Facilitating Occupational Participation in Older Adults with Chronic Pain

Author

• Emily K. Ruesch, University of South DakotaFollow

Date of Award

Summer 8-2026

Document Type

Oral Presentation/Poster

Degree Name

Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD)

Department

Health Science

Faculty Mentor

Ranelle Nissen, PhD, OTR/L

Keywords

Occupational therapy, chronic pain management, holistic care

Subject Categories

Movement and Mind-Body Therapies | Occupational Therapy | Somatic Bodywork and Related Therapeutic Practices

Abstract

This capstone project developed doctoral-level clinical skills in the management of chronic pain. This capstone project also implemented a six‑week chronic pain management program for independent community‑dwelling older adults at Dow Rummel Village. Eleven adults aged 50–95 participated in weekly 45‑minute group sessions addressing adaptive equipment use, graded exercise, energy conservation, nervous system regulation, stress management, and sleep hygiene. Seven participants completed pre‑ and post‑intervention measures using the Brief Pain Inventory–Short Form and the Pain Self‑Efficacy Questionnaire. A paired samples t‑test assessed changes in pain severity, pain interference, and self‑efficacy. Results demonstrated a decrease in pain severity (t(6) = −3.96, p = .007), negative trend in pain interference (t(6) = −0.703, p = .51), and upward trend in participant self-efficacy (t(6) = 1.92, p = .10). Participants also reported improved understanding of pain, greater confidence in activity engagement, and increased use of self‑management strategies. These findings suggest that occupational therapy interventions grounded in the biopsychosocial model and Ecology of Human Performance framework can enhance self‑efficacy and support occupational participation for older adults with chronic pain (European Pain Federation, 2026; Engel, 1980). Continued program refinement, expanded recruitment, and longer program duration may strengthen future outcomes and further validate occupational therapy’s role in chronic pain management.

Recommended Citation

Ruesch, Emily K., "Facilitating Occupational Participation in Older Adults with Chronic Pain" (2026). Occupational Therapy Capstone Presentations. 187.
https://red.library.usd.edu/ot-capstone/187