Date of Award
Spring 5-2025
Document Type
Oral Presentation/Poster
Degree Name
Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD)
Department
Health Science
Faculty Mentor
Dr. Mackenzie Feldhacker
Keywords
assistive technology, seating and mobility, neurological conditions, neuromuscular conditions
Subject Categories
Occupational Therapy
Abstract
Assistive technology has the potential to have a positive impact on quality of life in those living with neurological conditions (Arbesman & Sheard, 2014; Soofi et al., 2017). The purpose of this capstone project was to allow the student to gain advanced clinical practice skills the areas of assistive technology and seating and mobility, to serve adults with neurological conditions, and to address gaps in service provision. The project was completed at an inpatient rehabilitation facility where the student participated in wheelchair evaluations, assistive technology clinic, and muscular dystrophy association clinic. Corresponding objectives and deliverables were created for each area to address the site’s needs and facilitate the student’s clinical skill development. As a result of the capstone project, the student demonstrated increased competency in seating and mobility and assistive technology service provision, gained knowledge of interdisciplinary roles within assistive technology provision, and gained knowledge in working with individuals with neurodegenerative conditions. The site gained resources to address gaps in service provision. Findings indicate that assistive technology can have a large benefit for those with neurological conditions. Recommendations include implementing objective measures into evaluations to streamline service provision in addition to providing further entry level education to occupational therapy students.
Recommended Citation
Larsen, Kathryn R., "Exploring Occupational Therapy's Role in Seating and Mobility and Assistive Technology Services in Adults with Neurological Conditions" (2025). Occupational Therapy Capstone Presentations. 146.
https://red.library.usd.edu/ot-capstone/146