Submission Date
8-6-2025
Document Type
Entry Level Capstone
Degree Name
Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD)
First Mentor
Aniko Hutchison, COTA/L, BS
Abstract
This doctoral capstone project was completed at Seaside at Fort Myers, a senior living facility encompassing Independent Living (IL), Assisted Living (AL), and Memory Care (MC) settings. The primary objective was to promote independence among older adults through two occupational therapy-informed initiatives: the development and facilitation of a structured habit training program and the creation of a practical activity planning checklist for staff. The 4-week habit training program focused on supporting daily routine development using analog tools such as calendars, checklists, and simulated planning tasks. These sessions targeted cognitive functions commonly impacted by aging, including task initiation, planning, and consistency. Additionally, collaboration with the activities department led to the creation of a checklist designed to guide the selection and adaptation of group activities that promote resident autonomy and functional engagement. The checklist addressed key performance areas such as activities of daily living (ADLs), instrumental activities of daily living (IADLs), motor coordination, and social participation. Resident survey responses indicated increased understanding and confidence in using tools to support daily habits, while staff collaboration helped ensure the checklist aligned with existing facility routines. This capstone experience demonstrates how occupational therapy principles can be integrated into senior living environments to enhance meaningful participation, independence, and overall quality of life.
NSUWorks Citation
Jamie Spangler. 2025. Integrating Occupation-Based Activities and Habit Training to Support Independence in Senior Living Facilities. Capstone. Nova Southeastern University. Retrieved from NSUWorks, . (174)
https://nsuworks.nova.edu/hpd_ot_capstone/174.