Date of Award

5-2026

Document Type

Oral Presentation/Poster

Degree Name

Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD)

Department

Health Science

Faculty Mentor

Karen Hebert, PhD, OTR/L

Keywords

Occupational Therapy, Vision Rehabilitation, Neurorehabilitation, Traumatic Brain Injury, Cerebrovascular Accident

Subject Categories

Occupational Therapy

Abstract

Visual dysfunction affects up to 90% of individuals with traumatic brain injuries and up to half of stroke survivors, significantly impacting independence in daily occupations. This capstone project, conducted at Nebraska Methodist Hospital, aimed to improve clients’ occupational performance and enhance occupational therapy vision neurorehabilitation through advanced clinical skill development and the development of resources. The project involved the evaluation and treatment of eleven neurological patients across inpatient and outpatient settings. Guided by Warren’s Hierarchy of Visual Perceptual Skills and Toglia’s Dynamic Interactional Approach, the project emphasized stabilizing foundational visual skills before progressing to higher‑level visual-perceptual tasks and used near and far transfer of activities to promote occupational performance. Key deliverables included a biVABA quick-reference guide, a technology guide for the Bertec Vision Trainer, a psychosocial toolkit, and five evidence-based educational handouts. Clinical outcomes demonstrated improvements in occupational performance in the outpatient population and ocular motility and scanning improvements in the inpatient population, while clinicians reported confidence in the assessment and treatment of visual deficits. The project highlights the ongoing need for standardized OT‑led vision screening protocols, enhanced collaboration with neuro‑ophthalmology, and further research exploring the relationship between visual skill improvement and functional outcomes. Overall, this capstone reinforces occupational therapy’s essential role in vision neurorehabilitation and supports the integration of evidence‑based, holistic approaches across the continuum of care.

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