A Mixed-Methods Study of Patient and Caregiver Experiences with Home Health Occupational Therapy

Authors

• Peyton A. Mendias, University of St. Augustine for Health SciencesFollow
• Cassandra Nelson, University of St. Augustine for Health SciencesFollow
• Gwen Morris, University of St. Augustine for Health SciencesFollow

Files

Description

Home health occupational therapy (HHOT) promotes independence and safety within the home, yet patients and caregivers often experience challenges implementing therapy recommendations after discharge. This mixed-methods study explored the lived experiences of patients and caregivers who participated in HHOT to identify barriers and facilitators to implementing occupational therapy recommendations and inform the development of a caregiver education toolkit. Adults who received HHOT within the previous six months and informal caregivers completed an online survey, with a subset participating in semi-structured interviews. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, and qualitative interview data were analyzed using reflexive thematic analysis. Findings emphasized the importance of clear therapist communication, individualized recommendations, caregiver involvement, and accessible educational resources to support successful implementation of occupational therapy strategies in the home. These findings informed the development of Supporting Success at Home, an evidence-based online caregiver education toolkit designed to improve understanding of HHOT, promote home safety, and support continued participation in meaningful daily activities. This study highlights the value of patient and caregiver-centered approaches to enhancing outcomes in home health occupational therapy.

Publication Date

Summer 8-2026

Publisher

The University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences

Keywords

Home health occupational therapy, occupational therapy, home health, caregivers, patient education, caregiver education, home safety, mixed-methods research, quantitative research, qualitative research, implementation of therapy recommendations, patient experiences, caregiver experiences

Medical Subject Headings

Occupational Therapy, Caregivers

Disciplines

Occupational Therapy

Comments

Poster presented at the OTD Capstone Symposium, held at the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences, August 20, 2026.

Recommended Citation

Mendias, P. A., Nelson, C., & Morris, G. (2026, August 1). A Mixed-Methods Study of Patient and Caregiver Experiences with Home Health Occupational Therapy. Poster presented at the Virtual OTD Capstone Symposium, University of St Augustine for Health Sciences. Retrieved from https://soar.usa.edu/otdcapstonessummer2026/9