Primary Speaker Research Articles

Impact of a Cancer Survivorship Program on Well-Being and Community Involvement: Role of OT and Future Directions

Abstract Date Presented Accepted for AOTA INSPIRE 2021 but unable to be presented due to online event limitations. This qualitative phenomenology explored the lived experiences of cancer survivors in a community-based, interprofessional survivorship program and explains further exploration for inclusion of OT. Personal themes describing impact on the individuals included (1) journey of spiritual and emotional healing, (2) growing into a new sense of self, and (3) moving from survival to life. Relational themes included (1) building a community of caring and connection and (2) embracing the value of altruism. Primary Author and Speaker: Lynne Murphy Additional Authors and Speakers: Kendall Ellis, Nicole Fox, Sarah Lee, Rachel Lennon, and Gloria Norton

OT Discharge Recommendations After Acute Stroke: Agreement Between Interprofessional Recommendations and Actual Discharge Setting

Abstract Date Presented Accepted for AOTA INSPIRE 2021 but unable to be presented due to online event limitations. In acute care, discharge planning is a primary role of OT for clients with arm impairment after stroke. Discharge planning accounts for many factors, including impairments, function, social supports, insurance, and the input of other disciplines. This research aimed to (1) determine the agreement in discharge recommendations between OT and physical therapy during acute hospitalization and (2) determine the agreement of OT recommendation and actual discharge setting for clients with arm impairment after stroke. Primary Author and Speaker: Nicole C. Lam Contributing Authors: Kimberly Erler, Jessica Ranford, Jessica D. Asiello, Kimberly Cortina, Natasha Frazier, Abigail Rude, Caitlin Sadlak, Helena Thorne, Rachel Collins, Erin E. Donovan, Sarah Norris, and David Lin

Sensory Processing Preferences for People Recovering From Addictions

Abstract Date Presented 04/7/21 A descriptive study using the Adolescent/Adult Sensory Profile compared the scores of people recovering from addiction with the profile scores of the normative sample and found a preference for sensation avoiding among people recovering from addiction. This knowledge indicates a need for sensory-informed interventions to enhance self-regulation and occupational performance in home, work, and community environments for people recovering from addictions. Primary Author and Speaker: Catana Brown Additional Authors and Speakers: Julie L. Watson Contributing Authors: Jennifer O'Connor Duffy

A Strengths-Based Cognitive Approach to Enhancing Occupational Performance and Self-Efficacy in Individuals With Schizophrenia

Abstract Date Presented 04/19/21 People with schizophrenia have daily living challenges related to impaired cognitive skills and low self-efficacy. This study used the Model of Human Occupation Screening Tool (MOHOST) in a single-case design with multiple baselines (N = 5) to investigate a strengths-based intervention for people with schizophrenia. Visual and statistical analyses yielded a small intervention effect (d = 0.26) and relationships among cognitive variables and MOHOST domains. Participants reported increased self-confidence and occupational engagement. Primary Author and Speaker: Christine A. Linkie Additional Authors and Speakers: Karen Ratcliff, Ickpyo Hong

Perceived Benefits of Counseling Provided to First Responders Through the Officer Craig Tiger Act

Abstract Date Presented 04/22/21 The purpose of this cross-sectional study is to examine the perceived benefits of licensed counseling through the perspective of first responders. OTs can use this study to guide their practice when working with first responders. OT can assist first responders with adapting their exercise routine in the event of physical injury and assist them with returning to work after a mental health crisis. Primary Author and Speaker: Matthew Wittwer Additional Authors and Speakers: Rawan Alheresh Contributing Authors: Bria Mitchell-Gillespie, Megan Griffin, and Rawan Alheresh

Yoga Intervention for Fall Prevention in Rural-Dwelling Seniors

Abstract Date Presented 04/200/21 Rural-dwelling older adults experience health care disparities and limited access to physical activity programming. The purpose of this study was to examine fall-related outcomes following a 12-week yoga intervention designed for rural older adults. Significant improvements in the Canadian Occupational Performance Measure and MiniBESTest were observed, suggesting that yoga could be an appropriate and accessible strategy for addressing fall prevention and occupational performance in rural-dwelling older adults. Primary Author and Speaker: Alicia Oestreich Additional Authors and Speakers: Julia Bieber, Christine Auriemma, Casey Flanigan, Hannah Frolli, Maria McGloin, Meghan O'Brien, Emma Oliver, and Tara Schorr

Effectiveness of Community-Based OT Mental Health Services for At-Risk Adolescents: A Systematic Review

Abstract Date Presented Accepted for AOTA INSPIRE 2021 but unable to be presented due to online event limitations. At-risk adolescents tend to be of low socioeconomic status or have been in juvenile detention, which affects their mental health, leading to a decrease in occupational participation and performance. This systematic review examines the participation of at-risk adolescents in community-based OT mental health services and its positive impact on occupational engagement. Research within this scope of practice can yield more effective, evidence-based, and client-centered interventions. Primary Author and Speaker: Levana Tabanpour Contributing Authors: Angeli Gutierrez, Alyssa Mercado, and Rachel Munyon

Antibullying Interventions for Autistic Students: A Systematic Review

Abstract Date Presented Accepted for AOTA INSPIRE 2021 but unable to be presented due to online event limitations. As part of the school health team, OTs should implement antibullying interventions, because bullying has a significant impact on students' participation in school occupations. The purpose of this systematic review was to examine interventions to reduce school bullying of students with autism. Social–emotional learning and social skills training interventions were found to be the most effective in decreasing bullying. Primary Author and Speaker: Janet Njelesani Additional Authors and Speakers: Christina M. Samaan

Differences in Reading Achievement Between Occupation-Based Intervention Strategies Versus Standard Reading Intervention in Elementary-Age Students

Abstract Date Presented 04/23/21 The purpose of this study is to determine the impact of a literacy-focused OT intervention program on reading engagement and reading achievement in elementary-school-age children. Children who develop functional literacy skills will have the ability to further their education and vocational goals. This concerns the field of OT because it is our mission to facilitate the skills needed for all people to engage in their occupational roles. Primary Author and Speaker: Turquessa Francis

Inpatient Rehabilitation Facility Data Comparing Swallowing Status Between Primary Dysphagia and Poststroke Dysphagia: A Retrospective Study

Abstract Date Presented 04/22/21 This study was a retrospective cohort design that used data from the U.S. Uniform Data System for Medical Rehabilitation. We examined the improvement of swallowing status between patients with primary dysphagia diagnosis and those with poststroke dysphagia upon discharge from inpatient rehabilitation facilities. A main finding includes that patients with a primary dysphagia diagnosis demonstrated substantially worse swallowing status compared to those with poststroke dysphagia. Primary Author and Speaker: Kimberly Hreha Additional Authors and Speakers: Bailee Cloutier, Zana A. McNeil, Erin Pyles, and Breanna Trueblood Contributing Authors: Sharon Cosper

Portraits of Joy: The Lived Experiences of Young Adults With Autism Expressed Through Photovoice

Abstract Date Presented Accepted for AOTA INSPIRE 2021 but unable to be presented due to online event limitations. For young adults and adults with autism, the outcomes related to independence, social relationships, employment status, and living arrangements have been poor. This session will share research using PhotoVoice to explore the lived experience of young adults with autism in a community-based independent-living residence. Challenges and opportunities for independence as seen through photos and reflections on the OT role will be shared. Primary Author and Speaker: Paula J. Thompson-Costello Additional Authors and Speakers: Mackenzie Traub, Eleanor Sweeney, Mallory Schrier, and Hannah R. Dau

Stroke Survivor Recommendations for Physical Activity and Dietary Health Behavior Intervention

Abstract Date Presented Accepted for AOTA INSPIRE 2021 but unable to be presented due to online event limitations. Physical activity and dietary-related behaviors are important for enhancing health and quality of life among adults with stroke, yet the prevalence of these healthy behaviors is low. In this qualitative study, adults with stroke identified how stroke-related physical, cognitive, and sensory deficits impact performance of these healthy behaviors and identified specific adaptive and accessible equipment and compensatory strategies for overcoming these barriers that can be utilized in clinical practice. Primary Author and Speaker: Ryan Bailey Contributing Authors: Jennifer Stevenson

A User-Driven Wearable Hand Robot for Functional Task Training After Stroke

Abstract Date Presented Accepted for AOTA INSPIRE 2021 but unable to be presented due to online event limitations. Regaining adequate hand function for participation is a challenge for many stroke survivors. Eleven participants completed 12 grasp–transport–release training sessions with a user-driven hand robot that provides active assist for finger extension. A mean gain of 2.64 points (p = .03) on the Fugl–Meyer was observed, with most gains on the distal subscale (2.27 points, p < .001). This intervention is a promising adjunct to conventional therapy to promote typical grasp patterns and functional use. Primary Author and Speaker: Michaela Fraser Additional Authors and Speakers: Daniel Geller Contributing Authors: Sangwoo Park, Lynne Weber, Cassie Meeker, Lauri Bishop, Joel Stein, and Matei Ciocarlie

Building Parent Capacity and Child Well-Being in Early Intervention Playgroups: A Mixed-Methods Study of Knowledge Translation Through Collaboration

Abstract Date Presented Accepted for AOTA INSPIRE 2021 but unable to be presented due to online event limitations. This study explored the effectiveness of playgroups as part of comprehensive early intervention services using a team-based approach. OTs have a unique role in fostering an inclusive environment in which children participate in play while interacting with their parent and peers. Results from this mixed-methods study indicate that playgroups have potential to build parent competence, increase parent responsiveness, and support the social–emotional development of the child. Primary Author and Speaker: Sarah Fabrizi

Sensory Modulation in Children Exposed to Continuous Traumatic Stress

Abstract Date Presented Accepted for AOTA INSPIRE 2021 but unable to be presented due to online event limitations. A comparison between children with and without posttraumatic stress (PTS) symptoms found that children with PTS symptoms are at increased risk for sensory processing deficits in various sensory modalities, over and above the core symptoms of posttraumatic stress disorder. These results emphasize that sensory processing should be incorporated into the routine evaluation of this population and point to the importance of OT trauma-informed intervention programs, emphasizing the sensory component of regulation. Primary Author and Speaker: Aviva Yochman

Is Sensory Modulation Disorder a Risk Factor for Female Sexual Dysfunction?

Abstract Date Presented Accepted for AOTA INSPIRE 2021 but unable to be presented due to online event limitations. Individuals with female sexual dysfunction (FSD) were found to be at increased risk for sensory over-responsivity across sensory modalities. OTs provide services for a variety of diagnostic populations with sexual dysfunction and should expand their unique role to include individuals with co-occurring FSD and sensory modulation disorder, by incorporating sensory processing into the routine evaluation and providing sensory strategies to facilitate satisfying sexual functioning. Primary Author and Speaker: Aviva Yochman Contributing Authors: Mijal Luria, Hadas Noy-Nota

Parent Education Class for Children With Feeding Difficulties

Abstract Date Presented Accepted for AOTA INSPIRE 2021 but unable to be presented due to online event limitations. The purpose of this study was to determine the feasibility and effectiveness of a multidisciplinary educational class for parents in improving child feeding behaviors and reducing caregiver distress associated with feeding difficulties. This class has proven to be effective in educating parents about the intricate and dynamic nature of feeding per positive responses on Behavioral Pediatrics Feeding Assessment Scale, Parent Mealtime Action Scale, and parent survey. Primary Author and Speaker: Adina P. Schwartz Additional Authors and Speakers: Judy Hopkins

Cross-Cultural Comparison of the Participation at Home, at School, and in the Community of Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder in the US and Taiwan

Abstract Date Presented Accepted for AOTA INSPIRE 2021 but unable to be presented due to online event limitations. The aim of this study was to explore cross-cultural differences in the participation levels of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in different settings (home, school, and the community). The findings indicated that children with ASD in the United States tend to have more resources and support than those in Taiwan. This study will enable OTs and researchers to better understand the differences between Western and Eastern countries. Primary Author and Speaker: Chiao-Ju Fang Additional Authors and Speakers: Deborah Yun, Melissa M. Wong Contributing Authors: Thanh Nguyen, Susan Pfeffer

Validation of an Ergonomic Assessment Tool for Dental Hygienists

Abstract Date Presented Accepted for AOTA INSPIRE 2021 but unable to be presented due to online event limitations. Although multiple robust ergonomics tools are available to assess postural risk, these tools are often too general and do not consider nuances of specific jobs. This study examined the concurrent validity of a postural assessment tool tailored to dental professionals. Findings provide support for use of this tool to assess risk and identify areas for intervention by OT practitioners. Primary Author and Speaker: Samantha Randolph Additional Authors and Speakers: Jody Liu Contributing Authors: Shawn C. Roll, Jacquelyn Dylla

Effective Parent Interventions to Increase Parental Knowledge of Child Development: A Systematic Review

Abstract Date Presented 04/13/21 Parental lack of knowledge of typical child development hinders children’s ability to receive early intervention in a timely manner. Improving parents’ understanding of typical developmental milestones can help decrease disparities in parent knowledge and identification of their child’s developmental delays. This poster will identify parent interventions to increase knowledge of child development so that parents can seek the appropriate professional help for their children. Primary Author and Speaker: Shanteria Carr Additional Authors and Speakers: Stephanie Munson, Lisa Mische Lawson