OTD Capstone Projects

Abstract

Best Buddies is the largest international organization dedicated to end social, physical, and economic isolation among individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Alongside of the Belmont Best Buddies president, we assessed the club’s specific needs and developed a sustainable field-day like event to promote engagement in physical activity and social participation. Much of the research found revolved around a lack of ability to engage and participate in these kinds of activities, which resulted in poor overall physical health. Also, research stated that participation in activities (similar to the one we want to create) is the context in which we form friendships, develop skills, achieve mental and physical health and determine meaning in life. Due to COVID-19, the event was unable to take place as originally planned. Instead, the resources created and developed for the production of Field Day including a flexible minute-by-minute timeline of events, list of contacts, volunteer roles, equipment lists, an advertisement plan, and a variety of simple adaptations for all abilities, and wheelchair adaptations was provided to the Best Buddies Executive Team. The events were broken up into one big group event to start, followed by a variety of games and activities to be played in an open-gym format. Healthy snacks were to be provided from a variety of local companies and school organizations. A list of simple wheelchair adaptations for all events was also provided for future students needing adapted strategies.

Publication Date

Spring 4-14-2020

Faculty Mentor

Elena Espiritu

Department

Occupational Therapy, School of

College

Health Sciences & Nursing, Gordon E. Inman College of

Document Type

Scholarly Project

Degree

Doctorate of Occupational Therapy (OTD)

Degree Level

Doctoral

Degree Grantor

Belmont University

Keywords

Physical activity; social participation; occupational therapy; intellectual and developmental disabilities; young adults

Download

Share

COinS