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Capstone Abstract
Transition services include training in daily living, social, cognitive, and vocational skills that align with occupational therapy’s (OT’s) scope of practice. However, occupational therapy (OT) is minimally represented in transition services. This doctoral capstone project (DCP) aims to contribute to the development and expansion of an outpatient, hospital-based transition program for adolescents and young adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Group programming in this setting is a unique and feasible environment to provide services for skill-building opportunities that also emphasize caregiver involvement. This program offers a solution to the gap in OT services for adolescents and young adults with IDD. The DCP included implementing two new group programs, expanding infrastructure for the program, creating a screening tool specifically for transition-age patients, and advocating through publications and presentations on OT’s role in transition services. The DCP was successful in achieving the purpose of contributing to the development of a transition program and expanding access for adolescents and young adults with IDD. The DCP was able to impact expanding the OTPT Transition Services: Thrive Program at CCHMC and further connections with transition service providers within CCHMC. Implications for OT practice include that group programming is beneficial to improving skills necessary for adult roles and organically providing opportunities for social interaction. It is also crucial to empower caregivers and adolescents to carry skills to other environments and learn strategies to support individuals at home, increasing self-advocacy skills and self-determination.
Publication Date
Fall 12-15-2023
Key Terms
transition services; occupational therapy; adolescents; young adults
Disciplines
Occupational Therapy
Student Contact
Olivia Cooper
oliviagraceniemi@gmail.com
Recommended Citation
Cooper, Olivia G., "Occupational Therapy Transition Services" (2023). Occupational Therapy Capstones. 5.
https://www.exhibit.xavier.edu/ot_capstone/5
