Spring 2024 Virtual OTD Capstone Symposium

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  A Manualized Occupational Therapy Communication Skills Intervention for Veterans With Posttraumatic Stress Disorder

  Kiara Ainsworth and Steven M. Gerardi

  Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) affects many individual's participation in daily activities. There is a lack of research in the area of occupational therapy (OT) treatment for veterans with PTSD. However, there has been an expressed need in the literature for a developed intervention for veterans with PTSD that includes communication skills as a component. To date, a manualized communication skills OT intervention for veterans with PTSD has not been created. The purpose of this paper was to develop a resource tool for occupational therapists to utilize as an intervention when treating veterans with PTSD using the framework of the Model of Human Occupation (MOHO) as its theoretical foundation.

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  Theme Park Experiences of Families with a Child who has a Disability Regarding Accessibility and Participation - A mixed methods study

  Kylie Kathryn Allan and Karen Park

  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 changing technology. There are areas for improvement, such as: physical design and current accessibility resources.

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  An Exploration of Pediatric Occupational Therapist's Perspectives on Functional and Assistive Mobility

  Jennifer Allison and Amy Lyons-Brown

  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 pediatric settings participated in the survey. Four participated in the interview. Participants indicated that they perceived functional mobility as part of their role with less emphasis on their role when assistive mobility devices are introduced. Three key themes emerged from qualitative data: functional mobility as a means to an end, disconnect between perception and practice, and blurred lines in scope of practice.

  Discussion: Occupational therapists have an important role in addressing functional mobility, including the implementation and use of assistive mobility devices. However, there is a lack of clarity regarding scope of practice when addressing functional mobility as well as addressing implementation and use of assistive mobility devices.

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  Learning within the Autism Perspective

  Sarina Alvarez and Rebecca King

  The project addresses the needs of children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) within school settings, aiming to improve educational outcomes and quality of life. It highlights the role occupational therapists play in fostering collaboration and creating a supportive environment. The program utilizes a variety of activities to positively impact students education and encourage educational participation. Recommendations include further distribution of the activities to different campuses to promote program adoption.

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  A Guidebook for The Utility of MSK Ultrasound in Occupational Therapy Practice: An Educational Guidebook Series

  Alanna Arceneaux, Mary Ann Smith, and Bert Lindsey

  Musculoskeletal (MSK) ultrasound is expanding to non-physician rehabilitation providers, and occupational therapy has a clear role in using and facilitating MSK ultrasound that will drastically shape treatment plans and client satisfaction. With increased knowledge of impeding factors, occupational therapists can enforce their role by teaching new skills and techniques to enhance functional mobility and simultaneously assist in completing activities of daily living (ADLs). This capstone aims to understand, develop, and enhance the role of occupational therapy in MSK ultrasound to increase early detection of orthopedic conditions impacting ADLs, which will decrease hospital readmission rates. MSK ultrasound is a safe imaging modality with high sensitivity and specificity for detecting traumatic, inflammatory, and degenerative soft tissue MSK conditions but is operator-dependent (Warning et al., 2021). In addition, this capstone project will advocate for occupational therapy's role in inpatient acute MSK ultrasound.

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  Experiences of Working Sandwich Generation Caregivers

  Kimberly Ben and Susan MacDermott

  This poster presents an insightful exploration into the lives of Working Sandwich Generation Caregivers (WSCs), a group defined as individuals aged 30-65 who simultaneously provide care for both aging adults (over 65 years old) and younger dependents (29 years old or younger), while also managing their careers. The study delves deep into the unique challenges and experiences faced by WSCs, aiming to highlight the occupational, emotional, and physical demands inherent in their roles. Through qualitative research methods, including interviews and occupational therapy assessments, the manuscript offers a comprehensive look at the balancing act WSCs perform daily. It seeks to inform effective support strategies and interventions, thereby contributing valuable insights to the field of occupational therapy and caregiving support.

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  Fine Motor Integration for Children with Special Needs and Low Tone

  Iliana V. Blancas and Rebecca King

  The topic of focus will be a Fine Motor Integration Program for Children with Special Needs and Low Tone and provide students, parents, teachers, and therapists a resource to aid with the development of these skills. This program hopes to establish the development of the fine motor skills at an early age to reduce the issues that arise later within the school years that stem from lack of fine motor skills within this population.

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  OT's Role with Survivors of Sexual Assault

  Myracle N. Carter and Cassandra M. Nelson

  Sexual assault can lead to a multitude of symptoms that can negatively impact an individual’s occupational participation and quality of life. However, the literature and programming surrounding the use of occupational therapy (OT) with survivors of sexual assault is limited or outdated. Therefore, this program was created to be a resource and guide to increase the use of OT with survivors. This program included a total of five modules, which provided education and occupation-based activities to the participants to increase their occupational participation, specifically in work and education, and their overall quality of life. Following the conclusion of the implementation phase, a program manual was created and disseminated to continue the program following the conclusion of the capstone experience and to serve as a resource for the use of OT with survivors of sexual assault.

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  Wellness Research & Programming for Bodybuilders

  Victoria Castillo, Karen Park, and Kersten Laughlin

  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.

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  Awareness and Advocacy for the Needs of NFL Athletes: A Qualitative Study

  Bianca Castro and Susan MacDermott

  The presentation delves into understanding, investigating, and supporting the occupational needs of NFL athletes. Through thorough research and analysis, it was revealed that these athletes face distinct challenges and demands in their professional and personal lives, specifically in wellness, quality of life, and lifestyle balance. The study results provide knowledge and abilities to address and advocate the unique needs of NFL athletes. The evidence strongly emphasizes the advantages and benefits of occupational therapy services in non-traditional settings such as sports.

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  Occupation-Focused Aquatic Therapy for Stroke Survivors

  Amanda Chan and Amy Lyons-Brown

  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.

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  Promoting Child Rearing for Teen Mothers within the Foster Care System

  Monic Chavez and Rebecca King

  Teenage pregnancy in foster care is twice the national average, with one-third becoming pregnant by 17. There are limited programs available to assist teen mothers in foster care in developing healthy parent-child relationships and parenting skills despite their desire to break the cycle of trauma and improve their relationships with their children. The objective of the capstone program is to establish and operate a residential maternity home-based trauma-informed parenting program that assists teenage mothers in foster care in developing parenting skills and a healthy parent-child relationship by providing them with the necessary resources and support.

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  Promoting Parental Competence When Transitioning from the NICU to Home: A Coaching Intervention

  Vanessa Chavez and Angela Labrie Blackwell

  This handbook aims to improve the support system for families in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) by developing a coaching intervention that empowers parents, improves their confidence, and provides necessary home care skills.

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  The Impact of Acquired Brain Injury on Functional Cognition and Meal Preparation and Strategies to Reduce Caregiver Burnout

  LaDarrian Cobb and Cassandra Nelson

  In this presentation the background, purpose, problem, methods and program results that the student completed on his doctoral capstone experience are presented.

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  Voices Beyond Bars: A Qualitative Study Examining Occupational Participation for Formerly Incarcerated Women

  Brianna Correia; Mary Smith OTD, OTR/L; and Cynthia Simons RPS, MHPS

  This capstone project addressed the research question: “What are the systemic, societal, and personal barriers and facilitators to occupational participation and engagement that formerly incarcerated women experience in Texas?” The project aimed to advocate for formerly incarcerated women living in Texas by interviewing and collaborating with them to create an advocacy booklet highlighting their lived experiences. Following USAHS IRB approval, recruitment, and screening, 20 participants engaged in a semi-structured interview via Zoom. Insights on their experience post-incarceration in Texas regarding housing, employment, family, healthcare, and change were explored. The data obtained was analyzed and codes and themes were identified. When examining the results of the study, occupational participation and engagement for formerly incarcerated women were influenced by factors on personal, societal, and systemic levels. The Participatory Occupational Justice Framework was used when collaborating with formerly incarcerated women to reflect and collaborate on how to address occupational injustices of occupational imbalance, occupational alienation, and occupational deprivation, as mentioned previously. Through the interview process, the formerly incarcerated women provided incredible insight and reflection on their experience post-incarceration and the changes that need to occur to properly address the occupational injustices they face. The advocacy booklet serves as the mode of collaboration between the participant and the researchers, as it creates an avenue for the voices of the participants to be amplified.

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  Ergonomics in Esports: A Video Training Series for Esports Athletes

  Duy Do, Steven M. Gerardi, and Braden Singleton

  Electronic sports, also known as esports, refers to organized and competitive video gaming against other players or teams. Unlike traditional sports, esports is sedentary, with athletes spending several hours daily seated at their gaming stations. Additionally, esports athletes lack the knowledge of ergonomic hazards and how to mitigate occupational overuse syndromes and mental health challenges. The purpose of this project was to create a video training series from an occupational therapy perspective to educate esports athletes on the ergonomic hazards of esports to improve participation, occupational performance, and quality of life of esports athletes.

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  Integrating Nature-Based Occupational Therapy in Traditional Clinical Settings: Addressing Adverse Childhood Experiences

  Renee Duong and Karen Park

  Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) refer to traumatic situations that a child may face during the early developmental stages of life (Felitti et al., 1998). According to research, the detrimental effects of adversity and emotional distress may contribute to poor outcomes in adulthood. Research has shown that exposure to adversity can change a child's molecular and genetic system and influence the development and functioning of their neurological, immune, and endocrine systems. There is a significant public health concern considering the long-term implications of adverse childhood experiences on an individual's overall well-being (Boullier & Blair, 2018). This project aims to conduct a needs assessment to determine an effective program to bring nature indoors. This project aims to raise awareness about the benefits of outdoor therapy for adolescents experiencing trauma receiving treatment indoors. This project will provide an individualized approach to meeting the client's needs through nature-based play.

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  Values of Occupational Balance and Harmony Among BIPOC Caregivers

  Vanessa Duran and Karen Park

  Background. Historically minoritized populations are underrepresented within hospice care. The lack of diversity among hospice care recipients impacts the development of culturally responsive programming within hospice care for BIPOC family caregivers.

  Objective. To learn of the values and perspectives of BIPOC family caregivers in hospice care regarding occupational balance and occupational harmony.

  Methods. A mixed-methods study that included an online survey and an optional interview. Measurements utilized were the Occupational Balance Questionnaire (OBQ-11) and an anonymous survey. Three participants completed the online survey.

  Results. Preliminary codes were determined by the student researcher from the online survey responses. Four codes were identified: domains of caregiving, spirituality, spectrum of strategies for self-care, and sense of purpose.

  Conclusions. Preliminary analysis suggests that BIPOC caregivers relate to cultural values that align with familism and caregiver burden. Suggestions for future research in occupational therapy should aim to assesses the efficacy of a program to better support resiliency for BIPOC caregivers in hospice.

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  The Occupational Performance of Student-Athletes Post-Concussion: A Guide for Coaches and Athletic Trainers

  Baylee A. Felts, Mary Ann Smith, and Danielle Cade

  Concussions are a rising concern amongst the sports community. Student-athletes with concussions can exhibit deficits in physical, psychosocial, cognitive, and visual-perceptual abilities (Centers for Disease Control, 2019). Occupational therapists are equipped to address the impacts of those deficits to improve occupational engagement and performance but are often overlooked in concussion management teams (Finn, 2019). A concussion management team typically consists of coaches, athletic trainers (ATs), physicians, and sometimes physical therapists, depending on the severity of the concussion. Due to growing concern and continued research, the concussion management team must be current with new information. Coaches and ATs may not keep up with new challenges and may not know how to identify subtle signs of concussions. This guidebook aimed to create a guidebook for coaches and ATs on working with student-athletes with concussions to educate them on concussions, how to treat them, understand symptoms, and more. When creating the guidebook, occupational therapy was rooted in the background by utilizing the Model of Human Occupation (MOHO) and the Cognitive-Behavioral Frame of Reference. The guidebook consists of six chapters that include background on concussions, what occupational therapy is and its role, how to identify, treat, and adapt to concussions, how concussions vary by person and sport, and more. This capstone document comprises five chapters that discuss the background, literature review, proposed methods of creating the guidebook, results, and discussion. This capstone project broadens the understanding of concussions in student-athletes and occupational therapy’s role in the concussion management team. Using this guidebook will increase occupational performance and quality of life (QoL) in student-athletes with concussions.

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  Occupational Therapy for People With Dementia who Have Occupational Performance Challenges due to Depression

  Ally Frazier and Steven M. Gerardi

  Individuals with dementia experience a multitude of barriers and challenges that impact their daily engagement throughout the environment. In addition, although the pandemic has concluded, noxious effects are still influencing people's lives. Residential care facilities have noticed continual acts of isolation that are presenting as barriers in mental health. Depression has known to be a common comorbidity in the ailment of dementia. Occupational therapy (OT) practitioners have the unique and valuable role in working with this population to target beyond the biomechanical aspects of a resident. Identifying barriers for mastery in leisure pursuits throughout someone’s day is crucial. When residents do not have successful experiences throughout their day they are not living through an encouraging environment to allow for the opportunity of prolonging cognition. Based on the literature review and the capstone experience site OT practitioners show the need for a program consisting of therapeutic activities that target depression in those with dementia. The purpose of the project is to develop an occupation-based OT program to treat people with dementia who had occupational performance challenges due to depression. This program is structured around the Model of Human Occupation (MOHO), Behavioral Activation (BA), and the Allen Cognitive Level Screen (ACLS). The program consists of eight therapeutic activities that are broken down into three different ways of executing, based off the ACLS levels of three through five. The development of this capstone project will be an influential piece for occupational therapists to reference throughout their plan of care for a resident.

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  Play Over Talk: A Toolkit for Educators on Adverse Childhood Experiences

  Brianna Gallegos, Mary Ann Smith, and Cat Daniel

  Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) are traumatic experiences that can lead to negative, lasting effects on the health and well-being of the child. Students who have ACEs are more likely to struggle in school, have difficulty paying attention, lack self-regulation skills, and struggle to control their emotions and behaviors. Teachers and school staff may not recognize or know how to support students who have adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) which can impact the child’s occupational role as a student. To date, a resource for school staff with information on ACEs, interventions, and strategies has not been created. The purpose of this project was to develop a trauma-informed occupation-based resource that allows teachers and school staff to identify and support students who have experienced childhood adversity by using interventions to improve their academic achievements and quality of life. This resource will also serve as an advocate for OT’s role in working with students who have ACEs.

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  A Qualitative Study on Mother's Occupational Engagement After a NICU Experience

  Rachel Garcia; Mary Ann Smith; and Julie Heftie MS, OTR/L

  Mothers who are “at-risk” for complications during pregnancy have an increased probability for mental health conditions following delivery, adversely affecting their engagement in motherhood occupations. This qualitative study identifies how best to address the needs of “at-risk” pregnant women. Through the process of conducting semi-structured interviews with women who have experienced NICU with their babies, and interviews with healthcare practitioners working in the NICU, their narrative addresses what approaches would support women while they are going through their “at-risk” pregnancies to assist them with the transition to their occupational roles as mothers and promote bonding with their baby.

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  The Role of Occupational Therapy in Enhancing Adaptive Golf

  Jessica A. Garday and Susan MacDermott

  This project is focused on advocating on behalf of golfers with disabilities by providing an educational resource for golf administrators on enhancing adaptive golf at their facility. The project's deliverable was an in-service presentation highlighting the importance of adaptive golf and its positive impact on community, state, and national individuals. The in-service was delivered through the Southern California Professional Golf Association SCPGA Catalyst webinar series. The topics included grants for adaptive equipment, the financial impact of adaptive golf on the industry, community partnerships, and golf course design modifications utilizing the most cost-effective approaches. The student found that more education can be provided to the consumers, (i.e., adaptive athletes) on getting the equipment they need to optimize their golfing experience.

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  Work Hardening and Mindfulness Training for Individuals Living with Traumatic Limb Loss

  Jayda Gibson and Cassandra Nelson

  About 185,000 amputations occur every year, leaving roughly about 2 million individuals currently living with limb loss in the United States. Within this population, about 45% of these injuries occur from traumatic events (Department of Veteran Affairs, 2022). These events include military veterans injured in combat, civilian motor vehicle accidents, gun shot wounds, industrial incidents, and various other traumatic events (Pomares et al., 2020). Due to the the recent loss of a limb, individuals within this population are at high risk of occupational abandonment secondary to many factors that are discussed within the Model of Human Occupation. Following a traumatic amputation, an individual may experience a decline in physical performance secondary to the loss of a limb. With this decline in performance, an individuals perception of their own abilities performing within their previous meaningful occupations may decline as well (Krisjansdottir et al., 2020). This could be due to a multitude of factors, including a decline in confidence to perform a variety of previously desired tasks. Following this decline in volition, an individual living with limb loss will experience a decrease in habituation due to a sudden change in their internalized roles. This change in roles is secondary to a correlation between decline in performance due to the recent loss of a limb and also a decline in volition. A major occupation that is heavily impacted by these factors is work. Work is an occupation that majority of our population participates in. When impacted, the decrease of participation can affect an individual's overall well-being in a negative manner (Edgelow, et al., 2020). Work provides an individual with many benefits such as fulfillment, economic independence, and social participation; however, it can also be harmful to an individual’s overall well-being if it is impacted in a negative manner (Edgelow et al., 2020). Society values work because it provides people with a sense of purpose and belonging to something larger than themselves. Furthermore, work emphasizes effort through external rewards such as compensation or promotion that then leads to self-satisfaction (Edgelow et al., 2020). This degree of influence work has on an individual’s well-being means it can heavily influence other occupations negatively and eventually lead to occupational abandonment.

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  Yoga Program for Children at Risk for Trauma: Promoting Self-Regulation and Educational Participation

  Sydney Gonzales and Rebecca King

  This presentation describes implementing a yoga-based program within an early childhood education setting. Occupational therapists can utilize yoga-based activities and advocate for their use in classrooms to promote the positive development of self-regulation and educational participation for at-risk populations.

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  The CI-ASD Program: Implementation of Contextual Interventions for Autism Spectrum Disorder (CI-ASD) with Latino Families (Preliminary Report)

  Gabriel Gonzalez, Erik Pérez, and Angela Blackwell

  Children diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) experience sensory processing differences that affect their participation in daily activities and routines. Autism affects an estimated 1 in 36 children in the U.S. However, Latino children are diagnosed two years later than white children. Latino families still have the greatest disparities in accessing ASD resources throughout the U.S. compared to white families. The lack of ASD services and resources led to decreased parental self-efficacy, quality of life, and increased child behavioral problems.

  Contextual Interventions Adapted for Autism Spectrum Disorder (CI-ASD) are an emerging intervention for occupational therapy (OT) practitioners. Recent literature shows improvement in child participation and parental self-efficacy when combining sensory processing knowledge with a coaching approach within a family-centered context.

  While some evidence supports the application of CI-ASD in improving children's participation and promoting a sense of efficacy, this intervention has not been implemented within the Latino Community.

  The purpose of this capstone was to examine the following research questions:

  • Does CI-ASD increase the quality of life in Latino Families?
  • Does CI-ASD promote Latino parenting sense of efficacy?
  • Does CI-ASD promote children's participation in Latino family activities and routines?

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  Management of Sensory Processing Challenges in the Classroom: An Educational Video Series for Teachers.

  Jasmine Guerrero and Steven M. Gerardi

  An educational video series for teachers on sensory processing and how to manage students with sensory processing challenges in the classroom. The video series includes evidence-based supports and strategies that may be utilized in the classroom to improve students' occupational performance.

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  Disabling Conditions of Para-Alpine Athletes: An Education Series for Ski Instructors

  Meghan Hawes, Steven M. Gerardi, and Heather Rennerfeldt

  Para-alpine ski instructors in the United States need more training on disabling conditions and their definition, deficits, and adaptations for para-alpine skiing; This capstone closes the gap. Para-Alpine skiing is discussed in detail, highlighting instructor training, adaptive equipment, and para-athletes. The disabling conditions of para-athletes are identified along with details related to their para-alpine skiing experience. The methods of this capstone consisted of creating an educational series of videos highlighting five disabling conditions: Autism, spinal cord injuries and conditions, vision impairments, cerebral palsy, and progressive neurodegenerative disorders. The product was presented following a 14-week experience with the National Sports Center for the Disabled in Winter Park, CO.

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  The Transition to Adulthood for High School Students with Special Needs

  Athena Hays, Mary Jan Greer, and Jinna Danser

  The reason for many special needs students not engaging in occupations after high school is because many guardians have not had to navigate this type of transition before and are not provided enough education on what these opportunities include before their students graduate. Many students with special needs do not optimize their engagement in the community because guardians are not being provided with education on post-graduate opportunities.

  The purpose of my Doctoral Capstone Project is to develop an educational transition service program for special needs students as well as guardians and teachers of these students preparing for high school graduation and transitioning into adulthood.

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  A Guidebook for Latina Breast Cancer Survivors & Occupational Therapy Practitioners

  Abigail Hernandez, Leslie Khan-Farooqi, and Mary Ann Smith

  Many Latina women diagnosed with breast cancer face psychosocial challenges and do not have access or the necessary resources to assist them with these challenges which may lead to decreased quality of life. This study is designed to address the most common psychosocial issues associated with breast cancer to assist Latina women as well as occupational therapy practitioners.

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  Colors of Connection: A Manual for Cultivating Social and Emotional Skills in Children with Disabilities Through Creative Arts

  Allie Hertaus; Angela Labrie Blackwell PhD, OTR; and Haleigh Freeman OTD, OTR/L

  Children with disabilities (CWD) are experiencing occupational deprivation due to limited involvement in extracurricular activities. This deprivation impedes their development of social-emotional skills. In attempt to mitigate this deprivation, the OTD student created and implemented Colors of Connection, a creative arts based, social and emotional learning program into an already existing after school program for CWD.

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  Training Summer Camp Counselors to Understand and Address the Unique Needs of Campers with Disabilities: A Video Series

  Sadie Ingram, Karlie Christensen, and Angela Blackwell

  This poster outlines a video series created for a specific camp in North Texas. The population this camp serves is youth and young adults with mental and physical disabilities.

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  Occupational Therapists' Perception of Children with Neurodevelopmental Disorders & Sleep in Pediatric Outpatient Settings

  Carina Jimenez, Susan MacDermott, and Jazminne Orozco Arteaga

  The capstone investigates pediatric occupational therapists' views on managing sleep issues in children with neurodevelopmental disorders. It highlights gaps in education and resources and emphasizes the need for evidence-based interventions. Findings emphasize the importance of enhancing occupational therapists' role in addressing sleep challenges for improved family well-being, advocating for more comprehensive education and support systems.

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  Home and Community Reintegration in Chronic Phase Guillain Barre Recovery

  Avani Johnson and Cassandra Nelson

  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.

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  A Guide for Supplemental Education on Seating and Positioning for Parents and Caregivers of Individuals with Cerebral Palsy

  Grace Johnson, Mary Jan Greer, and Franchesca Cox

  An educational program that educates caregivers and families on the importance of proper seating and positioning during play, feeding, bone development and growth, speech, reaching, toy manipulation, handwriting and interacting with peers.

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  A Manualized Occupational Therapy Communication Skills Module for Clients with PTSD

  Lacey Kinard and Steven M. Gerardi

  Individuals with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) experience a variety of barriers and challenges that impact their daily occupational performance, engagement, well-being, and quality of life. There is a lack of research in the area of manualized occupational therapy (OT) treatment options for people with PTSD. Literature has expressed a need for the development of a manual-based OT treatment program for people with PTSD with communication skills training as an intervention component. The purpose of this project is to create a manualized OT communication skills intervention module for occupational therapists to implement with clients with PTSD for improved occupational performance and quality of life. This project consisted of a intervention module with five sections, one section specifically designed as a module introduction for occupational therapy practitioners, and four intervention sessions related to topics on communication skills.

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  Developing Healthy Routines in Adults with Serious Mental Illness Living in Supportive Housing: A Caregiver Guidebook

  McKenna Kuhlman, Angela Blackwell, and Lacey Spark

  Serious mental illness (SMI) are mental, emotional, or behavioral disorders that result in serious functional impairment limiting daily participation in activities. (National Institute of Mental Health [NIMH], n.d.-a). Adults living with serious mental illness (SMI) often experience unhealthy or maladaptive routines and often lack the support to build these routines. Supportive housing provides a stable home for adults with SMI to build healthy routines while receiving specialized treatments. In supportive housing organizations, there is a need for caregiver resources to support the individual's healthy routine obtainment. This capstone project developed a five-step caregiver guidebook to help adults with SMI build healthy routines using a supportive and collaborative approach. This capstone guidebook was provided to a behavioral health organization to be utilized and sustainable for each adult with SMI who is seen in their therapeutic foster care program. This capstone project’s goal was to create a caregiver guidebook for developing healthy routines and promoting the participation, occupational identity, and occupational competence of adults with SMI living in supportive housing.

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  Occupational Harmony in Night Shift Nurses Since 2020

  Janelle J. Magpayo and Karen Park

  This capstone project explores the experiences of night shift nurses during the COVID-19 pandemic and how these experiences impact their occupational harmony. Using a mixed-methods approach including online surveys and interviews, this study identifies themes such as the importance of rest and sleep, the impact of the pandemic on occupational well-being, and the significance of leisure activities. The findings emphasize the need for nurses to balance various aspects of their lives to enhance their well-being within their environments.

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  Improving Participation in Physical Education for Children with Disabilities

  Randi Major and Susan MacDermott

  Participating in adaptive sports has many benefits for children with disabilities (CWD), however literature demonstrates that many barriers exist within community-setting adaptive sports which impact participation for CWD. There is currently a lack of understanding of the needs of CWD and the barriers that exist within schools that impact their participation in physical activities and sports. In addition, the literature demonstrates that many individuals with disabilities are not meeting the recommended minutes for daily physical activity which can impact the health and well-being of CWD (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention [CDC], 2022).

  The purpose of this capstone project was to develop a better understanding of the needs of CWD and barriers that exist within schools which may impact their participation in physical activities and sports. This capstone project aimed to demonstrate that sports rules can be learned, and accommodations can be made for CWD to improve participation in physical activities and sports (Carbone et al., 2021). Lastly, the intent of this project was to develop a better understanding of the role of occupational therapy in Physical Education, physical activities, and sports within schools.

  By conducting structured observations, activity analyses, and providing cues, accommodations, and modifications as needed, this project demonstrated that sports rules are not too difficult for CWD to learn, and that accommodations could be made to make physical activities and sports more inclusive for this population. Through interprofessional collaboration, occupational therapy can support participation in physical activities and sports for CWD.

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  Every Moment Counts (EMC): Understanding School Stakeholder Perceptions of Positive Mental Health Promotion in the Elementary School Setting. A Preliminary Report.

  Madeline Malooly, Angela Blackwell, and Lauren Thomas

  For children and adolescents, the prevalence of psychological disorders associated with mental illness continues to rise in North America and is now considered to be the leading cause of disability for this population (Bitsko et al., 2022). It was estimated that between 25 and 50% of adult mental illnesses could be prevented through early intervention and preventative measures in childhood (Kim-Cohen et al., 2003). In an effort to address mental health promotion in schools, Dr. Susan Bazyk founded and created EMC, which is a “multi-pronged mental health promotion initiative to help all children to be mentally healthy in order to succeed in school, at home, and in the community” (Bazyk, 2023).The purpose of this capstone was two-fold. The first objective was to implement Refreshing Recess as part of the EMC initiative to promote immediate and life-long health and well-being in elementary school children. The second objective was to examine school stakeholders’ perceptions of EMC initiatives after implementation in a specific elementary school. The second objective of this capstone was done by conducting a phenomenological, qualitative research study analyzing survey responses from school stakeholders after implementation of the Refreshing Recess initiative.

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  Occupational Engagement in Recreational Sports for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing: An Employee Guidebook

  Colleen McErlean, Mary Ann Smith, and Christopher Ebner

  An employee guidebook to help increase occupational engagement within recreational sports for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing population in the Austin, TX area.

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  The Role of Occupational Therapy for Mothers with Children who have had a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) Stay

  Reagan McLendon and Cynthia Haynes

  This study examined the occupational needs of mothers with a child who required a NICU stay and illustrates the potential roles of occupational therapy for this population.

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  Social and Leisure Participation by People with Dementia: A Caregiver Resource Guide

  ReBecca McMillian, Beth Lambert, Mary Smith, and Katherine Christie

  The purpose of this caregiver education intervention is to increase caregiver self-efficacy and effectiveness in increasing social participation and quality of life for those they are caring for as well as decreasing caregiver stress and burnout associated with providing care for those diagnosed with Alzheimer's. The guide will include education and resources for these caregivers detailing safety precautions, strategies to reduce difficult behaviors impacting social and leisure engagement, and resources to decrease caregiver burden.

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  Care for Caregivers: Exploring Occupational Therapy's Role in Caregiver Support

  Mariah Mendez, Amy Lyons-Brown, and Negin Zare

  Care for Caregivers explores the challenges of spousal and remote caregivers to determine how occupational therapy can assist through program development.

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  Self-Regulation and Sensory Processing Education Program for Educators

  Julianne Mendivil, Tina G. Bhakta, and Angela Blackwell

  Children with low self-regulation skills may face many challenges in the classroom environment that can impact their performance in school-based activities. As teachers play a vital role in the development of young children, this educational program aims to improve teacher competence (knowledge, skills, and attitudes) in applying sensory processing and self-regulating concepts to the school environment.

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  An Adapted Yoga Program for Adults with Neuromuscular Impairments Designed to Improve Balance, Mood, Quality of Life, and Engagement in Daily Occupations

  Hayes Miller; Mary Smith OTD, OTR/L; and Christienne Parten OTD, MEd, OTR

  Neuromuscular impairments such as Parkinson's disease (PD) and Multiple Sclerosis (MS) affect an individual's balance, mood, and ability to engage in daily occupations, ultimately impacting their quality of life. Yoga is a practice that is adaptable to any level of function and is holistic in its goal of mind-body unity. However, there has been minimal research regarding yoga's efficacy as a modality for populations with neuromuscular impairments. This study aimed to improve these factors as well as proprioception and interoceptive awareness through the delivery of a 6-week community-based yoga program. The program involved 5 participants, 4 with PD and 1 with MS participating in 6 in-person group yoga sessions. In addition to these sessions, 7 individual telehealth sessions were delivered to reinforce the use of yoga in their everyday environment and to implement an individualized plan. Adaptations allowing for greater accessibility and engagement were utilized. Qualities and aspects of the study with greater impact as reported by the participants were themed and associated with different aspects of the Person-Environment-Occupation-Performance (PEOP) model with quotes from the participants. Themes highlighted the participants’ value of the use of hands-on assistance ensuring proper alignment and positioning during poses; the comradery that was fostered through which participants shared effective strategies to mitigate various barriers; and the appreciation for the atmosphere’s calming effect.

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  Improving Health and Wellness in Patients with Frailty Traits

  Jessica Lyndsay Moore and Cassandra Nelson

  Frailty is an age-related syndrome characterized by impairments in strength, endurance, mobility, and cognitive function (Panayi et al., 2019). Studies show that frailty increases vulnerability during stressful events such as hospitalization and is linked to poor recovery (Peeler et al., 2022). In addition to poor recovery, frail patients are at risk for increased dependence, reduced occupational performance, and reduced occupational engagement (Kawaguchi et al., 2017). Purpose: This capstone project aimed to improve health and wellness in individuals with frailty traits by implementing a comprehensive program focused on improving strength, functional capacity, nutrition intake, stress management, cognitive health, and social wellness.

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  An OT Program to Support Women with High-risk Pregnancy

  Mackenzie M. Morgan and Cassandra Nelson

  This poster is an overview of an occupational therapy program developed at a Women's Health OBGYN Clinic in Texas. The program was designed to address the needs of women with high-risk pregnancy and focused on mental health, physical health, energy conservation, emotional regulation, and social participation. The findings indicate the needs for further research to understand how occupational therapy can support women's health and an expansion of program offerings to increase support for high-risk pregnancy.

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  Occupational Impacts of Seizures

  Stephanie Nailon, Karen Park, and Kelly Rodenkirch

  This research looks at the occupational impacts of seizure disorders on the adolescent population. The research study explores how their condition impacts the adolescent and family unit. The research was gathered from multiple perspectives to gain an in-depth understanding to best aid occupational therapists and health care professionals to gain a deeper understanding of areas to address when working with this population.

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  The Social Participation Development for Individuals with Unilateral and Bilateral Lower Extremity Amputation

  Priscilla D. Omewah, Cassandra Nelson, and Scott Love

  This occupation-based program aims to help maintain and increase social participation for individuals with unilateral or bilateral lower extremity amputations. It was developed with an occupational therapy (OT) lens targeting adults with a lower limb amputation with a population of various ages (18-70), genders, and causes of injury to develop an occupation-based program with an OT focus. Individuals living with amputation often experience hardship when developing crucial ADL/IADL skills that can be vital for social participation regardless of age or cause of injury. This program focuses on developing social participation skills lost due to decreased functional mobility and skills caused by amputation and looks at the improvements made through occupational therapy interventions. It provides activity adaptation, prosthesis education, and mental health promotion. The program outcomes involve a needs assessment, the development of a program manual, the program implementation, and a data analysis. The significance is to educate and train amputees on daily life skills, prosthetic use, social techniques, pain strategies, and exercise training. In summary, this amputee program aims to bridge the literature gap in understanding an amputee’s challenges through developing an OT-focused program to enhance their social participation, ultimately improving their quality of life.