Occupational Therapy - Student Work

Permanent URI for this collectionhttps://hdl.handle.net/11274/39

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Adaptive Activities and Community Participation for the Cerebral Palsy Population
(2024) McCabe, Emily
This project focused on enhancing the quality of life of individuals with cerebral palsy through the implementation of an annual Cerebral Palsy Awareness Month community event. The doctoral capstone student partnered with CPATH Texas, a non-profit organization serving the cerebral palsy community in Austin, TX , to establish the program. The event included a variety of adaptive activities to promote participation among all abilities, and numerous local organizations held resource tables to connect families with beneficial financial, medical, or social resources. A post-event survey indicated an increased sense of community and social support, as well as the following perceived benefits: connecting with local resources, raising cerebral palsy awareness, and connecting with other families in similar situations. The results of this project emphasize the importance of community programs on the social and emotional well-being of the cerebral palsy population through increased occupational engagement.
Adaptive Dance: Vital Components of adaptive dance programs for children with disabilities
(2024) Haut, Taylor
Through an extensive literature review, I created an adaptive dance protocol that could be used for children with disabilities. The protocol was approved by IRB and used in research for children with cerebral palsy.
Addressing Barriers to Occupational Participation Among Low-Income LGBTQIA+ Older Adults: An Occupation-Based Health & Wellness Program
(2024) Speck, Alexander C.
A health and wellness program developed to improve health and wellness outcomes among low-income LGBTQIA+ older adults. This occupation-based program provided participants with strategies for prevention and management of fall risk, fatigue, and pain.
Addressing Occupational Participation at the End of Life and Development of Restorative Therapy Program
(2024) Place, Emily
The purpose of this capstone project was to create intervention suggestions and guidelines that can be used by occupational therapists, other paid or unpaid personnel, and/or care providers working with patients approaching the end of their lives. This included general suggestions based on common areas of need that may be found when evaluating a client who is facing the end of their life. The student also created a guide for restorative therapy with easy-to-follow guidelines and suggestions for nurse aides to help patients maintain therapy gains after discharge.
Addressing the Occupational Needs of Immigrant Children: A Pediatric Program
(2024) Lee, Caitlin
Immigrant children are a deeply underserved population in the U.S., even though they comprise over a quarter of the pediatric population. Not only that, they face life-altering changes and challenges in their life, which negatively affects their participation in occupation. Despite their complex occupational therapy needs, there is a dearth of literature regarding the role of OT with immigrant children in the U.S. To address this problem, this capstone project aims to address this gap by providing resources, strategies, & education for the immigrant pediatric population through program development. The capstone student partnered with the Agape Clinic, a non-profit healthcare center, to develop occupation-based programming for their patients. The end product was a comprehensive, educational manual intended to educate caregivers and staff members of the occupational and mental health needs of immigrant children. Overall, the outcomes of the manual were found to have a positive impact on the clinic and future pediatric patients. More programs like these are needed to meet the occupational needs of immigrant children. It is important that OT practitioners grow experiences with this population to create culturally competent, effective, and client-centered interventions.
Addressing the Risks of Musculoskeletal Discomfort and Disorders in University Students through Ergonomics
(2024) Nguyen, Olivia
As university students use their computers (laptops and desktops) or other devices, such as tablets and smartphones, to engage in school-related activities, they are at risk of developing musculoskeletal discomfort and disorders (MSDs) which can disrupt participation in their occupation of education. The OTD student will develop ergonomics-based educational resources for TWU students to address the risks and consequences of MSDs. These resources will come in three different formats making them easily accessible to the students; there will be handouts, brochures, and a video. The purpose of these educational resources is to increase students’ knowledge and awareness of ergonomics to promote health and well-being, leading to continued occupational engagement in their roles as university students.
Advocacy and Research for Technological Advancements in Prosthetic Devices
(2024) Smithinsky, Brynn
This abstract encapsulates a study focused on addressing the discomfort experienced by users of prosthetic devices through the integration of electromagnets. This capstone project employs a condensed scoping review methodology to explore the challenges faced by users with current prosthetic systems, the potential of electromagnets to mitigate these challenges, and factors influencing their implementation. The review highlights the potential benefits of electromagnets and sensor gauges in enhancing comfort, control, and usability for prosthetic users, aiming to push the boundaries of prosthetic innovation. By examining the impact of electromagnetics, strain gauges, and other sensor outputs on the efficacy of a proposed lower limb prosthesis design, the study seeks to contribute to advancing prosthetic technology and laying the groundwork for future research and development in the field. Through a deliberate focus on unmet needs and technological advancement, the study aspires to bridge the gap between individuals with limb differences and their able-bodied counterparts, ultimately aiming to enhance their holistic well-being and quality of life.
An Analysis of Scottish Rite for Children's Learn to Golf Program
(2024) Alexander, Ariel
An analysis of Scottish Rite for Children's Learn to Golf program revealed 5 overall themes. 1) Learn to Golf (LTG) provides opportunity for community and connection. 2) Facilitators and barriers to participation in the LTG program. Participants identified facilitators and barriers to engage in the LTG program including expert teaching, scholarship funds, equipment, time, distance, and participant health. 3)Program is inclusive of all activity levels. 4) Program provides new opportunities and promotes wellbeing. 5)Program structure and leadership are core components of the LTG program's success.
Analysis of Inpatient Rehabilitation Interventions and Impact on Recovery Trajectory for Disorders of Consciousness (DoC) Patients
(2024) Scott, Stephanie
This capstone project aims to develop research skills to describe inpatient rehabilitation interventions and impact of verticalization on the trajectory of recovery for disorders of consciousness (DoC) patients. Many DoC are the result of a traumatic brain injury, however causes include: cardiovascular failure, progressive degenerative diseases, or metabolic diseases (Pistarini & Maggioni, 2021). Occupational therapists aim to deliver effective rehabilitation by improving arousal and awareness (Ng & King, 2021). However, there is limited evidence describing effective treatments (Weaver, Watters, & Cogan, 2021). Verticalization is a promising treatment for DoC patients and mobilizes patients into upright position using equipment such as tilt tables (Krewer et al., 2015). A retroactive sample of 24 adult DoC patients at TIRR Memorial Hermann DoC Program in Houston in 2022 was used. Quantitative data was compiled from demographics, functional status, Coma Recovery Score-revised (CRS-R) scores, and weekly treatment interventions. There was a positive significant correlation between time and CRS-R score, but no significant statistical correction between number of verticalizations and CRS-R score. Limitations in variability in length of stay, number of CRS-R scores, inconsistent documentation of verticalization minutes, blood pressure instability, and lost therapy minutes could have impacted correlation results. There is an opportunity in the future to mitigate these variables and test for impact of verticalization on CRS-R scores. Further research regarding the type of equipment used for verticalization could provide accessibility for continued improvement in arousal and awareness after discharge.
Caregiver Burden in Caregivers of Children Diagnosed with Cancer: Comprehensive Educational Resources
(2024) Ellis, Cassidy
This Capstone project focused on caregiver burden in caregivers of children diagnosed with cancer. The aims of the project were to improve education on caregiver burden and access to reliable, evidence-based resources for the target population. The student completed a literature review of current research and a needs assessment through surveys of caregivers and health care professionals at the Capstone site. The final deliverables the student created include a comprehensive educational website and infographic for caregivers of children with cancer.
Caregiver Education Development to Promote Confidence and Skill Generalization in the Pediatric Outpatient Setting
(2024) Bowles, Sarah
A digital educational resource was created for the parents/caregivers of a pediatric outpatient clinic in order to attempt to increase caregiver confidence in practicing and promoting their child's skill carryover outside of the clinic. Literature shows that caregivers would like to be more involved with their child's therapy goals and outcomes, however they have limited access/pathways currently for training and education. This resource was created to bridge the gap between the known success of family-centered care and a starting access point to it for caregivers.
Caregivers Supporting Caregivers
(2024) De La Torre III, Joe
For caregivers of a child with complex medical needs, caregiver support is needed to mediate feelings of isolation and lack of social participation in order to increase quality of life. This capstone project explored meeting the social needs of caregivers by creating a caregiver support group protocol and peer-led facilitator training protocol to launch a caregiver support group with Families for HoPE, a non-profit organization providing resources for families with children with holoprosencephaly.
Combat the Symptoms: A Community Group for People with Parkinson's Disease
(2024) Campos, Melissa
A community group developed and implemented at Rock Steady Boxing Dallas for people with Parkinson's Disease aiming to improve quality of life (QoL) and provide a sense of community and support. The class focused on the following areas: balance, activities of daily living, fine motor skills, and cognition.
Comforting Touch as a Co-Occupation Between Hospice-Care Clients and Their Caregivers
(2024) Sajan, Sheba
Patients in hospice undergo occupational challenges daily, and occupational therapists are underutilized in this setting due to a misunderstanding of occupational therapy’s (OT) role in end-of-life care. One way that OTs can allow these clients to live with dignity before death is through the use of a comforting touch program. Comforting touch is meant to be used as a non-strenuous means to still enjoy worthwhile companionship with their loved ones. The OT doctoral student created a 4-week comforting touch program as their capstone project to be implemented with a hospice-care client and their caregiver. The student adapted the Relative Mastery Measurement Scale (RMMS) as a pre/post-survey to assess the caregiver’s level of efficiency, efficacy, and satisfaction. Results showed an increase in both factors at the conclusion of the program. Though the program showed a positive increase in these metrics, the program would need to be further explored. Limitations of the study include a small sample size due to time constraints and a low amount of participants that fulfill program criteria.
DANCE! Measuring an Adaptive Dance Program with an Occupational Therapy Lens and a Focus on ICF Domains: A Case Report
(2024) De Leon, Rachael
With an emphasis on ICF domains and use of an occupational therapy lens this doctoral capstone project aimed to: 1) Bridge the gap in research for how an adaptive dance program impacts upper extremity. 2) Investigate how an adaptive dance program is measured. 3) Conduct a feasibility quasi-experimental mixed-method study with clinical assessments completed pre and post intervention to determine the feasibility, impact of the intervention, and use of outcome measures. Outcome measures used in this study were the modified ashworth scale, the pediatric balance test, 6 minute walk test, BOT - 2 subtests 4 and 7, quality of upper extremity skills test, cerebral palsy quality of life, child and adolescent scale of participation as well as a post assessment semi-structured interview. Three qualitative themes were identified. The results of this study found that the outcome measures chosen to measure changes following the adaptive dance program intervention were sensitive enough to detect changes to the ICF domains of body functions, activities and participation. In addition, this capstone project concluded that adaptive dance used as a therapeutic intervention for children with cerebral palsy improved motor coordination, balance, endurance and perceived quality of life.
Denton Senior Center Arthritis Activity Group: Finding the Effectiveness of an Occupation-Based Community Group for Adults with Arthritis
(2024) Quintanar, Madeline
Arthritis is a chronic disease of the joints that is the cause of disability for millions of Americans and those across the globe. It imposes functional challenges and hinders individuals from living as they desire. A community group was developed to help a diverse population of older adults with many forms of arthritis, including inflammatory and autoimmune types. The Denton Senior Center (DSC) Arthritis Activity Group aimed to improve self-management of arthritis symptoms in older adults. The program focused on three components being health education, exercise, and occupation-based activity and aimed to improve individuals’ participation and functional performance. The program spanned over nine weeks and covered topics such as energy conservation, exercise techniques, fall prevention, adaptive equipment, and more. To test program effectiveness pre and post testing was completed and included four standardized outcome measures. Five supplemental surveys were used to make the program specific to the population of the Denton Senior Center. Overall, significant improvements were seen in functional performance through the Patient-Specific Functional Scale (PSFS) which concluded 84% of participants improved in at least one self-reported activity by three or more points.
Developing a Comprehensive Assistive Technology Guide for Patients with ALS
(2024) Parker, Amy
With input from patients, caregivers, and members of the ALS care team, I created a resource that details a variety of assistive technology that can be used to aid patients with a myriad of challenges to improve their overall functional independence and sense of autonomy. My agency mentor and I also presented a lecture on ALS, OT's role in treating patients with ALS, as well as a demonstration on power wheelchairs with alternative drive systems to the 2026 OTD cohort at TWU. The ALS AT Guide is set to be posted on the Houston Methodist ALS Clinic website for use by patients worldwide.
Development of Executive Functioning for Employment Readiness in Post Secondary Education and Programs for Adults with Down Syndrome
(2024) Chavarria, Julia
This capstone experience targeted executive functioning skill developmental alongside employment preparedness activities for individuals with Down syndrome during their education programs. The outcome of this Capstone experience facilitates increased independence in work occupations for the growing population of adults with Down syndrome.
Educating Parents of Children With Down Syndrome Through Occupational Therapy Videos
(2024) Peralta, Alexa
The capstone project involves the creation of videos that provide education on occupational therapy content for parents to implement at home for their child with Down syndrome. My goal was to increase knowledge and accessibility to occupational therapy, and to provide training on how parents can implement evidence-based OT interventions with their child at home. These videos can empower parents with the knowledge to promote and instill a sense of independence for their child with Down syndrome.
Educational Content Related to Feeding Difficulties in Children with Autism and Other Developmental Disabilities
(2024) Sparks, Emily
This project's aim was to create educational resources for parents and caregivers who have a child that is experiencing a feeding difficulty. Specifically, this project focused on children with Autism and other developmental disabilities. The goal of this project was to provide education in order to decrease stress at mealtimes. The student paired with Greater Heights Pediatric Therapy for mentorship and collaboration.

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