OTD Capstone Projects

Abstract

This doctoral capstone was completed in partnership with Bridges for Parkinson’s, a local nonprofit offering specialized fitness classes for individuals with Parkinson’s disease and other neurological disorders. The goal of this project was to promote participation in preferred leisure activities, including pickleball, golf, and hiking, and provide education to care partners. Programming was developed with adapted preparatory exercises and activities corresponding to leisure activities in fitness classes. Clients were provided with the opportunity to participate in leisure activities at an off-site location at the end of the week. Participants engaged in pickleball, golf, and hiking while socializing with others with Parkinson’s and their care partners, fostering a sense of community and understanding. Along with this, care partners attended an educational in-service related to fall prevention, fall recovery, and body mechanics when transferring their loved ones.

Publication Date

Spring 4-20-2025

Faculty Mentor

Sandy Stevens

Department

Occupational Therapy, School of

College

Health Sciences & Nursing, Gordon E. Inman College of

Document Type

Poster

Degree

Doctorate of Occupational Therapy (OTD)

Degree Level

Doctoral

Degree Grantor

Belmont University

Keywords

Individuals with Parkinson’s disease; Bridges for Parkinson’s; participation; leisure activities; socialization; educational resources; care partners

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