Meaningful Participation Matters: Evaluating Resident Engagement in a Senior Living Activity Program
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Description
This capstone project evaluated and improved the life enrichment program at Dominion Senior Living, an assisted living facility serving older adults, including those in memory care. Centered on the ACOTE focus area of program development, the project aimed to promote meaningful, accessible engagement through an occupational therapy lens.
Goals included assessing current activity effectiveness, identifying participation barriers, and developing evidence-based recommendations to improve variety, inclusivity, and therapeutic value. A needs assessment—using resident surveys, staff feedback, and structured observations—revealed low engagement among memory care and male residents, limited activity variety, and insufficient opportunities for meaningful social interaction. A literature review supported these findings, underscoring the importance of occupation-based engagement for cognitive function, emotional well-being, and overall quality of life in older adults.
A mixed-methods approach analyzed quantitative survey data and qualitative observations to identify trends. Deliverables included a resident feedback form, activity observation checklist, SWOT analysis summary, tailored activity recommendations, and an executive summary report.
Through this project, I demonstrated leadership by initiating staff discussions, advocating for activity adaptations, and applying evidence-based strategies. I strengthened my communication, program evaluation, and clinical reasoning skills while engaging in interdisciplinary collaboration.
This work reinforces occupational therapy’s role in program development, client-centered care, and quality improvement in assisted living. It also supports occupational science by highlighting the value of meaningful occupation in promoting identity, purpose, and health. Ultimately, the project provided actionable tools to enhance resident engagement and satisfaction while demonstrating OT’s capacity to improve quality of life in aging populations.
Graduation Date
2025
Disciplines
Occupational Therapy
Degree Type
Open Access Capstone
Document Type
Poster
Degree Name
Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD)
Department
Occupational Therapy
Site Mentor
Kristen McDowell
Comments
Link to presentation: https://youtu.be/CDm5zMXyN7A