OTD Capstone Projects

Abstract

This doctoral capstone was completed in partnership with Bridges for Parkinson’s, a local nonprofit offering specialized exercise programs for those living with Parkinson’s disease and other neurological disorders. The goal of this project was to develop educational resources to provide participants and care partners with practical strategies for managing sleep and emotional changes. An inservice, including handouts, was provided focusing on practical emotional regulation and sleep strategies to use during and outside of boxing classes. These resources were designed to be sustainable for agency staff and future participants. Participants demonstrated increased knowledge of the effects of Parkinson’s disease on emotional regulation and sleep as well as increased awareness of emotional regulation and sleep strategies. An OT Practice article was also written highlighting occupational therapy interventions that support emotional regulation in Parkinson’s disease.

Publication Date

Spring 4-21-2026

Faculty Mentor

Elena Espiritu

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

Parkinson’s disease; occupational therapy; emotional regulation; sleep hygiene; mindfulness; community-based program; educational program

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