Scholarship and Open Access Repository
Not a member yet
1330 research outputs found
Sort by
An OT Web-based Program for Assessing and Treating Vision Deficits in TBIs
Get PDFThis capstone project supported occupational therapists in addressing vision deficits associated with traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) through a web-based educational program. The program focused on assessment strategies, intervention techniques and strategies, and caregiver education. Guided by the Person-Environment-Occupation-Performance model and the Occupational Adaptation frame of reference, the project promoted occupational engagement and improved quality of life for individuals with vision deficits associated with TBIs and their caregivers by increasing clinicians’ confidence and knowledge.https://soar.usa.edu/otdcapstonesspring2025/1049/thumbnail.jp
An OT Program Manual for IPV Survivors Living in Transitional Housing
Get PDFThis capstone project aimed to address the financial instability and employment challenges experienced by female survivors of intimate partner violence (IPV) residing in transitional housing. Grounded in the Occupational Adaptation model, the project involved the development and implementation of a client-centered job readiness and money management program tailored to the unique needs of this population. A comprehensive literature review identified critical barriers to economic independence among IPV survivors, including economic abuse, lack of education, and limited access to resources. Through collaboration with the YWCA of Palm Beach County’s Harmony House, a six-week program was delivered, incorporating lessons on budgeting, financial safety planning, resume building, job applications, interview preparation, and banking. Data collected via pre- and post-program surveys indicated a marked improvement in participants’ financial literacy, self-confidence, and perceived independence. Despite challenges in attendance and the need for individualized delivery, participants reported high satisfaction with the program. The findings underscore the essential role of occupational therapy in empowering IPV survivors and promoting long-term self-sufficiency and well-being through holistic, skills-based interventions.https://soar.usa.edu/otdcapstonesspring2025/1046/thumbnail.jp
Occupational Therapists\u27 Perceived Benefits of Tactile-Based Interventions for Current and Former NICU Infants
No full textTherapeutic touch, including infant massage, is a key intervention occupational therapists (OTs) use to support premature infants\u27 physiological and psychological development. This capstone project explores how OTs incorporate therapeutic touch into their interventions for infants currently or recently discharged from the NICU and how they perceive its effectiveness. Through surveys of 20 participants, including NICU and outpatient OTs and caregivers, the study found that OTs strongly recognize the benefits of therapeutic touch, citing improved infant well-being and emotional regulation. However, results also revealed inconsistencies in caregiver education, engagement, and access to resources, which may limit the consistent application of these techniques. Despite a small sample size and reliance on self-reported data, the study highlights the importance of standardized education and clinical support for therapists and caregivers. An educational booklet was developed to address these gaps and promote more effective integration of therapeutic touch into neonatal care practices.https://soar.usa.edu/otdcapstonesspring2025/1044/thumbnail.jp
The Benefits of Music in Occupational Therapy for Individuals with Dementia
No full textAlzheimer’s disease is the most common cause of dementia in older adults, leading to progressive declines in memory, behavior, and daily functioning. Music interventions, whether live or recorded, have been shown to improve mood, reduce agitation, and enhance quality of life for individuals with dementia by fostering emotional connection and relaxation. The Model of Human Occupation supports these interventions by addressing volition, routines, and performance skills, helping therapists create meaningful, structured strategies to improve daily living and engagement.https://soar.usa.edu/otdcapstonessummer2025/1006/thumbnail.jp
Occupational Therapy for Individuals with Low Vision Affecting their Mental Health
No full textLow vision is a prevalent public health issue among older adults, often leading to functional limitations, reduced participation in activities of daily living (ADLs), and increased risk of mental health challenges such as depression, anxiety, and social isolation. This capstone project explored the relationship between low vision and mental health by developing and evaluating a program to address both functional and psychosocial needs. Guided by the Person-Environment-Occupation (PEO) model, the program was implemented at Envision Dallas and included a needs assessment, tailored strategies, and group activities targeting emotional well-being, independence, and social participation. Data from surveys, interviews, and observation indicated that participants experienced improved mood, increased engagement, and greater confidence in daily activities. Findings support the role of OT in delivering holistic interventions that integrate physical rehabilitation with psychosocial support to enhance quality of life for older adults with low vision.https://soar.usa.edu/otdcapstonessummer2025/1015/thumbnail.jp
Harmony in Motion: An Adaptive Dance Program for Enhancing Motor Skills and Social Engagement in Children with Down Syndrome
No full textHarmony in Motion is an occupational therapy–inspired adaptive dance program designed to create inclusive, sensory-friendly ballet experiences for children with disabilities, including those with Down syndrome. Through tailored movement activities, environmental modifications, and the use of adaptive props, the program promotes participation, social connection, and self-expression.https://soar.usa.edu/otdcapstonessummer2025/1011/thumbnail.jp
Use of Motivational Interviewing to Increase Compliance in Therapy to Improve Work and Education Preparation for At-Risk and Underserved Youth
No full textAt-risk and underserved youth often face barriers to educational attainment, employment, and psychosocial well-being, which can limit their long-term occupational engagement. This doctoral capstone project implemented an eight-week, occupational therapy–informed program at R.I.S.E. Homes in Las Vegas, Nevada, integrating the Model of Human Occupation (MOHO) and Motivational Interviewing (MI) frameworks. The program aimed to enhance life skills, emotional regulation, conflict resolution, and career readiness among youth in transitional living. Using a trauma-informed, client-centered approach, sessions combined didactic instruction, interactive activities, and role-play to foster skill acquisition and self-efficacy. Outcomes were measured through pre- and post-program self-assessments and qualitative feedback from participants and staff. Results indicated improved self-reported emotional regulation, communication skills, and confidence in job-seeking behaviors. Findings support the role of occupational therapy in community-based, psychosocial interventions and highlight the potential for sustainable, multi-disciplinary collaborations to address the needs of at-risk youth.https://soar.usa.edu/otdcapstonessummer2025/1017/thumbnail.jp
Applying Trauma-Informed Care Principles for Adolescents that are Transitioning to College and Work-Life: An Educational Workshop
No full textTrauma can impact an individual’s ability to function in daily occupations and tasks (SAMHSA, 2014). Traumainformed care focuses on six principles in order to support individuals who have experienced trauma: safety; trustworthiness and transparency; peer support; collaboration and empowerment; choice; and cultural, historical, and gender sensitivity (SAMHSA, 2014). Incorporating these principles allows trauma-informed care to shift the focus from “what is wrong with you?” to “what happened to you?” (Sweeney et al., 2018). This focus allows for a client-centered approach to best assist individuals to address their trauma. 62% of adolescents have been exposed to at least one lifetime traumatic event and 19% have been exposed to three or more traumatic events (Darnell et al., 2019). Mental health concerns may have negative impacts on adolescents’ academics, interactions, self-regulation, and coping mechanisms.https://soar.usa.edu/otdcapstonessummer2025/1007/thumbnail.jp
Increasing Implementation of the Comfortable Cafeteria Program to Promote School-Age Children’s Mental Health and Well-Being
No full textEvery Moment Counts (EMC) is a positive mental health promotion initiative that offers several initiatives to create inclusive environments that support student participation and emotional well-being throughout the school day. Comfortable Cafeteria, part of EMC, fosters positive mealtime experiences supporting peer interaction, emotional regulation, and inclusion. Many SBOT practitioners lack the resources to implement Comfortable Cafeteria, despite its benefits. This capstone project addresses the need for practical tools to help school-based occupational therapy (SBOT) practitioners integrate the Comfortable Cafeteria program into daily practice. Using the Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) framework, the project developed and disseminated an interactive, evidence-based video module designed to promote positive mealtime experiences, peer interaction, emotional regulation, and inclusion in school cafeterias. The module provides self-paced learning, real-life implementation examples, and downloadable resources to enhance practitioner competency. By equipping SBOT practitioners with accessible, adaptable strategies, this work aims to improve children’s participation, mental health, and overall well-being, while supporting long-term adoption of Every Moment Counts initiatives.https://soar.usa.edu/otdcapstonessummer2025/1022/thumbnail.jp
The Professional and Occupational Identities of NICU Occupational Therapists
No full textOccupational therapists in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) provide specialized care, including infant positioning, feeding, handling techniques, and anticipatory guidance. While the American Occupational Therapy Association has outlined the role, little research has explored how therapists perceive their own occupational and professional identities in this highly specialized setting. This study explored the perspectives of NICU occupational therapists to better understand how their roles and identities are shaped within the NICU environment. A mixed-methods descriptive design was used. Data was collected through an electronic survey including Likert-scale and open-ended questions, with optional 30-minute follow-up interviews. Snowball and convenience sampling were used through social media outlets, occupational therapy discussion forums, and professional contacts. Quantitative data was analyzed using descriptive statistics; qualitative responses were examined using thematic analysis following Braun and Clarke’s six-phase process (2021). Eighteen occupational therapists working in the NICU completed the survey, and four participated in follow-up interviews. Thematic analysis revealed four overarching themes: emotional labor and motivational factors, identity development in the NICU context, navigating and defining the OT role, and systemic and cultural influences. Quantitative data supported the themes by showing significant statistical correlations between feelings of pressure to conform, professional identity, sense of value on the team, and strength of occupational identity, which revealed key professional identity patterns. Professional identity in the NICU is shaped by emotional labor, dynamic personal values, and interdisciplinary challenges. Identity is lived, not static, and evolves through experience. Role ambiguity and systemic barriers affect clarity and support. Findings highlight the need for advocacy, role definition, and stronger structural supports to reinforce NICU OT identity.https://soar.usa.edu/otdcapstonessummer2025/1024/thumbnail.jp