve quality of life. The program utilized a comprehensive needs assessment, including interviews, interest screening, and observations, to identify participants' preferences and barriers to participation. Through education and advocacy, the program encouraged engagement in meaningful leisure activities tailored to individual interests and abilities. Participants reported satisfaction with their leisure participation, emphasizing the importance of socialization and maintaining physical and cognitive health. Modifications, such as activity adjustments, enabled participation despite health-related challenges. This project highlights the value of responsive …

Enhancing Dignity Amongst Persons With Dementia Through Occupational Engagement, Habeeba Ahmed, Amy Lyons-Brown Ms, Otd, Otr/L

Fall 2024 OTD Capstone Symposium

Dementia is a cognitive impairment that impacts an individual's memory, judgement, safety awareness, and emotions which can interfere with their activities of daily living. As the condition progresses, the person living with dementia (PLWD) may require a care partner to help them complete their daily tasks. Having a care partner and being a care partner can be challenging for both, the PLWD and their care partner, as there begins to be a shift in their independence. The PLWD must rely on their care partner to help them throughout their day, leading to a decrease in independence and occupational engagement. When …

Conceptualization, Measurement, And Contributors To Participation Among People Living With Parkinson’S Disease, Moon Young Kim

WUSM Theses and Dissertations – All Programs

Participation is a key outcome of rehabilitation and key to successful aging. Individuals with Parkinson’s disease (PD) often experience significant challenges in maintaining participation in meaningful activities and roles. This dissertation examines the influence of living with PD on participation by integrating findings from three studies: a systematic review, a cross-sectional study, and a longitudinal study.

The systematic review synthesized the existing quantitative research on participation in people with PD, revealing inconsistencies in the conceptualization of participation. While the evaluation tools aimed at assessing participation in PD showed acceptable coverage of domains of participation, the assessment of the aspects of …

Remote Functional Assessment: Experiences Of People Living With Spinal Cord Injury, Adrian David, Mot, Otr/L

Post-Professional Occupational Therapy Doctorate Culminating Presentations

Background: As telerehabilitation gains traction in occupational therapy, validating functional measures is crucial. Understanding clients' views on telehealth is essential, yet literature on spinal cord injury (SCI) in this context is sparse.

Objective: This study aims to describe the experiences of people living with SCI regarding remote and in-person functional testing.

Methods: A qualitative design was used, involving participants from a previous study validating the GRASSP, SCIM, and SCI-MovIN for remote use. Semi-structured interviews explored experiences, and transcripts were coded for thematic analysis. Twenty-five individuals with SCI, aged 18-80 and at least nine months post-injury, were included.

Results: Four themes …

Facilitators And Barriers For Occupational Therapy Using Ayres Sensory Integration® (Ot-Asi) For School-Aged Autistic Students: Special Education Team Perspectives, Brooke E. Loughery, Ms, Otr/L

Post-Professional Occupational Therapy Doctorate Culminating Presentations

Introduction: Occupational therapy using Ayres Sensory Integration® (OT-ASI) is an evidence-based approach that addresses sensory integration differences to support participation for autistic students in daily occupations, including education (Hume et al., 2021; Schaaf & Mailloux, 2015). However, its evidence for its use in school-based practice is still emerging (Whiting et. al., 2023; Whiting et al., 2025). A recent study showed that occupational therapists feel this approach is valuable and are interested in using it in schools (Cerase McKeon et al., 2024), but more information is needed to explore teacher and school administrators’ perception of its use.

Objectives: To explore the …

Development And Content Validation Of A Social-Emotional Learning Workshop Series For Teachers Of Preschool English Language Learners And Newcomers From The Middle East, Linda M. Lilly, Otd, Mot, Otr/L

Post-Professional Occupational Therapy Doctorate Culminating Presentations

The United States is the destination for many individuals to take refuge from the Middle East (Arab American Institute Foundation, 2021; Shryock & Abraham, 2000). Many of the refugees and immigrants (newcomers) have fled war and political oppression (Mossad, 2016; U.S. Department of Homeland Security, 2016), and thus may be at higher risk of developing adverse mental health outcomes (Mawani, 2014). Core stressors related to the newcomer status for many students in a metro-Detroit public school district can contribute to the overall mental health needs and interfere with performance in the educational setting. Social-emotional learning (SEL) programs are a typical …

The Development Of A Self-Reflection Training Module For Enhancing Students Professional Behavior Growth During Level Ii Fieldwork, Tarah Romano, Ms, Otr/L

Post-Professional Occupational Therapy Doctorate Culminating Presentations

Introduction: Occupational therapy students are expected to demonstrate competence in professional behavior skills, such as communication and incorporating constructive feedback, to be considered ready for entry-level practice. Poor professional behavior skills have been linked to challenges and failure during level II fieldwork (Gutman et al. 1998; James & Musselman, 2005). A growing body of research has supported the importance of students’ professional behaviors during fieldwork (Andonian, 2013; Brown et al., 2021; Jensen & Daniel, 2010; Mason & Mathieson, 2018); however, there is a gap in the occupational therapy research on effective methods for teaching professional behaviors to support fieldwork performance. …

Perceived Facilitators And Barriers To The Implementation Of Ayres Sensory Integration® In South African Primary School Settings, Celiané Van Der Westhuizen, Bot

Post-Professional Occupational Therapy Doctorate Culminating Presentations

Introduction

Ayres Sensory Integration^® is a highly preferred evidence-based occupational therapy approach that is utilized worldwide (Benson et al., 2019; Cerase et al., 2023; van der Merwe et al., 2011). However, more data is needed on its application and utilization in school settings (Schaaf et al., 2018; van der Merwe et al., 2011), which is a major working environment for occupational therapists (American Occupational Therapy Association, 2023; Frolek Clark & Hollenbeck, 2019; Jackson, 2007; Sonday et al., 2012).

Objectives

This study assessed the use of OT-ASI intervention in South Africa and explored the perceived facilitators and barriers of South …

Training Staff Members And Caregivers On Utilizing Allen Cognitive Levels To Aid Individuals Living With Alzheimer's And Dementia To Maintain Activities Of Daily Living, Kristy Boyd

Student Capstone Papers

This capstone is about training caregivers and staff members on utilizing the Allen Cognitive Levels to help individuals living with Alzheimer's and Dementia to maintain their ADLs.

Nursing Home Staff Perspectives Of The Benefits And Challenges Of Providing Dementia Care, Carin M. Wong, Dominique H. Como, Cara Lekovitch, Felicia Chew, Natalie E. Leland

Department of Occupational Therapy Faculty Papers

OBJECTIVES: To capture nursing home staff perspectives on the benefits and challenges related to caring for residents living with Alzheimer disease and other related dementias. These perspectives will inform the initial development of strategies to help with staff retention.

DESIGN: A secondary qualitative analysis of semistructured interviews conducted with nursing home staff, which was embedded within a pragmatic clinical trial.

SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS: Purposive sampling was used to capture perspectives of staff spanning across job roles from 23 nursing homes.

METHODS: During the parent study primary analysis, staff experiences providing dementia care were consistently described. In response, this study completed …

Development Of Financial Management Skills: A Guidebook For Caregivers Of Autistic Children, Marcie Balleza, Steven M. Gerardi, Angela Blackwell

Fall 2024 OTD Capstone Symposium

Autistic children face challenges to living independently, including learning to manage finances. Caregivers of autistic children must develop in their care recipients the financial skills to live independently. A lack of educational resources on how to teach financial management skills can impede the development of independent living skills in autistic children. Caregivers of autistic children lack the education and training that is necessary to teach financial management skills to autistic children to prepare them for transition to adulthood. Caregivers of autistic children do not know how to help their child learn money management skills in preparation for the transition to …