Graduation Year

2023

Degree Type

Open Access Capstone

Degree Name

Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD)

Department

Occupational Therapy

Abstract

The United States (U.S.) population is aging resulting in an increase in Skilled Nursing Home (SNF) residents. A larger proportion of SNF residents rely on wheelchairs for mobility. Currently there are no studies that determine the processes, which therapists utilize to correctly fit their clients for wheelchairs. Poor fitting wheelchairs can have a negative impact on the residents’ ability to participate in occupational activities. Residents may also suffer physical or psychological consequences from an ill-fitting wheelchair. Therapists in SNFs often have no established criteria in providing wheelchairs for their clients. There can be institutional barriers to providing appropriate wheelchairs for their clients. Due to the large cost associated with providing MWCs and the large number of SNF residents who could benefit from them, understanding the recommendations from therapists can decrease possible waste and enhance provision of appropriate wheelchairs. The purpose of this quantitative survey design was to examine the perceptions therapists have on their experiences providing MWCs to SNF residents. The process for supplying MWSs to residents can be time consuming, expensive and met with resistance from administrators, insurance companies and even families. Funding for MWC can vary from state to state and there are no studies to determine best practice to supply wheelchairs to SNF residents.

Faculty Mentor

Allen Keener, OTD, MS, OTR/L, ATP

Department Affiliation

Occupational Therapy

Committee Member

Renee Causey-Upton, PhD, OTD, OTR/L, CLA, FAOTA

Department Affiliation

Occupational Therapy

Department Affiliation

Occupational Therapy

Comments

I want to acknowledge that without the prompting and guidance of God I would not have undertaken this project nor have been successful with completing this capstone. I wish to thank my best friend, who is also my editor, number one cheerleader, and wife Marcia. I never would have been able to complete this without your constant support and encouragement. I also have had the support and understanding of my children and grandchildren when I have had to skip a game or play to work on a paper/report and I thank them for their words of encouragement. I am indebted to Dr. Allen Keener for all his time, wisdom and effort on this capstone as well as the class he taught. I can’t thank Dr. Renee Causey-Upton enough for all of her support and guidance, not just as a committee member on the capstone but throughout all the other classes she has taught in the PPOTD program. I would be remiss if I didn’t acknowledge and thank Dr. Shirley O’Brien for all her guidance and support as I have walked this path of a post professional occupational therapy doctoral student.I would also be remiss if I didn’t acknowledge the support that I received from the rest of the Sensational Six: Kwandra, Jenny, Kim, Genia, and last but not least Tina. Having your support and encouragement was often the prodding I needed to get through another paper, discussion board, and all the other activities we have completed in these past two and a half years. I know each of you will do amazing things for our profession and our world.

IRB Approval Number (if applicable)

5058

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