OTD Capstone Projects

Abstract

This capstone project was completed in collaboration with BrightStone, a nonprofit organization in Franklin, Tennessee, that provides vocational, social, and residential programming for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The purpose of this project was to address the increasing needs of the organization’s aging student population by promoting safety, independence, and occupational engagement across day and residential settings. A needs assessment guided the development and implementation of an 8-week educational curriculum addressing aging-related topics, including physical changes, nutrition, mental health, cognitive changes, fall prevention, home safety, and healthy routines. Additional deliverables included staff training to support long-term sustainability of aging-related programming, creation of sensory and behavioral task boxes to improve classroom participation and independence, and education on environmental modifications to enhance safety and occupational performance in residential settings. A pre- and post-survey was administered following the fall prevention curriculum to assess participant confidence and awareness related to fall risks, prevention, and recovery, with post-survey results demonstrating increased knowledge and confidence. Staff feedback and observations demonstrated increased student knowledge of aging-related safety, improved staff understanding of support strategies, enhanced classroom engagement, and increased awareness of the role of occupational therapy within the organization.

Publication Date

Spring 4-21-2026

Faculty Mentor

Elicia Cruz, PhD, OT/L

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

Intellectual and development disabilities; aging; fall prevention; independent living; staff education; sensory strategies; environmental modification; community-based practice; occupational engagement

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