Background: Post-traumatic stress disorder often leads to ongoing sleep difficulties such as insomnia and nightmares, which can interfere with mood, concentration, and daily activities. Guided imagery, a relaxation method that uses calming, multisensory visualizations, has shown potential to improve sleep and reduce distress in people experiencing high stress or trauma. This study evaluates the effectiveness of guided imagery in improving sleep quality among young adults with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) compared to conventional occupational therapy. Objectives: To evaluate and compare the effectiveness of guided imagery and conventional occupational therapy in improving sleep quality among young adults (18-25 years) with post-traumatic stress disorder. Materials and methods: A quasi experimental design was conducted with 30 young adults aged 18-25 years, recruited through convenience sampling and divided into two groups: experimental (guided imagery intervention) and control (conventional occupational therapy). The potential of the post-traumatic stress disorder was accomplished by the diagnosis of PTSD using Clinician- Administered PTSD Scale for DSM-5, Past-Month version. Both interventions were delivered over three months, with 36 sessions held three times per week, each lasting 45 minutes. The state of sleep prior to intervention and right after the intervention was critically explained with the aid of the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI). Statistical analysis was performed to compare pre- and post-test scores within and between groups. Results: The experimental group (N=15) had a mean pre-test PSQI score of 14.40 (SD=2.41) and a post-test score of 8.73 (SD=2.05), showing a highly significant improvement (t=15.707, p=0.000). The control group (N=15) had a mean pre-test PSQI score of 14.07 (SD=1.53) and a post-test score of 13.47 (SD=1.60), also showing significant improvement (t=2.358, p=0.033). Post-test scores between the groups revealed a significantly greater improvement in the experimental group compared to the control group (t=7.050, p=0.000). Conclusion: Guided imagery was found to greatly improve sleep quality in young adults living with post-traumatic stress disorder, offering better results than conventional occupational therapy. These results highlight the value of using gentle, non-drug approaches like guided imagery to ease sleep difficulties and support overall well-being in this group.

Veterans with occupational performance limitations who are receiving inpatient psychiatric services benefit from occupational therapy. Knowledge of the factors that influence access to occupational therapy services among Veterans receiving inpatient psychiatric care in the Veterans Health Administration (VHA) is limited. To elicit providers' perspectives regarding barriers to and facilitators of accessing occupational therapy services in the VHA inpatient psychiatric setting. Semistructured qualitative interviews were conducted, and themes were identified using a descriptive-and-interpretive approach to analysis. National VHA inpatient psychiatric settings. National VHA providers and administrators (N = 16) involved in delivering inpatient psychiatric occupational therapy. Semistructured qualitative interviews designed to elicit barriers to and facilitators of accessing occupational therapy services in the VHA inpatient psychiatric setting. Interviews elicited multilevel barriers to accessing inpatient psychiatric occupational therapy, including those at the level of the patient (e.g., Veteran preference), provider (e.g., limited awareness of occupational therapy's scope of practice), and facility (e.g., occupational therapy staffing issues). Similarly, patient- (e.g., patient education), provider- (e.g., occupational therapy champions), and facility-level factors (e.g., standardized referral process) capable of promoting access to these services were identified. This study revealed multilevel determinants of accessing inpatient psychiatric occupational therapy in the VHA. The findings serve as modifiable targets of multifaceted strategies aimed at expanding access to these beneficial services and improving Veteran outcomes. Plain-Language Summary: Although emerging evidence has suggested gaps in access to inpatient psychiatric occupational therapy services in the Veterans Health Administration, knowledge regarding the specific drivers of such gaps has been limited. This study enhances our understanding of factors that shape access to these beneficial services, revealing that factors at the level of the patient (e.g., Veteran preference), provider (e.g., limited awareness of occupational therapy's scope of practice), and facility (e.g., standardized referral process) influence utilization. These findings lay the foundation for the development of multifaceted strategies that expand access to these beneficial services by enhancing practice and policy.

While physiotherapy, occupational therapy and Cesar/Mensendieck exercise therapy are considered essential in the management of multiple sclerosis (MS), little is known about how people with MS (PwMS) value these therapies across the disease course. This study explores the lived experiences and values of PwMS regarding these therapies during the lifespan with MS. In-depth interviews were conducted with a purposive sample of 23 PwMS (15 females, 8 males; median age 50 years, range 32-79; median disease duration 13 years, range 2-32). The sample size ensured a broad range of experiences with the therapies, so that in-depth and detailed meanings could be obtained for interpretative phenomenological analysis, coloured by contextual factors. PwMS highly value continuous physiotherapy and occupational therapy, especially when tailored to personal needs and disease progression. Only 7 PwMS had experiences with Cesar/Mensendieck therapy. Five key themes emerged: values related to the patient, the therapist, the patient-therapist relationship, the therapy itself, and collaboration among healthcare providers. These values are dynamic, multifaceted and interwoven, underpinning positive therapy experiences. Personal needs, goals, and the role of the therapist evolve over time, and therapies shift from general orientation to tailored interventions, empowering PwMS to make increasingly autonomous and confident decisions. Continuous, individualized physiotherapy and occupational therapy are highly valued by PwMS. Adapting therapy to their interwoven values, evolving needs and circumstances, is considered essential for optimal MS care.

Effects of non-pharmacological interventions for social participation in stroke survivors: a systematic review and network meta-analysis.

The optimal duration of occupational therapy after distal radius fracture remains uncertain. Occupational therapy practitioners focus on objective indicators such as range of motion and grip strength, whereas patients prioritize subjective daily activity difficulties. To identify objective and subjective factors influencing decisions to continue occupational therapy from therapists' and patients' perspectives. Prospective observational cohort study. Multicenter. Patients (N = 143) who underwent open reduction and internal fixation for distal radius fracture were enrolled. The number of participants analyzed at Postoperative Weeks 4, 8, 12, and 24 was 143, 138, 114, and 82, respectively, because of attrition and incomplete data. Objective assessments included range of motion and grip strength, whereas patient-reported outcomes were assessed using the Hand20 questionnaire. Therapists and patients evaluated the necessity for continued occupational therapy. Statistical analyses included Cohen's κ for agreement, Lasso regression for variable selection, and generalized linear models for significance testing. Therapists prioritized objective measures (range of motion, grip strength), whereas patients emphasized subjective difficulties with daily activities. At Postoperative Week 8, Hand20 scores significantly affected the decisions of both groups, more closely aligning with perceptions. By Postoperative Week 12, therapists reverted to objective measures, renewing discrepancies. Discrepancies exist between therapists' objective assessments and patients' subjective recovery requirements regarding therapy continuation. With limited evidence supporting therapy beyond 12 wk, integrating patient-reported outcomes into shared decision-making may enhance functional recovery and satisfaction, particularly during the first 8 wk postoperation. Plain-Language Summary: This study investigated how patients and occupational therapists decide whether to continue or discontinue therapy after a wrist fracture. Therapists focus on movement and strength, whereas patients care more about how their hand feels during daily activities. Early after surgery, their views were different; however, by 8 weeks, similarities were observed. Subsequently, differences reemerged. The results suggest that listening to patients' experiences, especially during the first 8 weeks, may improve therapy plans and recovery outcomes.

Refugee adolescents face significant barriers to daily participation, including economic hardships, health concerns, trauma, and social isolation. To explore occupational performance and the participation challenges of refugee adolescents at a youth center, using the Kawa model. Qualitative, phenomenological study using semistructured interviews and Kawa model-based visual activities. The thematic analysis was guided by Braun and Clarke's framework. Ankara Altındağ Youth Center in Ankara, Turkey. Twelve refugee adolescents (ages 10-18 yr). Participants resided in Turkey for at least 6 mo and were purposively sampled for diversity. Challenges and facilitators to occupational performance and participation were explored. Five main themes emerged: economic hardships and survival struggles, health and safety for a secure future, seeking a new life in the shadow of war, family ties between support and burden, and hopes for the future shaped by the flow of life. The Kawa model effectively illuminated the complex factors that influence the lives of refugee adolescents. Findings highlight the need for culturally sensitive, holistic occupational therapy interventions addressing both barriers and facilitators to participation. Plain-Language Summary: Using the Kawa model, this study explored the daily life challenges and hopes of refugee adolescents in Turkey. Financial issues, health and safety concerns, and past trauma were identified as major obstacles, or "rocks in their life river." Strong family ties functioned as supportive "river walls," whereas the educational journey and hopes for the future were seen as "driftwood" and "open spaces" for progress. Occupational therapy should address both difficulties and strengths to help these young people thrive. Positionality Statement: At the time of the study, the lead author (Emine Sağlamoğlu) was a research assistant and occupational therapist with experience working with disadvantaged youths. The second author (Hatice Abaoğlu) was an associate professor specializing in mental health and qualitative research. The multidisciplinary research team, possessing expertise in participation problems and occupational performance, conducted all interviews. A researcher with 10 yr of occupational therapy experience finalized the interview questions.

There is a critical need for therapeutic water competency (water safety and swim skills) interventions tailored to meet the needs of children on the autism spectrum, a group that is at high risk for drowning. To examine the effect of AquOTic on caregiver- and therapist-based water competency goals for children on the autism spectrum. Pre-post cohort design based on a larger randomized controlled trial. County Board of Developmental Disabilities therapy pool. Children on the autism spectrum (N = 37; 28 boys) ages 5 to 9 yr were recruited from the local community. AquOTic is a manualized 10-wk occupational therapy-based water competency intervention for children on the autism spectrum. AquOTic incorporates evidence-based therapeutic techniques and embeds individualized therapy (interventionist-child dyads) in a group environment. Canadian Occupational Performance Measure (COPM) and Goal Attainment Scaling (GAS) were completed at baseline and post intervention. Children showed significantly higher GAS T scores and COPM Performance and Satisfaction scores post-AquOTic compared with baseline (effect size d = 2.1-2.3). All goals mapped onto the Occupational Therapy Practice Framework (4th ed.), with motor skills emerging as the most common category for both caregiver- and therapist-derived goals, followed by safety awareness in the aquatic environment and sensory functions. Children on the autism spectrum demonstrated improved caregiver- and therapist-based water competency goals following the AquOTic intervention. Plain-Language Summary: This study examined the effect of AquOTic, an occupational therapy-based intervention, on parent/caregiver- and therapist-based goals related to water safety and swim skills among children on the autism spectrum. Caregivers identified goals for their children, and therapists developed goals that guided the intervention. After completing the 10-wk intervention, children showed improvements in both caregiver perceptions of their performance and satisfaction with goals set as well as therapist-rated goals. Our results highlight the value and effectiveness of an occupational therapy-based water competency intervention to improve water competency among children on the autism spectrum.

Early-life stressors related to war have been linked to disruptions in children's functional cognition, underscoring the need for occupational therapy practitioners to identify and address these difficulties. To compare functional cognition between cohorts of children before a global crisis and during a prolonged war and to test whether cohort differences vary by educational needs (typical vs. special). Repeated cross-sectional design. Community-based data collection. Mothers of two cohorts of second- and third-grade children: Cohort 1 (precrisis, 2016-2017; n = 129) and Cohort 2 (during war, 2024-2025; n = 190). Functional cognition was assessed with the Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Function (BRIEF) Parent Questionnaire. The BRIEF Global Executive Composite, Behavioral Regulation Index (BRI), and Metacognition Index (MI) were analyzed. After controlling for gender, age, socioeconomic status, and educational needs, children in the Cohort 2 demonstrated significantly lower functional cognition than children in Cohort 1. Multivariate analysis with cohort and educational needs as independent variables and BRI and MI as dependent variables revealed that children exposed to war and those with special educational needs had functional cognition deficits. A significant interaction between cohort and educational needs indicated that exposure to early-life stressors disproportionately affected children with special educational needs. War-related early-life stressors are associated with reduced functional cognition, particularly among children with special educational needs. The BRIEF Parent Questionnaire may serve as a practical screening measure to identify functional cognition challenges and guide pediatric occupational therapy interventions during and after crises. Plain-Language Summary: Functional cognition supports children's ability to meet the demands of their daily tasks in real-world environments, such as managing daily routines, playing, and participating in school tasks. This study examined how prolonged war-related stress affects children's functional cognition. The study compared children assessed before a global crisis with children assessed during a prolonged war, all from low socioeconomic backgrounds. Mothers reported on their children's everyday functional performance with the Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Function Parent Questionnaire. The findings showed that children exposed to ongoing war-related stress demonstrated lower functional cognition than children assessed before the war. Children with special educational needs were affected most. These findings highlight the importance of identifying functional cognition difficulties during and after crises. For occupational therapy, the results support the use of functional cognition screening in school settings to guide timely, individualized interventions that promote children's participation in daily activities and learning.

Families of autistic children with sensory needs who live in rural areas and places where in-person visits are not possible may benefit from additional therapy delivery options. To assess parents' and therapists' acceptability of a telehealth delivery of occupational therapy using Ayres Sensory Integration® (OT-ASI) and to evaluate preliminary changes in children's daily life skills and autism symptoms. One-group pilot feasibility trial. Telehealth delivery to the home environment. Families (N = 6) with children ages 4 to 12 yr, diagnosed with autism and sensory difficulties, able to follow simple directions, willing to participate in 10 telehealth sessions, willing to complete pre and post measures, and with access to Wi-Fi-enabled devices. Telehealth delivery of 10 OT-ASI sessions. Sensory feature measures included the Sensory Processing Measure and a sensory screening tool adapted from the Evaluation of Ayres Sensory Integration®. Parent measures included goal attainment scaling, Pediatric Evaluation of Disability Inventory Computer Adaptive Test, and Pervasive Developmental Disorders Behavior Inventory. The fidelity measure was adapted from the ASI® Fidelity Measure. Acceptability and feasibility were evaluated via semistructured interviews with parents and therapists. Parents and interventionists were highly satisfied with OT-ASI and indicated that it was feasible to deliver. Children improved in individualized goals and functional skills as well as socialization and showed a decrease in overall autism symptomatology. Telehealth delivery of OT-ASI is feasible and acceptable while maintaining strong fidelity. It can extend the reach and impact of occupational therapy services to autistic children and their families, particularly those facing barriers to in-person care. Plain-Language Summary: Many autistic children process or respond to sensation differently from other children, which can affect their participation in daily life activities. Occupational therapy using Ayres Sensory Integration® (OT-ASI) is an evidence-based intervention that can help these children participate more fully in daily life activities and reach personal goals. During the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic, the OT-ASI intervention was updated for online delivery. This online approach was rated by parents and interventionists as feasible and helpful. Children met goals and improved social communication and responsibility skills. More research is needed to confirm and expand on these results.

Military sexual trauma (MST) disrupts survivors' lives, affecting identity, occupational roles, and relationships. Research often focuses on psychological outcomes, but this column emphasizes the unique contributions of occupational therapy to MST recovery. Taking an approach that is grounded in occupational science and trauma-informed care, I explore how MST affects daily functioning, self-perception, and relational trust. I argue for an expanded role for occupational therapy in supporting survivors through identity reconstruction, reengagement in meaningful roles, and relational repair. By addressing the lived realities of MST, occupational therapists can foster healing, empowerment, and occupational justice within trauma-responsive care systems.

Brain-computer interfaces (BCIs) are access technologies that can improve the occupational participation of children with disabilities. The research on the experiences of pediatric BCI users and their families is currently limited. To explore experiences of pediatric BCI use and future expectations through caregiver perspectives. A qualitative, descriptive study using purposeful sampling and inductive thematic analysis. Investigator triangulation and reflexivity enhanced credibility. Zoom for Healthcare virtual platform. Fifteen parents (12 mothers and 3 fathers) of children and youth with disabilities (ages 6-18 yr; 9 females and 6 males) who participated in a recreational BCI program at a pediatric rehabilitation hospital, with the option of additional at-home BCI use, were selected via purposive sampling. In-depth, semistructured interviews were used to collect data. Three major themes emerged from the central topic of experiencing play using BCIs: (1) transformative experiences, (2) personalization for success, and (3) future hopes. By documenting family experiences with and expectations of BCIs, these findings can guide the development of BCI use in clinical and recreational programs. Occupational therapy practitioners can use the transformative potential of BCI technology to create new pathways for participation and empowerment in the lives of children and youth with disabilities. Plain-Language Summary: Children with complex disabilities often cannot take part in play and recreation. Many activities are not accessible to them. Brain-computer interface (BCI) technologies can help kids play without needing to move or speak. We asked families using BCIs about their experiences. They shared that use of a BCI empowered their child and allowed others to consider them in a new light. Some families enjoyed the programming, and others found the activities too simple over time. Many families shared that BCI headsets were uncomfortable. A better design for kids with disabilities is important. Families hope that BCIs will help kids control their environment in the future. Occupational therapists should understand how kids and families feel about using BCIs. This study helps occupational therapists learn about the benefits of BCIs in their practice and the challenges of using them.

Sensory processing disorders have been found mostly among school-age children exposed to traumatic events or after maltreatment. Therefore, it is important to examine sensory processing and emotional distress among young children exposed to traumatic events after a collective terror attack. To examine the correlation between sensory processing patterns and emotional distress among young children exposed to traumatic events after a terror attack. Cross-sectional design with purposive criterion sampling. Community. Thirty-seven children ages 2 to 7 yr, residents of the Gaza envelope (the populated areas in the Southern District of Israel within 4.3 mi of the Gaza Strip border) in Israel, who were directly affected by the events that followed the October 7, 2023, terror attack. Demographic questionnaire, the Pediatric Emotional Distress Scale (PEDS), and the Sensory Profile 2. Participants scored significantly higher than the cutoff scores for PEDS Total Score and the Anxious/Withdrawn, Fearful, and Acting Out subscales. Almost half the participants showed sensory processing patterns that were scored as "more" or "much more" than others, with sensory avoidance and sensitivity being the most prevalent. Significant correlations were found between most of the emotional distress and sensory processing patterns. Sensory processing difficulties frequently occurred and were significantly correlated with emotional distress among young children exposed to traumatic events. Occupational therapy practitioners working with children with sensory processing difficulties play a role in addressing the environmental and regulatory needs of young children affected by trauma. Plain-Language Summary: This study examined how young children ages 2 to 7 years were affected by the traumatic events after the October 7, 2023, terror attack in Israel. It focused on the correlation between emotional distress and sensory processing. Emotional distress refers to strong negative feelings that may affect how a child behaves. Among young children, it may show up as fear, anxiety or acting out. Sensory processing is how children notice, interpret, and respond to things they see, hear, touch, taste, or feel. Some children are overly sensitive and can be easily overwhelmed by sights, sounds, or textures. Others may not notice sensations that most people do, some may seek extra stimulation, and some may avoid certain sensations. The study included 37 children living near the Gaza border who directly experienced traumatic events. The results showed that many had high levels of emotional distress and sensory processing difficulties, especially sensitivity and avoidance. Emotional distress and sensory processing were correlated. The findings suggest that early childhood trauma can affect how children feel and respond to inputs in daily life. Occupational therapy practitioners can help these children by supporting their sensory needs to improve their participation in daily activities.

Military-to-civilian reintegration is a complex process shaped by psychological, social, occupational, and cultural transitions. Student Veterans often face barriers in higher education, including social isolation, competing responsibilities, and health challenges, with few structured supports. Occupational therapy practitioners can address these needs by promoting adaptation and meaningful participation. To examine reintegration needs among student Veterans and inform development of Battlefield to Playing Field, an occupational therapy-informed, leisure-based pilot program to support reintegration through social participation. University stakeholders (n = 2); military-affiliated students and community members, including family (n = 22); and military-affiliated students enrolled in university summer 2024 courses (n = 14). Stakeholder interview data and survey responses examining reintegration needs, participation barriers, and preferred leisure and social activities. Literature review and stakeholder interviews identified three domains affecting reintegration: (1) identity (re)construction and belonging, (2) participation in meaningful leisure activities, and (3) campus systems and culture. Participants expressed an interest in recreation and leisure, particularly outdoor activities, team sports, and wellness classes. Facilitators included peer support and flexible scheduling; barriers included time constraints, family obligations, health conditions, and limited awareness of opportunities. Findings highlighted the need for culturally responsive, peer-driven, leisure interventions in higher education and informed development of Battlefield to Playing Field. Plain-Language Summary: Reintegration after military service involves more than jobs or health care. Many student Veterans struggle with feelings of belonging, balancing school and family responsibilities, and reestablishing social connections. In this study, we asked Veterans, students, and families what would help. Surveys and interviews revealed that sports, outdoor activities, and group recreation can help build confidence and foster connections; however, barriers-including time constraints, family responsibilities, health issues, and a lack of awareness-limit participation. These findings helped shape Battlefield to Playing Field, a new program designed to use leisure and social participation to enhance belonging, well-being, and success for student Veterans in higher education.

Balancing physical activity, sedentary time and sleep is important for the well-being of preschoolers (3-4 years) with disabilities. Occupational Therapists (OTs) are important disseminators of the Canadian 24-Hour Movement Guidelines for the Early Years but require a resource for clinical implementation. This study aimed to co-design and assess the content validity of such a resource. Using the Framework for Co-design of Clinical Tools, five workshops were conducted with an advisory council of OTs (n = 9) and caregivers of children with disabilities (n = 5) to co-design the resource. Researchers (n = 6) consulted on the scientific integrity of the resource. Thematic analysis was used to summarize workshop data for the co-design process and examine content validity. The Early Movers Clinician's Guide, an open access resource to support OTs in using the guidelines was created. Themes reflected within the co-design process included the importance of a person-centred approach, meaningful measurement and context-driven information sharing. Participants reported positive perceptions of the resource's content validity, supporting its potential for clinical application. The Early Movers Clinician's Guide was co-designed to support OTs in translating the guidelines into practice with preschoolers with disabilities. Future research will evaluate broader implementation.

Over the past three decades, occupational therapy literature has increasingly explored how new graduate occupational therapists transition into different areas of practice. However, limited evidence exists on the facilitators and barriers influencing new graduates' ability to work effectively in paediatric practice. In Australia, more new graduate occupational therapists are working with children and families, particularly in private settings that have expanded following the introduction of the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS). In this context, understanding how new graduates develop competence is important for supporting effective practice in paediatric settings. The aim of this scoping review is to identify and synthesise the existing literature on the skills, attributes, facilitators, and barriers that influence new graduate occupational therapists' ability to work effectively with children and young people aged 0-18 years. This scoping review followed Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR) and Joanna Briggs Institute guidance. Databases were systematically searched for studies describing occupational therapists with less than three years of experience working with children and young people. One reviewer screened all titles, with independent screening of an initial sample by a second reviewer to ensure consistent interpretation of the eligibility criteria. Data were extracted using a piloted tool, and included studies were independently appraised for evidence level and quality. Findings were synthesised using conventional content analysis. This scoping review had no consumer or community involvement. Of 3040 records identified, 13 met the inclusion criteria and were included in this scoping review. Four clusters were identified: (1) preparedness for the role; (2) setting or context matters; (3) support and continuing professional development; and (4) the new graduate experience. This scoping review provides a greater understanding of the experiences of new graduate occupational therapists working with children and families, and the workforce factors that enable or hinder effective practice and transition into paediatric roles. These findings are particularly relevant to contemporary Australian paediatric practice, where the introduction of the NDIS has influenced aspects of workforce and supervision structures. Findings also highlight priorities for education, supervision, and workforce planning to support new graduate occupational therapists working with children and families.

Psychosocial impact of acne among medical, Speech and Hearing Sciences, and Occupational Therapy undergraduates at a Sri Lankan University.

Paediatric stroke (PS) is an uncommon but serious medical emergency and a major cause of long-term disability in children around the world. It affects approximately 1 in 25,000 children per year, with the incidence seen more in the neonatal period. PS is different from adult stroke in both aetiology and clinical presentation. Causes can vary from congenital heart disease, cerebral arteriopathies, to vascular malformations. Clinical features vary with age, ranging from seizures and non-specific systemic symptoms in infants to focal neurological deficits in older children, and are associated with delayed diagnosis. MRI, along with vascular imaging techniques, is the preferred diagnostic modality in children due to its superior sensitivity. Neurorehabilitation is fundamental to improving functional recovery and quality of life post-PS. The heightened neuroplasticity of the developing brain highlights the importance of early, intensive, and task-oriented rehabilitation. Emerging non-pharmacological interventions are structured physical exercise, occupational and cognitive therapy, neuromuscular electrical stimulation, robotic-assisted rehabilitation, and virtual reality. This review highlights current advances in PS management with a focus on neurorehabilitation and non-pharmacological management.

ABSTRACT This study was conducted to evaluate the effect of occupational therapy classes given to students on their attitudes toward the older adults and their levels of compassionate communication as a quasi-experimental study based on a single-group pretest-posttest model. Sixty-four students enrolled in the second year of the Elderly Care Program and receiving the occupational therapy course in the spring semester of 2023–2024 participated in the study. Pretest data were collected from students using the Socio-Demographic Information Form, Kogan’s Attitudes Toward Old People Scale (KAOPS), and Compassionate Communication Scale (CCS). At the end of the 14-week course period, the final test data were collected from the students, and the results of the study were analyzed. After completing a 14-week occupational therapy course for elderly care students, a significant increase was observed in the students’ attitudes toward the older adults and their level of compassionate communication. The pretest total mean score for the CCS was 85.93 ± 17.35, while the posttest mean score was 92.53 ± 17.65. Regarding the KAOPS results, the mean pretest score was 115.24 ± 15.57, while the mean posttest score was 155.84 ± 25.40. These differences between pretest and posttest scores were found to be statistically significant (p < .005). In particular, higher levels of compassionate communication and positive attitudes were observed in situations where students lived with older adults for long periods of time and communicated with them frequently. This finding reveals that the training provided had a positive effect on students’ attitudes toward the older adults and communication styles with older individuals. In this regard, it is of great importance to develop not only the knowledge level but also the attitudes and communication skills of students who work or will work with older people in order to improve their quality of life.

Older Adults Receive Limited Physical and Occupational Therapy Post-Stroke: A Cohort Study in the Veterans Health Administration.

This qualitative study explored stakeholder perspectives on simulation-based learning (SBL) in occupational therapy education across five European countries: Austria, Belgium, Croatia, Finland, and Turkey. The study aimed to examine the potential of SBL as a teaching, learning, and assessment methodology. A qualitative study was conducted using five focus groups, one in each participating country. Altogether, 35 stakeholders participated in the study. No consumer or community involvement was engaged in the conduction of this study nor preparation of the work. Thematic analysis of transcripts revealed four overarching themes: (1) Occupational therapy competencies best suited for SBL; (2) experiences and perceptions of SBL methodologies in occupational therapy education: Perceived educational value for competency development; (3) rationale for SBL in occupational therapy education; and (4) requirements and challenges associated with implementation of SBL, highlighting both the perceived value and the logistical, institutional, and pedagogical challenges of integrating SBL into curricula. Findings confirmed the relevance of SBL for enhancing professional competencies in occupational therapy education and offered rich, context-specific insights shaped by diverse educational and health-care systems. While the limited sample size restricts generalizability, the study provides foundational knowledge for future research and development. Importantly, it underscores the need for adequate resources, structured facilitator training, and strategic planning to ensure the successful implementation of SBL in occupational therapy education. These results contribute to a growing body of evidence supporting simulation as a transformative educational approach that bridges theory and practice, ultimately advancing occupational therapy education and professional preparedness.