From Missed to Measured: Understanding and Elevating Functional Cognition in Occupational Therapy

Authors

• Taylor Card, University of St. Augustine for Health SciencesFollow
• Zeida Gutierrez, University of St. Augustine for Health SciencesFollow
• Gordon Giles, Samuel Merritt UniversityFollow

Files

Description

Functional cognition is critical to occupational performance but is often inconsistently assessed in occupational therapy practice. This mixed-methods study explored practitioners’ perspectives, assessment practices, and barriers across clinical settings. Findings revealed a reliance on observation over standardized, performance-based assessments, despite strong recognition of its importance. Barriers included time constraints, limited resources, and role ambiguity. Results highlight a gap between current practice and evidence-based approaches, supporting the need for increased education and improved access to practical assessment tools.

Publication Date

Spring 4-10-2026

Publisher

University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences

Keywords

Cognition, Occupational therapy

Medical Subject Headings

Cognition, Occupational therapy

Disciplines

Medicine and Health Sciences | Occupational Therapy

Comments

Poster presented at the OTD Capstone Symposium held at the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences April 10, 2026.

Recommended Citation

Card, T., Gutierrez, Z., & Giles, G. (2026, April 10). From Missed to Measured: Understanding and Elevating Functional Cognition in Occupational Therapy. Poster presented at the Virtual OTD Capstone Symposium, University of St Augustine for Health Sciences. Retrieved from https://soar.usa.edu/otdcapstonesspring2026/17