OTD Capstone Projects

Abstract

The Center for Living and Learning is a private nonprofit residential treatment facility on a 30-acre farm in Franklin, TN, housing adults who experience severe and persistent mental illnesses such as schizophrenia and schizoaffective disorder. The Center provides opportunities for leisure activities during the day; however, due to symptomology such as avolition, anhedonia, and social withdrawal, residents often struggle with participation in valued leisure activities. This doctoral capstone project aimed to promote participation in leisure activities, social participation, and community engagement. The Interest Checklist and Leisure Satisfaction Measure were administered to determine residents’ individual interests and satisfaction levels with leisure activities. Based on the results of individual evaluations, leisure activities were implemented with tapering support to promote independence. Residents participated in activities such as pickleball, shuffleboard, Bible study, yoga, Zumba, etc., and residents interested in leading a group were provided with detailed group activity guides. Staff were provided with a list of community outings with accessibility features for increased community engagement.

Publication Date

Spring 4-20-2026

Faculty Mentor

Dr. Whitney Dupree

Department

Occupational Therapy, School of

College

Pharmacy, College of

Document Type

Poster

Degree

Doctorate of Occupational Therapy (OTD)

Degree Level

Doctoral

Degree Grantor

Belmont University

Keywords

mental health, severe mental illness, residential treatment, participation, leisure activities, social participation, community engagement

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