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Description

To improve the transition of individuals with Guillain Barre Syndrome (GBS) to their homes and communities following the onset of their condition, Avani Johnson, OTS, CPT, in partnership with Able Faith, Inc. and key stakeholders will present a poster presentation on the development of a home and community reintegration program. The overarching goal of this project was to identify the efficacy of community reintegration programs in yielding effective transitions to home and community roles for individuals with (GBS). This was completed through the development and implementation of a home and community reintegration program at a community center located within the Dallas/Fort Worth Metropolitan area. Key disciplines involved included occupational therapy, fitness training, and community center staff/volunteers. Objectives included: the provision of services targeting 1) home evaluation and modification; 2) job matching and job skills training; 3) neurological and motor rehabilitation; 4) hobby and leisure exploration; 5) activities of daily living (ADLs) and independent activities of daily living (IADLs) training; and 6) caregiver education. Outcomes for participants include: 1) increased quality of life; 2) job acquisition and/or improved job performance and maintenance; 3) improved community mobility; 4) increased independence with home and community tasks; and 5) improved hobby, leisure, and social participation. Project deliverables include a manual which guides the development and implementation of the program. This includes recommendations for staffing, equipment, outreach, and structure, as well as professional development and training tools.

The success of this program can propose a new method for filling the gap that often remains after traditional rehabilitation periods, in which individuals with GBS are discharged with persisting functional deficits, which limit a successful return to their home and community roles (Laparidou et al., 2021; Tomita et al., 2016). This project can spearhead the creation of similar programs in community centers nationwide while making a case for extended rehabilitation periods for those with GBS. This project can also identify an area of need for occupational therapy services in a nontraditional setting (community center), increasing the accessibility of healthcare.

Publication Date

Spring 4-17-2024

Publisher

University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences

Keywords

Guillain-Barre syndrome, Community integration, Occupational therapy, Activities of daily living, Quality of life, Social participation

Medical Subject Headings

Guillain-Barre syndrome, Community integration, Occupational therapy, Activities of daily living, Quality of life, Social participation

Disciplines

Community Health | Occupational Therapy

Comments

Poster presented at the Virtual OTD Capstone Symposium, held online at the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences on April 10-17, 2024.

Home and Community Reintegration in Chronic Phase Guillain Barre Recovery

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