Occupational Therapy Program Student Theses, Dissertations and Capstones

Document Type

Dissertation - NSU Access Only

Degree Name

Doctor of Occupational Therapy (Dr.OT)

Copyright Statement

All rights reserved. This publication is intended for use solely by faculty, students, and staff of Nova Southeastern University. No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means, now known or later developed, including but not limited to photocopying, recording, or other electronic or mechanical methods, without the prior written permission of the author or the publisher.

First Advisor

Carol Lynn Chevalier

Date of original Performance / Presentation

January 2022

Publication Date / Copyright Date

1-1-2022

Abstract

Background: Low vision is a debilitating condition and is frequently caused by age-related changes and diseases of the eye. Common eye diseases include macular degeneration, cataracts, glaucoma, and diabetic eye conditions. Low vision may decrease a person ability to perform daily activities, leading to isolation and depression. Certain aspects of low vison services have not been widely recognized by many eye care professionals. This is due to lack of knowledge and collaboration with other healthcare professions. Robust evidence supports the role of occupational therapy practitioners for supporting older adult clients with low vision. Purpose: The purpose of this capstone project is to bridge the gap between occupational therapy and optometry to improve functional performance in community dwelling older adults. Method: A pilot study with a sequential explanatory approach. A pre-test, post-test, and surveys were conducted to demonstrate change after exposure to the low vision intervention guide. A sample size of n=10 was used. Results: An increase was noted in the post-test versus the pre-test. According to the post test results an increased number of participants had a better understanding of occupational therapy services for clients with low vision. There was also an increased number of participant willing to continue referring to occupational therapy services post intervention according to the survey results. Discussion: The results of this study demonstrate use of the low vision intervention guide in optometry practice increased the confidence of referring older adult clients with low vision to community-based occupational therapy services.

Disciplines

Occupational Therapy

Keywords

Adaptive Equiment; Community-based Practice; Low Vision; Older Adults; Ophthalmologist; Optometrist

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