caot conference 2015 congrès de l'ace winnipeg may 27-30

CAOT Conference 2015 Congrès de l’ACE May 27‐30 mai

CAOTConference2015Congrèsdel’ACEWinnipegMay27‐30

Tuesday,May26mardi,le26mai

Pre‐conference Workshop, May 26th 8:30‐4:30 “Doing” Human Rights in Diverse Occupational Therapy Practices Presenters: Clare Hocking & Elizabeth Townsend Pre‐conference Workshop, May 26th 8:30‐4:30 The Clinical Application of a Seating Process Practice Model Presenters: Jennifer Birt & Allison Robinson Pre‐conference Workshop, May 26th & May 27th 8:30‐4:30 Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training Presenter: Kim Hewitt & Merri‐Lou Paterson

Wednesday,May27mercredi,le27mai

Pre‐conference Workshop, May 27th 8:30‐4:30 The Multiple Errands Test: Developing, administering and scoring site‐specific versions Presenters: Deirdre Dawson & Emily Nalder Pre‐conference Workshop, May 27th 8:30‐12:00 Management of Arthritis of the Hand: A Practical Approach Presenters: Amanda Lock & Lynn Richards le 27 mai 8:30‐12:00 La rédaction scientifique selon deux perspectives : Atelier pour les auteurs et réviseurs de la RCE 8:30 – 12:00 Animatrices : Rose Martini et Catherine Vallée Pre‐conference Workshop, May 27th 1:00 ‐ 4:00 Scholarly Writing from Both Sides: CJOT Authors’ and Reviewers’ Workshop Presenters: Helene Polatajko, Jane Davis & Kaitlyn Voyce

Opening Ceremonies & Keynote Address / Cérémonies d’ouverture et

Conférencière d’honneur Wednesday 18:30‐21:30 Room/ Salle : Wellington

Dr Clare Hocking

Special event/ Événements spéciaux

Over the profession's history, occupational therapists have enabled people with disabilities to participate in

occupation. We've strengthened individuals' capacity to engage in occupation and reducing environmental

barriers. Thousands upon thousands of people have accessed education, returned to work, and enacted their

domestic and social roles because of the input of occupational therapists. Helping people with disabilities take

their place alongside peers has changed the face of society, by increasing their visibility and contribution to

economic and social life. Now we face a new challenge: putting our weight behind the United Nations and WHO

call aligning health with human rights. That means attending to the needs of the most vulnerable; the poorest of


the poor and those who experience discrimination. Are we ready to take up the challenge? In her keynote address,

Professor Hocking will consider the implications for occupational therapy education, everyday practice, and the

politicisation of the profession.

Professor Clare Hocking has a long history of fostering occupational justice. As Executive Editor of the Journal of

Occupational Science and co‐author of the 3rd edition of Wilcock's Occupational Perspective of Health (2015), she

has supported research and scholarship in the field. As the New Zealand delegate to the World Federation of

Occupational Therapists she inserted occupation centrally in the Minimum Standards for the Education of

Occupational Therapists. Furthering that work, she and Emeritus Professor Elizabeth Townsend advised WFOT

about embedding occupational justice into the Standards ‐ opening the way for all therapists to address human

rights issues in everyday practice.

Tout au long de l’histoire de la profession, les ergothérapeutes ont aidé les personnes handicapées à participer à

des occupations. Ils ont rehaussé la capacité des individus de s’engager dans des occupations, tout en réduisant les

barrières environnementales. Ainsi, grâce aux ergothérapeutes, des milliers de personnes ont eu accès à

l’éducation et elles ont pu reprendre leur travail, ainsi que leurs rôles familiaux et sociaux. Le fait d’aider des

personnes handicapées à reprendre leur place aux côtés de leurs pairs a changé le visage de la société, en

augmentant leur visibilité et leur apport à la vie économique et sociale. Nous faisons maintenant face à un

nouveau défi : nous ranger derrière les Nations Unies et l’Organisation mondiale de la santé afin d’axer les services

de santé sur le respect des droits humains. Pour ce faire, les ergothérapeutes doivent répondre aux besoins des

personnes les plus vulnérables, des personnes les plus pauvres et de celles qui sont victimes de discrimination.

Sommes‐nous prêts à relever le défi? Dans son discours d’honneur, la professeure Hocking examinera les

conséquences de cette orientation sur la formation en ergothérapie, la pratique quotidienne et la politisation de la

profession.

La professeure Clare Hocking s’intéresse depuis longtemps à la justice occupationnelle. En effet, à titre de

rédactrice en chef technique du Journal of Occupational Science et de co‐auteure de la troisième édition du livre

Wilcock's Occupational Perspective of Health (2015), elle a appuyé la recherche et l’enseignement dans ce

domaine. Par ailleurs, en tant que déléguée représentant la Nouvelle‐Zélande à la Fédération mondiale des

ergothérapeutes (FME), elle a situé l’occupation au centre des Normes minimales relatives à la formation des

ergothérapeutes. Afin de poursuivre cette démarche, elle s’est associée à la professeure émérite Elizabeth

Townsend afin de conseiller la FME, en vue d’incorporer la justice occupationnelle dans les Normes, ouvrant ainsi

la voie à tous les ergothérapeutes souhaitant aborder des enjeux relatifs aux droits de la personne dans leur

pratique quotidienne.

Breakfast with the President / Petit déjeuner de la présidente

Thursday 07:30‐08:15 Room/ Salle : Wellington

Lori Cyr [email protected]


Join CAOT’s President, Lori Cyr, Board of Directors and national office staff for breakfast. Members will have the

opportunity to get together to discuss emerging issues, identify areas of concern and give voice to opportunities

for collaboration and collective action for the Association.

La présidente, le conseil d’administration et le personnel de l’ACE vous invitent au petit déjeuner de la présidente.

Cette rencontre permet aux membres de se rassembler pour discuter des questions d’actualité, cibler des

domaines de préoccupation et suggérer des possibilités de collaborations et d’actions collectives pour

l’Association.


T1 Diversifying the Occupational Therapy Profession


Brenda Beagan, Dalhousie University [email protected]

Professional Issue Forum

This professional issues forum will explore existing theory evidence regarding diversity within the professions, with

a focus on the health professions and occupational therapy. It will explore why it is important to improve diversity

in some areas. It will examine the everyday experiences of members of specific minority groups within the

professions, with a focus on the health professions. It will invite participants to help identify directions for

improving diversity within occupational therapy in Canada.

T2 Spinal bracing made easy – fit and function

Thursday 08:30‐09:00 Room/ Salle : Cambridge

Andrea Dyrkacz (University Health Network ‐ Toronto Western Hospital, Toronto) [email protected]

Paper presentations : Education, Adult Physical Health

Rationale: Spinal bracing is typically used to manage non‐surgical vertebral fractures, or to support healing in those

with specific comorbid conditions. In specialized spinal surgery centres, occupational therapists (OTs) have

expertise in the functional management of spinal braces, and the provision of education to patients, families and

caregivers unexpectedly facing months coping with daily routines within the confines of external vertebral fixation.

However, many of these patients return to their local hospitals or discharge home ‐ with OTs who provide their

care facing seemingly complex braces and complex discharge questions. Objectives: 1) To explain the principles

underlying cervical, thoracic and lumbar spinal braces; 2) To outline typically‐assigned precautions and their

functional implications; and 3) To present practical resources for management of patients with spinal braces.

Approach: A review of the principles of spinal bracing, and issues related to fit and function will be undertaken.

Halo vest fixation, cervical collars, thoracic braces, and thoracic‐lumbar‐sacral orthoses will be covered, with

specific resources for patient and family education will be provided. OT scope of practice related to spinal bracing

will also be discussed. Practice Implications: Although spinal bracing seems esoteric, the principles underlying the

prescription of a spinal brace are not complex. OTs, regardless of practice context have the ability to manage

patients in spinal braces and provide appropriate supports. Conclusion: Spinal bracing is an area of focus for OTs

working in specialized centres, However, OTs working other contexts often provide care to these patients and

require support and practical resources to provide safe and functional care.

T3 Cognitive and perceptual screening for all mild stroke patients

Thursday 08:30‐09:00 Room/ Salle : Harrow/Essex/ Canterbury

Lise Zakutney (Otawa) [email protected]

Paper presentations : Institution, Adult General

Introduction: Patients seen in emergency or acute care for transient ischemic attack (TIA) or mild stroke are not

always referred to occupational therapy. They may return home with subtle cognitive or perceptual deficits that

affect occupational performance. Identification of these problems prior to leaving the hospital may increase

patients' likelihood of accessing appropriate occupational therapy services in stroke rehab. Objective: Describe the

implementation of a new screening procedure at our hospital. All TIA or mild stroke patients scoring 1 or more on

the visual, extinction or inattention items on the NIHSS or will be discharged within 72 hours of admission will be

referred to occupational therapy. Occupational therapists will administer cognitive and perceptual screening tests

recommended by Canadian Stroke Best practice guidelines. Method: Reasoning behind the procedure will be

explained. The number of patients screened, time required for screening and follow‐up actions over the first

3months of this service will be described. Practice implications: With increasing pressure for early discharge, it is

important to implement procedures to ensure that patients, who sustained subtle cognitive and perceptual deficits

as a result of their stroke event, receive occupational therapy services once discharge from acute care. Conclusion:

The referral to occupational therapy of all eligible patients diagnosed with TIA or mild stroke for a perceptual and


cognitive screening should help ensure that patients are referred to appropriate services in a timely manner for a

quick access to rehab services which is Best Practice in Stroke Care.

T4 Partnerships That Can Bring Design Ideas to the Marketplace

Thursday 08:30‐09:00 Room/ Salle : Lombard Room

Brenda Ashe (The Ottawa Hospital, Ottawa) [email protected] Elaine Darling

Poster defense : Community, Adult General

Introduction: A toileting aid design used frequently in an acute care setting is chosen over other designs to

promote patient independence in managing their toileting needs. By developing a partnership with a non‐profit

agency that specializes in custom product solutions, the feasibility and process of bringing this health aid to market

has resulted in a document outlining the steps involved. Engineers and other skilled volunteers in the community

program have worked with the occupational therapist to refine and create a 3‐D model of the toilet aid design for

low volume production and trial. Objectives: To share the benefits of partnering with an experienced non‐profit

program in refining healthcare aid designs. Approach: The completed document outlining the decision process in

bringing a design idea to market, such as the toilet aid, will be available for discussion. The marketing and 3‐D

printing of the toilet aid will be used to explain the process of low volume production and market testing which is

one of the final steps in bringing a design idea to a larger healthcare market. Practice implications: Occupational

therapists can use the 3‐D printing process to produce, refine and test design ideas. Conclusion: Occupational

therapists, working with community partners, can increase community awareness of needs that enable people's

full participation in occupations through the design, development and production of healthcare aid ideas.

T5 Disability management social media website: Knowledge translation and exchange project


James Mitchell Jeffrey (University of Manitoba, Winnipeg) [email protected] Margaret Friesen

Poster defense : Education, Adult General

Introduction: Disability managers are key members of injury prevention and return to work programs in both

urban and rural environments. However, rural disability management is different from urban: two differences

include access to resources and working‐in‐isolation. Knowledge translation and exchange is a tool for sharing

ideas among professionals and was applied to this disparity. Objectives: The project shared evidence‐based

practice and clinical reasoning information between rural and urban disability managers while also providing a

place for discussion. Methods: A new website was created to share information between disability managers

across the province. Website members were recruited through Facebook, LinkedIn, and word‐of‐mouth. Content

was created by the principal investigator, website members and research coordinator. Three types of content were

created: clinical‐reasoning blogs, "ask‐the‐research‐guy" evidence based practice summaries, and research reports.

There were three website goals: 1) attract members, 2) create new and original content, and 3) facilitate a

forum/comments for discussion among members. Results: After five months, there were 42 new website

members, 13 original articles or videos, eight comments regarding the welcome video or Ask‐the‐research‐guy and

zero forum discussions. Three recommendations will be discussed regarding social media websites: size of target

audience, self‐built versus professional‐built websites, and project time span. Conclusions: Urban and rural

disability management differs in access to resources and working‐in‐isolation; a potential solution is an information

sharing system. As trialed in this project, a social media website is a potential tool for future use.

T6 On‐line Masters of Clinical Science in Driving Rehabilitation


Sherrilene Classen (University of Western Ontario, London) [email protected] Miriam Monahan

Poster defense : Education, Non‐specific to Client Group

Introduction: Canada and the United States have 325 driving rehabilitation specialists (DRSs). In low and mid‐

income countries such as South Africa or Brazil there are few or no DRSs. Given the small number of DRSs, we are


ill equipped to meet the critical demands of an ageing society's mobility needs, or to provide fitness to drive

interventions for medically at risk populations through the lifespan. We clearly require an increase in capacity of

medically trained professional, such as a DRS, to evaluate and provide interventions for medically at risk drivers.

Objectives: To address the shortage of medically trained DRSs in North America and developing countries, we are

introducing the first post‐professional on‐line Master's Degree of Clinical Science in Driving Rehabilitation.

Approach: The presentation includes an overview of the curriculum, content, admission's criteria, cost, structure,

requirements and outcomes of the new masters degree. Practice implications. This program provides opportunity

for developing and demonstrating: specialized skills, advanced practice behaviors, leadership activities, critical

appraisal of research, and seminars in driving rehabilitation. Moreover, this program will instill professional and

practice opportunities to encourage reflective thinking, while providing hands‐on experience and structured

mentor sessions. Conclusions. At the conclusion of this presentation conference participants will understand how

the Masters of Clinical Science in Driving Rehabilitation utilizes evidence informed practice knowledge and practice

based experiences to provide a leading edge on‐line and in clinic educational experience for occupational

therapists interested in becoming a DRS.

T7 Assessing ED Robot’s Activity Facilitation Among Older Adults with Dementia


Kyla Man (University of Toronto) [email protected] Sharon Ling, Rosalie Wang, Alex Mihailidis

Poster defense : Community, Older Adult General

Background. Older adults with dementia (OAwD) have cognitive limitations that require daily assistance such as

reminders and guidance to carry out activities of daily living (ADLs). However, with the rapidly aging population

fewer caregivers are available. The use of personal assistive robots (PARs) to facilitate ADLs for OAwD can reduce

the amount of ongoing supervision needed and enable more independence to complete ADLs. Objective. This

study explores the effectiveness and acceptance of the ED PAR in facilitating OAwD's ADLs, such as making a cup of

tea. Methods. A sequential quantitative‐qualitative mixed methods study is conducted using video, audio and

interview data from 10 individuals aged 55 and older with mild to moderate dementia. Tea making is completed

under the facilitation of ED. ED is tele‐operated by a researcher to facilitate an ADL by providing step by step verbal

and visual prompts. The effectiveness is examined by analyzing the success rates in completing the activity under

the assistance of the ED. OAwD's acceptance in using ED to assist is gauged by examining participants' affective

response data that is collected through participant's verbal remarks during activity and interview responses.

Practice Implications. The findings will inform assistive technology researchers in improving human‐robot

interaction. Conclusion. PARs can decrease the need for ongoing caregiver assistance and allow for OAwD to age‐

at‐home.

T8 Occupational Justice for Forensic Clients: A Community Housing Society

Thursday 08:30‐09:00 Room/ Salle : Salon A Richardson Conf Centre

Elizabeth Taylor (University of Alberta, Edmonton) [email protected] Suzette Bremault‐Phillips, Sharon

Brintnell

Paper presentations : Community, Adult Psychosocial Health

Introduction: Individuals with forensic histories, with severe and/or persistent psychiatric illnesses, often struggle

to transition to community living when they are no longer hospitalized. When this challenge is too great, they may

decompensate, leading to re‐offense. Successful transition is best achieved when they receive support as they

work to re‐establish their identities and relationships, and find meaning through socially acceptable occupations. A

community transitional housing provides transitional housing, personalized service plans, and life and coping skills

training. The aim of the program is to help such individuals maximize independence and quality of life. Objectives:

1. To determine the strengths and limitations of the community reintegration and life‐skills training programs

offered by the society, and their effect on resident outcomes; and 2. To identify housing and resource needs of

forensic clients with severe and/or persistent psychiatric illnesses that might improve their quality of life. Methods:

1. An environmental scan and organizational ethnography was utilized to better understand the society and its


residents; 2. Interviews with staff members and client funders were conducted to examine issues of client needs;

and 3. Focus groups were held with clients of the program to understand their experience. Results: Characteristics

of successful service provision for forensic clients experiencing severe and persistent mental health challenges

were identified. Conclusion: As the acuity and complexity of this population continues to increase, targeted, in situ

community treatment is essential in order to develop successful occupations of these hard to serve clients, while

meeting the needs of the community. .

T9 What Does Community Mean? Exploring Perspectives of Youths with Disabilities

Thursday 08:30‐09:00 Room/ Salle : Salon B Richardson CC

Natalie Rose (University of Toronto, Toronto) [email protected] Jasmine Cowen, Eisen Shauna,

Renwick Rebecca

CSOS paper : Theory, Child/Adolescent General

Introduction: Occupational science research carried out in the community is vital to understanding peoples

engagement in occupation. However, the meaning of community is often not questioned before research begins.

There are various individual understandings of the nature and importance of community, but these different

understandings are often not explicitly considered when community‐based research is designed. Objectives: This

presentation discusses various understandings of community from the perspectives of youths with

intellectual/developmental disabilities (IDD). Methods: In this qualitative study, youths (13‐24 years) with IDD

participated in videotaped, semi‐structured interviews about their community engagement. Participants were

asked about what they do in their community, their community connections, and what makes them feel they

belong (or not) in their community. Results: Initial data and the researcher’s experiences during data collection

revealed that the study design assumed a particular understanding of community. Participant’s data indicated that

the meaning of community is varied and did not always match initial assumptions. Once assumptions were

demonstrated to be too restrictive, the interview guide was modified to incorporate an expanded range of

understandings of community. Examples of data based on the restricted approach versus the expanded approach

to understanding community are presented. Conclusions: Qualitative researchers often consider and identify the

assumptions underpinning their research. However, commonly understood terms such as community are

sometimes left unquestioned, which can affect how data is gathered and interpreted. Further implications for

community‐based researchers are discussed.

T10 Ed‐OTech: Using ICTs to facilitate learning in the OT classroom

Thursday 08:30‐09:30 Room/ Salle : York

Liliana Alvarez (The University of Western Ontario, London) [email protected] Michael Ravenek

Extended discussion : Education, Adult General

Rationale: The advent of innovative technologies continues to challenge the global educational landscape.

Occupational therapy students are among a generation of learners that can benefit from these innovations, and

through them find new ways to engage and develop critical skills in the classroom. Objectives: To explore and

discuss the ways in which Information and Communication technologies (ICT) can be used to empower and engage

occupational therapy students and teachers. Approach: This session will include three parts. In part one

participants will explore a series of educational ICTs and their potential applications as well as contribute their own

Ed‐Tech experiences. In part two, presenters will facilitate a discussion on the advantages, challenges, and ethical

and accessibility considerations of these technologies in the context of occupational therapy education. Finally,

participants will work together to reflect on what occupational therapy‐ informed educational ICT looks like and

how it can impact the educational field beyond OT. Practice implications: Occupational therapy students are

immersed in a culture where occupations are being dramatically transformed by technology. The OT classroom

constitutes an opportunity to use ICTs to promote skills (e.g. clinical reasoning, critical thinking, creativity) and

technology literacy that can impact students beyond their educational experience. Occupational therapy teachers

should be at the forefront of the discussion of educational ICT access in its various dimensions. Conclusions: This

session will expand participants' Ed‐Tech tool kit. It will also continue foster a community of OT educators


interested in the specific implications and developments of educational occupational therapy technologies (Ed‐

OTech).

T11 Navigating services and resources for young adult assisitve technology users


Jacquie Ripat (University of Manitoba, Winnipeg) [email protected] Lea Pawloski, Derek McLennan,

Roberta Woodgate

Paper presentations : Community, Adult Physical Health

Introduction: Young adults with disabilities who participated in a recent research study reported a gap in

knowledge of services, programs, and funding when transitioning from child to adult healthcare, social, vocational

and educational services, particularly related to assistive technology. It is important to develop accessible and

useful ways to locate relevant information during this transition time. Objectives: The objective of this knowledge

translation project was to develop a website to disseminate information on available services, programs and

funding for young adults who are transitioning to adult services. Approach: Led by a team of occupational therapy

researchers, a web‐designer, and a consumer, a draft website was developed by locating relevant programs,

services, and funding resources. Particular focus was placed on information related to young adults and assistive

technology. Next, we will conduct a usability study with ten young adults who use assistive technology.

Participants will engage in interviews regarding website content, layout, and accessibility. Interviews will be

analysed by examining response trends; results will be used to provide direction on website modifications and

additions. Results: The current website includes resources related to home, employment, mobility, recreation, and

education. The results of the study will determine the usability of the website for the intended consumers, and will

identify whether additional content is recommended. Conclusions: The website will allow young adults, their

families, and service providers to easily find information about available assistive technology related resources,

services, and funding. Once the website has been developed, it can be expanded to include a national perspective.

T12 Cognitive Rehabilitation for Individuals with Parkinson's Disease: Exploring New Approaches


Catherine Bryden Dueck (Movement Disorder Clinic, Deer Lodge Centre / University of Manitoba, Winnipeg)

[email protected] Ruth Barclay Jacquie Ripat

Paper presentations : Community, Older Adult General

Introduction: Cognitive impairment is a non‐motor symptom of Parkinson's disease (PD) experienced by over 50%

of people with PD. Cognitive rehabilitation has been acknowledged as a beneficial treatment for people with PD,

but little research has been published on its effectiveness on occupational performance or health‐related quality of

life. While not yet studied in people with PD, the Cognitive Orientation to Occupational Performance (CO‐OP) has

potential to be an effective treatment tool. Objectives: To understand the effects of the CO‐OP on successful

engagement in desired occupations, participant‐perceived health‐related quality of life, and caregiver stress /

burden, and to examine the usefulness of the CO‐OP as a clinical treatment approach. Methods: A concurrent

mixed methods procedure with an interrupted time series A‐B‐A single‐subject design was used. Three participants

with PD and their spouses were recruited from a movement disorder clinic at an urban geriatric care centre. Data

were collected using the Canadian Occupational Performance Measure, the Parkinson Disease Questionnaire‐39,

the Zarit Burden Interview, semi‐structured interviews, and direct observation. Quantitative data were analyzed

using statistical and visual analysis, while qualitative data were analyzed using interpretive description. Analyzed

quantitative and qualitative data will be combined to gain a comprehensive understanding of the study results.

Practice Implications: The study, currently in progress, will provide information and insights on the effects and

usefulness of the CO‐OP on cognitive impairment in PD. Conclusions: Findings from this study will contribute to the

knowledge base of effective treatment tools for cognitive impairment in PD.

T13 Impact of early intervention follow‐up on paediatric post‐concussion symptoms



Patricia Mortenson (BC Childrens Hospital, Vancouver) [email protected] Ashutosh Singhal, Ross Hengel, Paul

Korn, Jacqueline Purtzki

Paper presentations : Community, Child/Adolescent General

Rationale: Concussion is a common childhood injury and reported incidence rates are increasing. Most children

recover quickly and fully, but some experience significant symptoms for many months, limiting participation in

school and other valued occupations (Barlow et al., 2010). Research with adults suggests that early provision of

reassurance and telephone counseling reduces ongoing post‐concussion symptoms (Bell et al., 2008), but there

have been no studies investigating similar intervention models for children and youth. Objectives: To investigate

the effectiveness of early intervention, occupational therapy‐based, telephone counselling in limiting post‐

concussion symptoms and impacts in children and youth. Methods: A pilot, randomized controlled study compared

the efficacy of telephone counselling conducted by an occupational therapist (discussing symptom management

and return‐to‐activity with caregivers at both one week and one month post injury) to usual care (no formalized

follow‐up). Outcomes were the Post‐Concussion Symptom Inventory and the Family Burden of Injury Interview,

administered by a blinded therapist at three months post injury. Results: Sixty‐seven participants aged 5 to 16

years were enrolled in the study. Groups were equivalent in terms of age, gender and injury type. There was no

significant difference between the groups at three months post injury in terms of post‐concussive symptoms

(p=.67) and family stress (p=.647). Conclusion: The findings suggest that the same intervention strategies for adults

may not be effective for children and youth who experience significant post‐concussion symptoms. Further

research is needed to determine if children and youth would be better serviced with more intensive and integrated

care.

T14 Severe Obesity, Resiliency and Drive: Opportunities to Enable Participation


Mary Forhan (University of Alberta, Edmonton) [email protected] Mary Law, Brenda Vrkljan, Valerie Taylor,

Jodie Asselin


Introduction: The prevalence rate of severe obesity [a body mass index (BMI) > of 40kg/m2] is expected to exceed

10% of the Canadian population within the next decade. This is the fastest growing category of obesity and is

associated with restricted participation in the occupations of everyday living. Objectives: The objective of this

study was to understand the lived experience of individuals with severe obesity. Methods: This research is part of a

larger study that described the participation profile and identified personal, occupational and environmental

factors associated with satisfaction with level of participation in everyday occupations of adults living with serve

obesity. Using a descriptive phenomenological approach, key themes were identified from 58 individual responses

to the following question: "Is there anything else that you would like to tell us about your experiences in daily

living with obesity?" This question was located at the end of a questionnaire package containing measures of

quality of life, disability status, social support and time use. Results: Overall, four themes emerged including: 1) a

trend toward increased effort in daily tasks; 2) increase in social stress; 3) decreased participation in pleasurable

and meaningful activities and 4) a strong drive necessary to live with such challenges. Conclusions: For persons

living with severe obesity, there many challenges but also opportunities that can serve as clinical starting points for

occupational therapy interventions. By understanding their lived experience and building on personal and

contextual strengths, occupational therapists can enable participation in meaningful occupations for adults living

with obesity.

T15 Simulation in education and the role of occupational therapy


Sylvia Davidson [email protected]

Poster defense : Education, Older Adult General


Introduction: Aging simulation suits can offer opportunities for students to experience physical age‐related

changes. However, the implications for educational programming and broader application within health care have

yet to be explored. As a result, in partnership with an educational institute, one health care organization

specializing in care of older adults proposed evaluating the use of an aging simulation suit. Objectives: This

preliminary project aimed to increase understanding of the experiences of older adults encountering the health

care system. By giving health care professionals in the workplace a chance to engage in an experiential session, it

was hoped that they would feel better equipped to work with their older adult clients. Methods: Occupational

therapists were among health care professionals (n=10) recruited to participate in an aging simulation study.

Participants were videotaped engaging in simulation exercises, and interviews were conducted immediately after

completion of the exercise. Preliminary findings were then presented to a large interprofessional team and a

facilitated discussion followed. Practice implications: Occupational therapy involvement offered unique

perspectives in this study, including reflections on changes in individual practice and implications for

environmental design as well as broader system transformation. Opportunities for further research range from

incorporating cognitive changes into simulation scenarios to a more in‐depth examination of the participant

experience. Conclusions: Preliminary findings suggest that older adult simulation exercises may be an effective

educational tool, not only for students, but also for health care professionals in the workplace. Participant

feedback also sheds light on how clinical practice may be enhanced.

T16 Barriers and Facilitators to Sport Participation for Children with Amputations


Marena Lamy (University of Toronto) [email protected] Batoul Sayed Ahmed, Lisa Artero, Jan

Andrysek, Debra Cameron, Sandra Ramdial, Matt Lieneweber

Poster defense : Community, Child/Adolescent Physical Health

Introduction: Individuals with amputations benefit physically and psychologically from participating in sports.

While it is known that barriers and facilitators exist that affect sport participation, these have not been explored

for children with amputations. Objectives: This study aims to identify the perceived barriers and facilitators of

participation in sports according to children with amputations and their parents. Methods: This pilot study will use

a descriptive qualitative study design. Participants consisting of children and their parents will be recruited from an

outpatient hospital clinic. Participants will participate in an interview consisting of a series of closed and open‐

ended questions. These semi‐structured interviews will be audio recorded, transcribed, and coded. Interview data

will be analyzed using content analysis. Results: It is anticipated that barriers and facilitators may emerge related

to the nature of sport programs, the need for adapted prosthetics, types of social supports, infrastructure (i.e.

adequate community spacing), the child's motivation, as well as the child's self‐esteem and self‐efficacy.

Conclusion: Information collected from this study is essential for deepening occupational therapists' understanding

of factors that either promote or hinder engagement in occupations related to sports. The findings have the

potential to allow for the development and implementation of strategies to increase levels of participation in

sports among children with amputations.

T17 Assessment of independent seniors consulting Emergency Department for minor injuries


Nathalie Veillette (University of Montreal, Montreal) [email protected] Marie‐Josée Sirois, Nadia De

Grandpré, Marianne Giroux

Paper presentations : Education, Older Adult Physical Health

Introduction: Emergency Department (ED) visit is a “sentinel event” which reveals fragility and functional decline

of older people. Recently, the Canadian Emergency Team Initiative (CETI) showed a cumulative incidence of 15% of

persistent functional decline six months after minor injuries in previously independent seniors. However, once the

medical examination is completed, the majority of seniors returned home without an assessment of their

functional status. Objective: To assess the clinical utility of the “Functional Status Assessment of Seniors in

Emergency Department (FSAS‐ED)” for these older people. Method: A case‐control pilot study was conducted in


two Quebec hospitals. Participants were evaluated at the ED. All subjects were assessed according to current

methods in ED practice and, in addition, the cases only were assessed with the FSAS‐ED. Analyses compared

various characteristics, treatment plan and recommendations made by emergency physicians or those based on

the FSAS‐ED. Results: To date, 21 cases and 48 controls have been recruited. Both groups are similar in many

characteristics, including level of autonomy and mobility. The treatment plans of emergency physicians include

rest/analgesia (45%), recommendation to see family practitioner (35%) and return to ED if needed (30%).

Interventions based on the FSAS‐ED include fall prevention (29%), referral to community resources for physical

activity (24%), organizing support in IADL (24%), to rehabilitation professionals (18%) or to family practitioner (5%).

Conclusion: While emergency physicians target short‐term interventions, those based on the FSAS‐ED aim to

maintain and improve mobility in the mid/long‐term which are key elements in limiting functional decline.

T18 Occupational aspirations, uncertainties, and youth mental health: A scoping review


Jane Davis (University of Toronto, Toronto) [email protected] Qunhao Ma, Cara Uy

CSOS paper : Community, Child/Adolescent Psychosocial Health

Introduction. The Toronto District School Boards 2013 student census reported that 73% of students between

grades 9 and 12 say they are "worried about their future." Of these same students, they report feeling

nervous/anxious (72%), feeling like crying (29%), being under a lot of stress (66%), and losing sleep because of

worries (57%). Arguably, given our economic times, the uncertainty of occupational prospects that comprises their

future weighs heavily on the minds of youth and is the source of much distress. It is imperative that we have a

clear understanding of issues related to the occupational uncertainty that our youth are facing. Objectives. This

preliminary study synthesizes the peer‐reviewed literature to address the question, "What are the most salient

issues related to occupational uncertainty for youth?" The key objective was to uncover themes of concern for

youth related to occupational uncertainty, societal expectations, and worry about their future. Method. A scoping

review based on Arksey and O'Malley's five step methodological approach was used to identify the issues related

to occupational uncertainty for youth. Themes were generated based on the extracted data. Results. Preliminary

findings indicate that most of the research studies collected data from teachers or parents and not the youth.

Most literature focused on career aspirations and counselling, with some discussing uncertainties with future and

societal expectations. Conclusions. Occupational uncertainty among our youth is a very complex problem and

includes issues related to self‐identity, productivity, economics, educational/vocational options, and family and

social expectations and pressures.

T19 Civic engagement for adults with intellectual/developmental disabilities: Scoping review


Kimberly Pacht (University of Toronto, Toronto) [email protected] Rebecca Renwick

CSOS poster : Community, Adult Psychosocial Health

Introduction: Historically, adults with intellectual/developmental disabilities (IDD) have been marginalized by

society and afforded few opportunities for civic engagement (CE). CE refers to citizen participation in community

life that contributes to improved conditions for self, others, and/or community. The literature also focuses more

frequently on dependence by adults with IDD on resources and supports rather than on their capacity for CE and

contributions to society. In addition, despite increasing emphasis on public policy to ensure equal rights and

opportunities for adults with IDD, limited efforts have focused on promoting and enhancing their CE. Objectives:

This research examines extent and content of published literature related to CE for adults with IDD. Methods: A

scoping review conducted according to the established methodological approach developed by Arskey and

O'Malley (2005), clustered relevant published literature since 1996 into five categories: living environments;

supports and relationships; attitudes; employment; and services, systems, and policies impacting CE. Results: Of

115 published documents retrieved, 21 met the study's inclusion criteria. Findings suggest that constraints related

to the five categories noted are associated with low levels of CE for adults with IDD. Conclusions: Results of this

review advance understanding of CE for adults with IDD and can contribute to further developing the emerging


conceptualization of CE. Findings have implications for occupational justice and can inform policy makers,

occupational science researchers, and occupational therapist practitioners about how to address constraints on

and opportunities for adults with IDD to become active, contributing members of society. Directions for further

research are outlined.

T20 Exploring use of life‐world in occupational therapy studies of disability


Sara Saunders (McGill University, Montreal) [email protected] Dawn Allen

CSOS poster : Theory, Adult General

Introduction: Disability following an illness or injury results from a complex interaction between the person with

the impairment and their environmental context. The Canadian Model of Occupational Performance and

Engagement helps to untangle this complexity by outlining the personal, occupational, and environmental factors

that interact to promote occupational performance. Although it is understood that imbalances within these factors

can produce disruption in occupation, how this occurs or how it is experienced is unclear. Objective: This literature

review aimed to investigate what is learned about the experience of disability when occupational therapy

researchers explore the life‐worlds of people with disabling conditions. Methods: The review involved identifying

and selecting relevant studies, charting the data and collating and summarizing the results. Results: Eleven studies

explored disability experiences resulting from acquired brain injuries, dementia, severe mental illness, or spinal

cord injury. These studies describe the chaos that can be experienced due to the changes to the life‐world

following a disabling condition, and the role that occupation plays in reordering the life‐world. Conclusions:

Exploration of the life‐world leads to new approaches to intervention that are both grounded in clients'

experiences and support occupational therapy values. Only by grounding our OT practice in the life‐worlds of our

clients can we begin to truly understand the complexity of disability and effectively intervene to reconnect our

clients to the lives they want to live.

T21 Ascribing meaning to occupation: Mothers giving and receiving, values & needs


Michal Avrech Bar (Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv) [email protected] Susan Forwell, Catherine Backman

CSOS poster : Theory, Adult General

Introduction. The elements and process involved in ascribing meaning to occupation have yet to be fully explicated

in occupational science. While meaning of occupation has been explored, no studies have simply asked about the

meaning of occupation in ordinary everyday lives (Reed, Hocking & Smythe, 2010, p. 142). Understanding and fully

explaining this process is illusive, yet fundamental to theory and practice. Objectives. To describe the meaning that

mothers ascribe to the occupations in which they engage in their everyday lives. Methods. A convenience sample

of 35 Israeli married mothers, ages 25‐45 years, participated in semi‐structured interviews using the Occupational

Performance History Interview‐ II and guided by phenomenology principles. This study used the interview data to

address the research question in a secondary analysis. Interviews were transcribed verbatim and content analysis

applied. Results. Two primary categories emerged: the meaning of “giving” (investing in their values), and the

meaning of “receiving” (ensuring their needs are met). Values such as dedication, devotion, obligation and wanting

to educate require mothers to occasionally engage in less desirable occupations. In return, mothers received

fulfillment from both mothering and non‐mothering occupations related to internalized needs such as enjoyment,

pleasure, love, intellectual stimulation and appreciation. Conclusions. The current study illustrates how values and

needs are intertwined to contribute to the meaning of occupation. Moreover, meaningful occupations can be

undesirable but the doing of them stems from the values which drive mothers to fulfill their role.

T22 Occupational Engagement Following Parental Divorce: A Critical Study


Laura Hartman (Holland Bloorview Kids Hospital, Toronto) [email protected] Lilian Magalhaes, Jan


Polgar

CSOS poster : Community, Child/Adolescent Psychosocial Health

Introduction: Adolescence is a time of occupational exploration and meaning‐making. The addition of a change in

home and family life, such as a parental divorce, can lead to occupational disruption for adolescents and a

decreased ability to explore occupations for their future. Objectives: The current study was intended to allow

young adults who had experienced a parental divorce during adolescence to share their stories of parental divorce

and the changes in occupational engagement that followed. The participants then created critical visual messages

regarding the experience of the parental divorce process. The aim was to gain a deeper understanding of how

adolescents' occupations are shaped or changed by the events surrounding parental divorce. Methods: This critical

qualitative study employed both narrative inquiry and a drawing‐based critical visual methodology. Results: The

major occupation‐based findings were the use of occupational engagement to cope, the changed roles and

responsibilities that directed occupational engagement and the available support for the participants and their

family members. The major critical messages communicated messages of resilience for adolescents, participants'

perceptions of parents in the context of divorce, and imbalances of power within and beyond the family following

a parental divorce. Conclusions: Adolescents and young adults who have experienced parental divorce must go

through changes in the availability of desired occupations as well as in prioritizing which occupations that they can

engage in when considering their families' needs. The participants shared that despite the difficulties and

imbalances following a parental divorce, they became resilient through their experiences.

T23 Youth's Perceptions of Theatre Participation Within Their Daily Lives


Kristina Toma [email protected] Liz Pounsett, Lois Adamson, Jane Davis, Helene Polatajko

CSOS poster : Community, Child/Adolescent General

Introduction: Participation in extracurricular occupations can shape the everyday lives of youth in many ways.

Theatre participation, one such occupation, has been shown to produce positive psychological outcomes among

youth, such as increased confidence and self‐esteem (Zdriluk, 2010). These outcomes may influence youth's

engagement in other daily life occupations. However, it is not known how youth perceive their participation in

theatre within the context of their daily lives and how they feel it shapes the development of their occupational

repertoire. Objectives: This study will explore the outcomes that participation in theatre may offer to youth.

Methods: This qualitative study, embedded within a constructivist paradigm, will recruit 12 youth, aged 11 to 18,

who have participated in at least one drama school workshop in an urban city in Canada. Each youth will be

engaged in a semi‐structured, audio‐recorded interview that will be transcribed verbatim. The transcripts will be

analyzed through thematic analysis and the researchers' personal experiences of participation in theatre will be

used to enhance the interpretation of the data. Results: It is expected that the findings will speak to how theatre

participation shapes youth's engagement in occupations within their home, school, and community environments

through the development of psychosocial and socialization skills. Conclusion: Gaining an understanding of how

theatre participation is experienced by youth within the context of their occupational lives will add to the literature

on the effects of extracurricular participation of youth and inform policy development.

T24 Association entre le degré de priorité et l'intensité des services


Véronique Lamontagne [email protected] Marie‐Hélène Raymond, Louise Demers

Conférence : Communauté, Personnes âgées général

Introduction : La priorisation des références en ergothérapie est une pratique fréquente, mais peu documentée

dans les programmes de soutien à domicile. Pour améliorer l'accès aux services, créer une ligne d'accès rapide

pour les clients non prioritaires peut être intéressant s'ils requièrent une moins grande intensité de services.

Objectifs : Ce projet vise principalement à investiguer si l'intensité des services ergothérapiques (nombre et durée

totale des interventions) est associée au degré de priorité de la référence initiale. Il cherche aussi à vérifier si


l'intensité des services varie en fonction des raisons de référence et du rôle de l’ergothérapeute. Enfin, il explore

l’association entre la durée d’attente et le degré de priorité de la référence initiale. Méthodes : Une étude

rétrospective a été menée à partir de dossiers de clients, qui étaient sur la liste d’attente en ergothérapie du 1er

avril 2012, au sein du service de soutien à domicile d’un CSSS d'une région urbaine du Québec. Résultats : Aucune

association significative n’est constatée entre l’intensité des services en ergothérapie et le degré de priorité de la

référence initiale, ni avec le rôle de l’ergothérapeute et les raisons de référence. On trouve une association

(K=7,948, p=0,019) entre la durée d’attente et le degré de priorité de la référence initiale. Conclusions : Ces

résultats soutiennent l'efficacité du système de priorisation en ergothérapie dans ce CSSS. Toutefois, la pertinence

de créer une ligne d'accès rapide pour les clients en fonction de leur degré de priorité n’est pas appuyée.

T25 Occupational Performance Coaching for Stroke Survivors: Preliminary results


Dorothy Kessler (University of Ottawa) [email protected] Mary Egan, Claire‐Jehanne Dubouloz, Fiona

Graham, Sara McEwen

Paper presentations : Community, Adult General

Introduction: Many stroke survivors report challenges re‐engaging in occupations. Occupational Performance

Coaching for Stroke Survivors (OPC‐Stroke) is a new approach to enabling occupation that was adapted from an

intervention designed for children with occupational performance problems (Occupational Performance Coaching

or OPC) (Graham, Rodger, & Ziviani, 2010). OPC‐Stroke is designed to assist stroke survivors to develop the ability

to plan and manage engagement in occupation. Objective: The objective of this study was explore the potential

efficacy of OPC‐Stroke. Methods: A pilot randomized controlled trial. Twenty‐one stroke survivors were

randomized to receive OPC‐Stroke or standard care following discharge from hospital or outpatient rehabilitation.

Outcomes of participation, goal achievement, goal self‐efficacy, well‐being and cognition were evaluated. Results:

Pre and post‐intervention data collection is complete and in the process of being analyzed. These findings will be

presented, along with issues related to the provision of the intervention. Conclusions: OPC‐Stroke is a new

approach to improving engagement in occupation for stroke survivors living in the community. Results of this trial

will provide preliminary evidence of the effectiveness of this intervention on participation, goal achievement, goal

self‐efficacy, well‐being and cognition.

T26 Physician Assisted Suicide through an Occupational Therapy Lens


Kevin Reel [email protected] Alana Bernick, Ariella Winter

Poster defense : Administration Health Policy, Non‐specific to Client Group

Introduction: Since Quebec legalized physician assisted suicide (PAS) in 2014 and the Supreme Court hearing of

October 2014, the prospect of regulated PAS and euthanasia (PASE) across Canada is probable. While studies have

examined opinions of other practitioners (Levy, Azar, Huberfeld, Siegel & Strous, 2013), little is known about

occupational therapists' (OTs') attitudes towards PASE. OTs' client‐centred perspective could enable them to

uniquely explore a patient’s wish to die. Therefore, it is important to understand the perspectives of individuals

within the field of occupational therapy on PASE. Objective: To survey the perspectives of OTs and student OTs in

Canada on the legalization of PASE. Methods: We aim to recruit 1000‐2000 participants for our concurrent, mixed‐

methods study. Participants will complete an anonymous online survey with quantitative and qualitative questions

to capture their perspectives. We will use the survey tool to generate descriptive statistics of the quantitative

responses and complete a preliminary thematic analysis of the qualitative responses. Results: The findings from

the survey are expected to yield a snapshot of the current perspectives of OTs and student OTs on the legalization

of PASE. Conclusion: Information from completed surveys will capture the perspectives of individuals within the

field of occupational therapy in Canada on the legalization of PASE in Canada. The analysis will inform discussions

around any emergent best practices across disciplines where clients request PASE.


T27 Preliminary Validation of the Sleep and Concussion Questionnaire in Pediatrics


Yvonne Chan (University of Toronto, Toronto) [email protected] Elena Loong, Katherine Wilson,

Ryan Hung, Nick Reed, Catherine Wiseman‐Hakes

Poster defense : Institution, Child/Adolescent Physical Health

Introduction: Concussion is a growing concern in the pediatric population. Research shows that alterations in sleep

occur post‐concussion (Leddy, Sandhu, Sodhi, Baker, & Willer, 2012) therefore, the Sleep and Concussion

Questionnaire (SCQ) was developed. Objectives: This study aims to evaluate the validity of the SCQ in adolescents

post‐concussion. Methods: Phase 1: 14 adolescents (aged 12‐18) will be interviewed to determine face validity.

Phase 2: Fifty adolescents post‐concussion (0‐6 months) will be recruited to determine discriminant validity. The

discriminant validity will be determined by the Pearson Product Moment Correlation of the SCQ and the clinician's

sleep assessment. Results: This study's findings will determine if the SCQ can validly screen for sleep disturbances

in concussed individuals and provide criteria for referrals to a specialist. Conclusion: The SCQ would provide a valid

and systematic means of monitoring sleep post‐concussion, thereby identifying those with potential of having or

developing a sleep disorder requiring further evaluation. This is important as optimizing sleep may facilitate the

recovery process, thus, allowing youth to resume engagement in meaningful occupations. As the SCQ can

quantifiably determine and monitor the degree of change in sleep, it can also be a useful measure in conducting

future research on this population.

T28 An occupation‐based approach to concussion management in youth


Anne Hunt (Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital, Toronto) [email protected] Nick Reed,

Deirdre Dawson, Melissa Paniccia, Michelle Keightley


Introduction: Currently, there are no evidence‐based guidelines for treatment and rehabilitation services that

address occupational concerns for youth with prolonged recovery following concussion. The Cognitive Orientation

to daily Occupational Performance (CO‐OP) is a rehabilitation intervention that was created to help youth master

occupational goals using a client‐centred performance based, problem‐solving approach. Evidence from other

populations, suggests that CO‐OP may effectively address the occupational concerns of youth with prolonged

recovery. Objectives: 1) Test the feasibility of CO‐OP as an intervention for youth with persistent post‐concussion

symptoms; 2) understand participants' experiences with this intervention; and 3) refine the intervention protocol

in preparation for more comprehensive study. Methods: In a case‐series design study, five youth with prolonged

post‐concussion symptoms participated in the CO‐OP intervention. Primary outcome measures were the Canadian

Occupational Performance Measure, a measure of general activity engagement (PAQ) and the Post Concussion

Symptom Inventory. Qualitative interviews to understand participant experiences with this approach to

rehabilitation were also conducted. Results: Our findings indicate that the CO‐OP intervention is feasible for use in

the management of prolonged recovery from concussion in youth. The intervention is acceptable to both youth

and their parents. Conclusions: This pilot research indicates that the CO‐OP intervention has potential in the

management of youth with prolonged recovery from concussion by enabling re‐engagement in meaningful

occupation while de‐emphasizing impairment and disability. Although further study is warranted, outcomes from

this line of research may establish occupational therapists as leaders in the field of concussion rehabilitation by

addressing the unmet intervention needs of this client population.

T29 Assessment of Global Cognitive Functioning in the Memory Clinic


Joanna Rodomar (University Health Network, Toronto) [email protected] Fatima Quraishi, Karen Azavedo

Poster defense : Institution, Older Adult General


Introduction: Research demonstrates that assessment of functional cognition combined with appropriate

interventions enables patients to stay in their homes longer, ultimately reducing healthcare costs. An

Interprofessional (IP) Memory Clinic servicing patients with progressive cognitive impairment currently has limited

OT allocation. The current focus of OT is the administration of an impairment‐based cognitive battery as well as

consultation, with limited opportunities for assessment of functional cognition. Objectives: The Allen Cognitive

Levels Screen (ACLS) was piloted with patients in the clinic to provide a value added service for patients,

caregivers, and IP team through assessment of global cognitive function. Approach: An 8 week pilot project was

implemented to introduce the Allen Cognitive Disabilities Model (ACDM). This was done by: 1) Administering and

sharing results of ACLS; 2) Providing detailed functional recommendations tailored to the individual patient's

needs. Patient and team surveys were utilized to evaluate the program implementation. Practice Implications:

Results of this pilot project provide preliminary information on how the use of ACDM as part of OT assessment can

impact interprofessional treatment planning and improve overall patient and caregiver experience in memory

clinics. Conclusions: The introduction of the ACDM to the memory clinic assessment allowed for the provision of

functional recommendations and enhanced both the IP team's and patient/caregiver's experience. Limitations of

this pilot project include small sample size, and qualitative nature of information collected through surveys. Future

studies on utility and clinical implications of screens of global cognitive function in memory clinics are needed to

inform OT practice.

T30 Informing Primary Care Occupational Therapy Practice with Seniors


Lindsay Kavanaugh (University of Toronto) [email protected] Cinthia Ramos, Barry Trentham

Paper presentations : Theory, Older Adult General

Introduction: Primary care occupational therapy aims to enable occupational engagement to promote health and

wellbeing. However, limited research describes the unique role of occupational therapists working in primary care,

particularly with seniors. Few studies examine how occupational therapy and primary care practice models,

essential to evidence‐informed practice, inform: service delivery decisions, program development and evaluation

processes, and the articulation of occupational therapy services within an interdisciplinary setting. Objectives: This

study, in progress, will provide insights into how occupational therapists working in a primary care context

conceptualize and articulate their work with seniors. It will describe how and to what extent occupation‐focused,

practice frameworks are integrated into everyday practice decisions. Methods: Using purposive sampling, we will

conduct qualitative, semi‐structured interviews with 10 primary care occupational therapists. Analysis will be

informed by Braun and Clark's (2006) approach to constructivist thematic analysis. Results: It is anticipated that

therapists will implicitly convey an occupational perspective in their practice descriptions and decision making

processes, but may struggle with explicitly articulating how occupational therapy models are integrated within a

primary care framework. Despite the holistic views inherent in both occupational therapy and primary care

philosophies, it is anticipated that therapists who work in settings dominated by a biomedical model, may

demonstrate an emphasis on impairment‐based practice. Conclusions: Outcomes of this study will illustrate how

occupational therapists frame their work from an occupational perspective, and to what extent they articulate and

realize the ideals of both occupational therapy and primary care.

T31 The impact of environment on occupational adaptation


Lana Van Niekerk (Stellenbosch University) [email protected] Matumo Ramafikeng

CSOS paper : Theory, Adult General

Introduction: In this presentation the impact of environment on occupational adaptation will be explored. Basotho

families were relocated from their villages of origin and moved to identified communities in order to make way for

dams that were being constructed. Their relocation was guided by policy developed for this purpose. Approach: A

collective case study, involving seven families that were selected using purposive sampling, was undertaken.

Narrative interviews were used to collect data. Inductive narrative analysis was done to explore the nature of


occupational adaptation and the factors that shaped it. Objectives: The aim of the study was to explore

occupational adaptation, with particular reference to livelihood creation, following forced relocation. The final

objective was to influence policy utilised to guide future resettlement of people as required for infrastructure

development. Results: A range of factors at micro, mesa and macro levels shaped the occupational adaptation of

families that were moved; whilst they were compensated for loss of property and other assets, the importance of

contextual fit with livelihood creation was overlooked. Conclusions: Recommendations for policy, that will guide

action for future relocation, include the need to better manage the impact of context on livelihood creation.

T32 Mental health and children growing up in military families


Heidi Cramm (Queen's University, Kingston) [email protected] Natalie Lussin, Ashley Willaims, Moragh

Mackenzie, Rebecca Swick, Calvin Wong

Paper presentations : Community, Child/Adolescent Psychosocial Health

Introduction: Children growing up in military families face unprecedented challenges to their mental health as they

adapt to the negative impacts of parent deployment, resulting in increased anxiety, depression, risk of alcohol and

drug use, and high risk and delinquent behaviours. Increasingly, children are coping with family members who are

living with Operational Stress Injuries related to combat service. Growing up in these family systems can disrupt

typical childhood occupations. Objectives: to identify key mental health issues and disrupted occupations for

children growing up in military families. Methods: Using Arksey and O'Malley's structured approach, a scoping

review was used to synthesize the breadth and depth of knowledge on this topic. CINAHL, Medline, PsycInfo,

Embase, and ERIC were searched to determine the mental health issues and needs associated with children

growing up in military families. During analysis, the potential ways in which typical childhood occupations are

commonly disrupted were identified. Results: 220 peer‐reviewed publications and governments reports were

reviewed. Children are experiencing mental health issues that impact social, academic, and behavioural domains,

interfering with their ability to make friends, engage in school, and regulate their behavior for play. Conclusions:

Occupational therapists need to be sensitive to the unique needs and particular health vulnerabilities experienced

by children growing up in military families. To be effective in occupational analysis and in enabling occupations at

school, home, and within the community, therapists need to be mindful of the military context, culture, and

pressures faced by military families.

T33 L'habilitation aux occupations des personnes atteintes d'arthrite rhumatoïde


Kloé Baril‐Chauvette kloe.baril‐[email protected] Martine Brousseau

Conférence : Éducation, Adultes général

Introduction Au Canada, environ 1% de la population est atteinte d’arthrite rhumatoïde (Agence de la santé

publique du Canada, 2010). Ces personnes ressentent fréquemment de la douleur, de la fatigue (Suresh, 2004), du

stress et de l’anxiété (Matcham, 2014) affectant certaines de leurs occupations. Dans le but de remédier aux

atteintes occupationnelles possibles, la pratique idéale en ergothérapie en serait une centrée sur les résultats

probants, sur des concepts fondamentaux de la profession et arrimée aux divers niveaux d’organisation des

services. Cela soulève la question suivante: «quel est le portrait actuel de la pratique?» OBJECTIF Déterminer lé

cart entre la pratique actuelle des ergothérapeutes auprès des personnes atteintes d’arthrite rhumatoïde et la

pratique idéale se basant sur les résultats probants, l’habilitation aux occupations ainsi que l’organisation optimale

des services. CADRE CONCEPTUEL Le Modèle canadien de l’habilitation centré sur le client (Townsend et coll.,

2013) définit dix stratégies d’habilitation aux occupations. Méthode Des entrevues ont été réalisées auprès de dix

ergothérapeutes intervenant auprès de personnes atteintes d’arthrite rhumatoïde. Résultats Plusieurs

interventions correspondent aux résultats probants et certaines stratégies de l’habilitation aux occupations,

notamment collaborer, éduquer et adapter, sont fréquemment utilisées. Néanmoins, les données suggèrent un

manque de connaissances de l’organisation des services actuels dans son ensemble. Conclusion Il existe un léger


écart entre la pratique actuelle des ergothérapeutes et la pratique idéale. Les personnes atteintes d’arthrite

rhumatoïde bénéficieraient de services d’ergothérapie tôt dans le cheminement de leur maladie.

T34 Kama Sutra Post Hip Surgery: Sexual Activity and Positioning


Brenda Ashe (The Ottawa Hospital, Ottawa) [email protected] Genevieve Herzog


Introduction: Safe and comfortable sexual activity and positions for intercourse following total hip replacement

and hip resurfacing surgeries is a topic not often addressed by the health care team. Patients are required to

follow anterior or posterior hip precautions for four to eight weeks following hip surgery but have limited

information on when it is safe to resume sexual activity and what positions for intercourse would best suit specific

movement restrictions for the post‐operative period. Occupational therapists in an acute care setting have

reviewed and trialed best practice guidelines to enable patients to comfortably and confidently return to sexual

activity, Method The process used to develop best practice guidelines for sexual activity and positioning post hip

surgery involved a review of current literature, development and review of a surgeon opinion survey, patient

feedback questionnaire and opinions and comments from a national webinar on the topic. The practice guidelines

have been incorporated into an educational booklet that addresses guidelines for resuming sexual activity,

intimacy and examples of sexual positions that maintain hip precautions. Practice implications: Occupational

therapists can use the educational booklet to facilitate discussion with the patient that reflects current thinking

and teaching related to resumption of sexual activity and positioning guidelines for intercourse. Conclusions: The

method used to develop best practice guidelines may be useful to occupational therapists in addressing the topic

in their own practice setting and for other health conditions.

T35 Facilitating occupational engagement through management of agitated behaviors


Joanna Rodomar [email protected] Michelle Mohan, Janice Williams

Poster defense : Institution, Adult General

Rationale: There is a need for strategies to address agitated behaviors in stroke patients in acute care hospitals.

Through interprofessional collaboration, an algorithm was developed to identify causes of agitated behaviors to

provide appropriate intervention. Many current approaches to agitated behaviors (e.g., chemical or physical

restraints) pose a threat to occupational engagement. Research shows that pharmacological treatment alone is

insufficient. Evidence exists for the efficacy of non‐pharmacological interventions; however, studies show that staff

working with agitated patients report lack of adequate training on how to manage agitated behaviors. Objectives:

Our objective was to develop guidelines for staff on non‐pharmacological management of agitated behaviors, with

specific focus on targeting behaviors interfering with occupational engagement. Approach: The Agitated Behavior

Scale (ABS) was selected to identify behaviors that would be targeted for intervention. A literature review was

completed and experts in the field of behavior management were consulted. Based on above research and

discussions, guidelines for managing agitated behaviors were developed. Relevant training and education was then

provided to staff. Practice Implications: Standardized guidelines were developed to empower the staff to

successfully manage patients' agitated behaviors to promote occupational engagement. Conclusions: Standardized

guidelines were created and implemented on neurovascular unit to identify and manage agitated behaviors.

Further research is needed to: 1) examine utility and efficacy of the guidelines implemented on neurovascular unit;

2) examine the impact of this approach on occupational engagement of patients on the unit; 3) determine the

appropriateness of this approach on other inpatient units.

T36 Functional outcomes in older adults with mild traumatic brain injury


Kaljani Mahalingam (University of Toronto) [email protected] Simrun Sekhon, Katie Churchill,


Yangmei Li, Marlene Santos, Angela Colantonio, Jane Topolovec‐Vranic


Introduction: Research has shown that older adults experience poor functional outcomes compared to younger

adults after a mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI). However, younger adults are not an appropriate comparison

group due to older adults having a higher number of co‐morbidities and/or poor pre‐morbid cognitive functioning

(Papa, Mendes & Braga, 2012). Aharon‐Peretz et al. (1997) demonstrated that older adults with mTBI have deficits

in memory. Additionally, Hughes et al. (2012) found that cognitive functioning impacts Instrumental Activities of

Daily Living (IADL) performance. Currently, no studies to date have examined IADL performance exclusively in older

adults with mTBI. Objective: The objective of this study is to compare IADL performance between older adults with

and without mTBI six months post injury. Methods: The research design is quasi‐experimental, non‐equivalent

groups design. Thirty to forty older adults (55‐79) who sustained multi‐system trauma will be recruited from a

large urban trauma unit. Of the total participants, it is expected that 15‐20 will have mTBI. Data collected includes

demographics, scores from the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MOCA) and Community Integration Questionnaire

(CIQ). Data analysis will be conducted in SPSS using a two independent sample t‐test. Practice implication: This

study may potentially bring awareness to occupational therapists about the challenges that older adults with mTBI

have in the community. This may lead to treatment services that address their challenges and consequently

facilitate successful community reintegration. Conclusions: This study will enhance the understanding of the long‐

term effects that mTBI has on older adults living in the community.

T37 Concussion & You: Raising concussion knowledge and awareness amongst youth


Jennifer Macintyre (University of Toronto) [email protected] Luciano DeFeo, Nick Reed, Christine

Provvidenza

Poster defense : Education, Child/Adolescent General

Rationale. Concussion is one of the most commonly reported injuries in youth. The 'invisible' nature of concussion

and lack of effective education, often leads to youth returning to activity prematurely. An occupational therapy‐

based concussion education session utilizing knowledge translation principles for youth, may lead to the

development of effective concussion management skills. Objectives. The aim of this study is to explore the effect

of a group‐based concussion education and peer support session ('Concussion & You'), and supplementary

handbook, on changing knowledge of concussion in youth aged 8‐18 years. Methods. The proposed study will use

a quantitative, pre‐test ‐ post‐test design with a targeted sample size of 90 youth participants. The participants will

be administered a questionnaire before and after the education session, and three months post‐session, to

evaluate concussion knowledge and attitudes. Data will be analyzed using descriptive statistics, frequency counts,

and a Thematic Framework Analysis. Results. It is expected that youth who attend the session will have improved

knowledge of concussion and concussion management. Conclusion. 'Concussion & You' may prove to be an

effective educational approach to raising concussion knowledge in youth. This increased knowledge can help to

promote improved occupational and health outcomes for youth following concussion. Additionally, the

information delivered within the 'Concussion & You' program has the potential to inform best‐practice concussion

management for occupational therapists.

T38 Cognitive recovery from concussion in youth: A scoping review


Hannah Mitchell (University of Toronto) [email protected] Samantha Seaton, Melissa Paniccia,

Nick Reed, Michelle Keightley


Rationale: Concussion, also known as mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI), is increasingly common among youth, and

significantly impacts meaningful daily activities. Current return‐to‐activity guidelines for youth are based on the

adult population, despite marked differences in rate of recovery post‐mTBI. While the mental faculties required for


day‐to‐day functioning have been well‐documented in adults, the cognitive recovery trajectory of youth post‐mTBI

remains understudied. Understanding the unique cognitive challenges experienced by youth post‐mTBI is essential

for return to meaningful activity. Objectives: To explore existing literature on the cognitive recovery of youth aged

13 to 18 years in acute to chronic stages of mTBI with the goal of enhancing knowledge of youth‐specific

challenges. Methods: The present study is a scoping review that will collate findings from peer‐reviewed research

and grey literature on the cognitive recovery of youth with mTBI. Utilizing Arksey and O'Malley's (2005)

framework, electronic and hand searching methods will be used to collect relevant literature. Contextual data

related to cognitive challenges in acute to chronic stages of recovery will be extracted from literature and thematic

analysis will be conducted. Practice implications: The present scoping review will explore the cognitive challenges

that youth experience post‐mTBI across the recovery trajectory and increase the information available to

occupational therapists working with youth with mTBI. Ultimately, this will contribute to the development of age‐

specific interventions in return‐to‐activity protocols. Conclusions: This scoping review will enhance knowledge

about cognitive challenges in youth with mTBI to enable optimal clinical management of the injury and guide

future practice.

T39 Raising awareness of occupation, substance use, and mental health


Shu‐Ping Chen (Queen's University, Kingston) [email protected] Terry Krupa, Heather Stuart

Paper presentations : Education, Adult Psychosocial Health

Introduction. Substance misuse and associated problems in post‐secondary settings is prevalent. Increasing

awareness of substance use patterns and potential consequences depends on developing a way of thinking and

talking about this issue that resonates with young people. Objectives. As part of a larger study, a Substance Use

Continuum Model was developed. It is similar to the Mental Health Continuum Model developed by the

Department of National Defense and the Canadian Forces Canada. The purpose of the Substance Use Continuum

Model is to tailor conversations about substance use so that they are sensitive to the role of student within the

context of the campus culture. Methods. A series of focus groups with university students and parents of students

were conducted. The analysis focused on describing specific thoughts, feelings, opinions, activities, experiences

and language related to substance use in the context of the campus culture. Results. The Substance Use

Continuum Model recognizes a spectrum of substance use concerns based on level of disruption in daily life. It

includes a functional analysis matrix of 10 domains (amount/frequency, coping, emotional, social, relationship,

activity, cognitive, physical, financial, and behavioural). Many of the domains include occupation‐related examples.

Conclusion. This Continuum provides an excellent structure for early intervention to reduce substance misuse and

promote mental health of young people on Canadian campuses. It raises awareness of the link between

occupation, substance use and mental health to support the well‐being of young people in postsecondary settings.

T40 Activated but stuck: negotiating long‐term unemployment in contemporary socio‐political

contexts


Debbie Laliberte Rudman (The University of Western Ontario, London) [email protected] Rebecca Aldrich

CSOS paper : Institution, Adult General

Introduction: Since the 2008 recession, social policies and services have been re‐configured in Canada and the

United States in ways that individualize the problem of unemployment and 'activate' people who are jobless. Few

studies have examined how activity expectations that are part of unemployment activation policies are negotiated

within service provision, or the implications for how persons experiencing long‐term unemployment engage in the

range of occupations that comprise daily life. Objectives: This cross‐national ethnographic study aimed to

understand how long‐term unemployment is negotiated at the levels of service provision and within daily life.

Methods: Data collection included 2‐3 semi‐structured interviews with service seekers experiencing long‐term

unemployment (N=8), and multiple informal interviews and observations with front‐line employment support


service providers (N=7). Data were analyzed using critical discourse and situational analysis. Results: Consistent

with activation policies, service seekers engaged in a range of activities related to being an "activated job seeker",

including enhancing one's marketability, job seeking, and securing a job. However, both service seekers and

providers pointed to the ways in which service seekers became 'stuck' not only within job seeking processes but

within other life realms. Conclusion: Activation policies present homogenous solutions to the problem of long‐term

unemployment while failing to address the diverse ways that social conditions shape and perpetuate experiences

of long‐term unemployment. Occupational science can foster occupational justice by illuminating inequities and

tensions, such as being activated but stuck, resulting from contemporary policy approaches.

T41 Role‐emerging fieldwork: Academic influence on new directions for practice


Ann Bossers (The University of Western Ontario, London) [email protected] Susanne Murphy, Catherine White,

Caroline Storr, Cori Schmitz, Lorie Shimmell, Donna Barker, Margaret‐Anne Campbell‐Rempel, Donna Drynan,

Andrea Duncan, Loraine Kolber, Lisa Me

Extended discussion : Education, Non‐specific to Client Group

Introduction: Role‐emerging placements provide the unique opportunity to engage in learning within sites where a

role for occupational therapy can be developed. In 2013‐2014, 247 role‐emerging placements were completed

across Canada. Objectives: This extended session will share national trends and explore opportunities for

expanding occupational therapy practice within role‐emerging areas. Guided roundtable discussions will focus on

how occupational therapists develop skills to expand opportunities within new and emerging domains. The

development of a national strategy to enable the profession to translate academic opportunities into practice

realities will be proposed. Approach: To analyze the experiences, academic programs have partnered in a multi‐

case study approach to understand the nature of the practice roles and the settings where role‐emerging fieldwork

opportunities have developed. Coding and theme generation provide a rich description of emerging practice areas.

In addition, fieldwork is mapped against the national CIHI OT practice data to compare and contrast role‐emerging

fieldwork with role‐established fieldwork and Canadian OT employment. Practice implication: Role‐emerging

fieldwork is diverse and has the potential to expand the profession. Data indicate that the majority of experiences

have a community focus on social inclusion, justice, marginalized populations, mental health and health

promotion. These practice areas are often underrepresented in established fieldwork and CIHI practice areas.

Conclusions: Academic programs have developed new opportunities in emerging practice. Ideas for the profession

regarding employment expansion in emerging areas will be explored as a step in formulating a national strategy for

the profession.

T42 Approche collaborative et efficace favorisant l’accès aux stages en région


Sylvie Scurti (Université de Montréal, Montréal) [email protected] Dominique Boucher, Éric Constantin,

Susanne Mak, Lyne Tardif

Conférence : Éducation, Pas de clientèle spécifique

Introduction: Depuis 2008, cinq programmes d'ergothérapie desservent la clientèle du territoire québécois. On y

compte environ 1500 étudiants devant faire chacun un minimum de 1000 heures de stage durant leur formation.

Comment permettre aux étudiants d'ergothérapie d'effectuer un stage dans leur région natale alors que des

critères d'affiliation précis régissent les partenariats entre chaque programme universitaire et les milieux cliniques

de son territoire ? OBJECTIFS : Permettre aux étudiants en ergothérapie d'effectuer un stage dans leur région

natale en favorisant l'accès à ce type de stage et en soutenant sa réalisation. Approche: Les programmes

d'ergothérapie québécois ont adopté une approche collaborative pour élaborer une procédure interuniversitaire

facilitant la réalisation des stages en région en tenant compte des territoires d'affiliation et des partenariats établis

avec les milieux cliniques. Résultats : Le processus de sollicitation des milieux, l'élaboration d'un formulaire unique,

les modes de communication et le soutien à l'évaluation des compétences de l'étudiant ont été révisés et adaptés.

L'élaboration d'une procédure de gestion des stages interuniversitaires a favorisé la réalisation des stages en


région. Cette collaboration des programmes universitaires et des milieux cliniques encourage le sentiment

d'appartenance des étudiants et favorise la création de liens d'emploi. Conclusion: La collaboration entre les

programmes d'ergothérapie d'un même territoire en partenariat avec les milieux cliniques est possible et favorise

la réalisation de stages dans la région natale des étudiants. Cette approche comporte plusieurs avantages dont le

maintien du sentiment d'appartenance et la création de liens d'emploi.

T43 Promoting Participation in an Aging Society: The IMPACT project


Brenda Vrkljan (McMaster University, Hamilton) [email protected] Robert Fleisig, Lovaye Kajiura


Rationale: Given Canada's aging population, it is essential that all segments of society be attuned to the needs of

older people. The IMPACT project (Interdisciplinary, Meaningful, Practice, Applied, Community, Transformative) is

pedagogical framework that involves three university faculties: Engineering, Health Sciences, and Science with

approximately 1200 students from undergraduate (Biology, Engineering) and a graduate program (Occupational

Therapy). Objective: To increase student awareness about aging and how better design can promote participation.

Approach: Students from across faculties work together to design a solution to a unique problem experienced by

an older person. A case study will be presented to illustrate this collaboration. The case in question was a woman

with longstanding rheumatoid arthritis. She identified accessing her automobile as a key factor in maintaining her

independence. However, due to physical limitations she experienced problems with "pumping gas" and "paying for

fuel." Students were divided into design teams; each tasked with solving this real‐world design problem. They

participated in a series of collaborative lectures and tutorial activities, including "think tanks" and critical feedback

sessions. Results: While the winning design produced was highly effective, it was the learning that occurred

through this dynamic and highly interdisciplinary process that was most compelling. Data from course evaluations

were analyzed alongside qualitative comments from both the participant and students. Conclusions: Our

occupational lens brings enormous value to the design process. This project illustrates how we can rise to the

challenge when it comes to developing innovations that consider the needs of our aging population.

T44 Physicians’ perspectives of cancer survivors’ work integration


Tricia Morrison (Université d'Ottawa, Ottawa) [email protected] Roanne Thomas, Paulette Guitard


Introduction: For many cancer survivors, work is a valued occupation and work integration an important quality of

life indicator. Yet, many survivors report receiving no advice from healthcare providers. As one step in a multi‐

phase study toward addressing a gap in survivorship support, this study explored physicians' perspectives of cancer

survivors' work integration. Survivors report their most frequent healthcare provider contact is physicians.

Objectives: This presentation will present physicians' perspectives of survivors' work integration as emerged from

participant interviews. Methods: Ten physicians were individually interviewed using vignette methodology.

Vignettes were composed of photographs and narratives capturing survivors' work integration experiences.

Interview transcripts were inductively analyzed using interpretive description. Results: Three themes emerged. (1)

Physicians, primarily focus on medical needs, do not spontaneously raise work integration issues. Instead, patients

raise such issues, most often due to insurance requirements. (2) Physicians readily complete insurance forms to aid

patients' well‐being but do not feel their guidance is empirically sound due to their limited work integration

training. Rather, physicians recognize other professionals, such as occupational therapists, are better equipped to

address survivors' work integration. (3) Despite this recognition, work integration referrals are not routinely

facilitated either due to lack of resources or knowledge. Conclusions: Physicians perceive themselves as ill‐

equipped to address survivors' work integration due to training, mandate, and limited time. This study's findings

underscore the need for enhanced awareness of survivors' work integration concerns and the need for accessible

support services offered by duly trained healthcare professionals, such as occupational therapists.


T45 Expanding productivity: The experiences of a scholarly writing group


Lynn Cockburn (University of Toronto, Toronto) [email protected] Jane Davis, Rhona Anderson, Debra

Cameron, Sylvia Langlois, Rosalie Wang


Rationale: Occupational therapists in academic and practice settings are expected to write about their work and to

publish in peer‐reviewed journals. However, at all stages of one's career (early, mid‐point, senior) there can be

challenges and difficulties related to writing; these challenges can be ameliorated through a collective group

process. Objective: This poster will describe a framework for the development of supportive writing groups for

occupational therapists who aim to improve their productivity of scholarly papers. We present the framework used

for our group along with the process for and development of guidelines as a model for other groups to consider.

Approach: Our group examined the literature about writing groups to develop a functional meeting protocol. The

protocol has clear goals and expectations and the members meet the accountability standards which were set

collaboratively. Meetings are held twice a month for 2 hours and follow a set process. Each member of the group

focuses on one writing project; feedback is provided, and resources are shared that relate to scholarly writing. A

structured roster is used to focus discussion. Practice Implications: Members of the writing group report increased

productivity and knowledge about scholarly writing. The structure of the group provides support and

accountability. Discussion and writing have addressed occupational therapy and other theories, the application of

theoretical perspectives to practice, and the complexity of research dissemination, thereby extending the learning

beyond the mechanics of writing scholarly articles. Conclusion: A structured and supportive writing group can

improve writing productivity of occupational therapists.

T46 Development of The Daily Activity Log for Youth with Concussion


Shauna Kalancha [email protected] Rebecca Ferries, Dayna Greenspoon, Virginia Wright, Nick

Reed


Introduction: Concussion symptoms impede youth's participation in daily activities. The recovery protocol post‐

concussion is physical and cognitive rest. Monitoring activity is a beneficial strategy to promote recovery. There is a

lack of suitable tools that can be used to monitor physical and cognitive activity levels in youth post‐concussion.

The Daily Activity Log for Youth with Concussion (DALY‐C) is a proposed tool to monitor activity levels and prevent

a delay in recovery post‐concussion. Objective: To develop and evaluate the suitability of The Daily Activity Log for

Youth with Concussion (12‐17 years old) for recording daily physical and cognitive activity throughout the recovery

process. Methods: The study consists: 1) a survey to elicit expert opinion; and, 2) cognitive interviews with youth

post‐concussion. Five to ten experts in the field will participate in a survey to inform the content and ensure its

relevance in relation to paediatric concussion management. Eight to ten youth post‐concussion will participate in

cognitive interviews to explore the comprehensibility of the log and provide suggestions for youth appropriate

presentation. Practice Implications: The log can be used by occupational therapists to monitor youth's activity

post‐concussion, to inform intervention planning, and to facilitate the graduated return to daily occupations. The

use of the log by youth post‐concussion will encourage participation in the recovery process and adherence to the

recovery protocol. Conclusion: The Daily Activity Log for Youth with Concussion will be the first validated tool for

occupational therapists to guide post‐concussion management with respect to return to activity.

T47 Occupational Therapy in Critical Care: An Interdisciplinary Scoping Review Development


F. Aileen Costigan (McMaster University) [email protected] Jocelyn Harris, Mark Duffett, Michelle Kho, Sue

Baptiste



Introduction. Individuals experiencing critical care often face residual disabilities, challenging return to pre‐

injury/illness occupations. However, the occupational therapy (OT) role in critical care is inconsistent, infrequent,

and ill‐defined. To determine the OT niche on the critical care team and support return to meaningful occupation

for clients, these shortfalls require interdisciplinary exploration. Objectives. This poster shares: a) the

interdisciplinary process used to devise and perform a scoping review of the current and potential OT role in

critical care, and b) preliminary results of the review. Methods. A comprehensive database search was completed

by an information scientist from inception to November 2013 for all documents reporting clinical roles in critical

care that are currently occurring or could be fulfilled by OTs. Interdisciplinary teams (including OTs,

physiotherapists, critical care experts and methodological experts) examined citations to select relevant reports,

abstract data, and resolve discrepancies by consensus. Results. Team collaboration identified priorities in critical

care, focusing on citations that suggested existing or possible OT roles in direct patient interventions. Preliminary

results suggest reports on OT in critical care are emerging worldwide, vary in publication type and study design,

and span traditional (e.g., mobilization) and emerging (e.g., cognitive and psychosocial service) OT roles.

Conclusions. Further research into the effectiveness of existing OT roles and role expansion in critical care

emphasizing cognitive and psychosocial services is essential. This is a time of active advocacy in OT for the

development of roles in emerging practice areas; critical care is poised to be a priority.

T48 Beyond the negative impact of substance use on occupation


Jonnie‐Lyn Baron [email protected] Niki Kiepek

Paper presentations : Education, Adult General

Introduction: Research shows a relatively high prevalence of 'hidden' illicit, licit, and pharmaceutical substance use

among professionals (e.g. physicians). Drawing on an occupational lens affords an understanding of the potential

positive and negative effects of substance use on occupational performance and experience. In this paper a

scholarly review of the literature is presented investigating the presence of substance use by professionals, post‐

secondary students, and employed adults. Objectives: The objectives are to i) bring awareness to the nature of

substance use embedded in the occupations of professionals and professional students; ii) explore the

occupational purpose, meaning, and impact of substance use for these populations. Methods: A systematic

literature review of selected books and peer‐reviewed articles published from 1990 to 2014 in English. Databases

searched included EMBASE, PsychInfo, CINAHL, Medline, and Sociological Abstracts. Search terms range from

profession‐specific terms (e.g. lawyers) to substance‐related terms (e.g. substance abuse). Results: Preliminary

analysis demonstrates that substance use may have performance enhancing effects on the quality of occupations,

in addition to producing desired experiences. For instance, optimal performance can be facilitated through

substances that alleviate anxiety or increase concentration and alertness (e.g. Adderall). Conclusion: This research

brings attention to an invisible, yet prevalent, population of drug users: those who use substances in a controlled

manner to alter or enhance performance and experience of daily occupations. A more comprehensive

understanding of substance use in Canadian society can inform social perceptions, health practices, and support

the development of socially just policy and legislation.

T49 Political Occupation of the Individual: 21st Century Oppression and Slavery


Susan Rappolt (University of Toronto, Toronto) [email protected]

CSOS paper : Theory, Non‐specific to Client Group

Introduction: Although universally abolished by legislation, human trafficking or slavery persists worldwide.

Political occupation generally refers to the overtaking of a location or government by force. In slavery, an

individual is occupied, that is, forced into occupations that are not by choice, not intrinsically meaningful, and not

conducive to health and well‐being through social oppression, threats and physical violence. Objectives: This paper

examines the concepts of modern individualized oppression and slavery as portrayed in occupational science and

related bodies of literature with the goal of describing the human occupational dynamic between oppressor and


slave. Approach: Three case studies of modern slavery as described by Bales and Soodalter (2009) are examined to

elucidate the predisposing individual and social factors and mechanisms through which one individual is enslaved

by another. Results: Systematic analysis of the cases of human trafficking in agricultural laborers, domestic service

and sex trade workers using concepts associated with occupational justice reveals that our current lexicon in

occupational science has not yet evolved to explain the dynamic that translates one's social and individual

vulnerabilities through others' sense of entitlement into oppression and slavery. Conclusions: It is hoped that this

study will stimulate future scholarship on the underside of occupation, where those who are most deprived,

alienated and marginalized are forced to work in unhealthful and potentially life‐threatening occupations.

T50 Toolkit for Assessment and Treatment of Upper Extremity Post Stroke


Leyda Thalman (St. Boniface Hospital, Winnipeg) [email protected] Brenda Semenko, Emily Ewert, Renee

Delorme, Suzanne Hui, Heather Flett, Nicole Lavoie

Extended discussion : Education, Adult Physical Health

Introduction: Occupational therapists have identified the need for increased knowledge to improve consistency in

upper extremity practice across the stroke rehabilitation continuum of care. With increasing bodies of evidence

supporting early active movement of the upper extremity post stroke, a toolkit was developed to assist in

promoting consistency in the delivery of occupational therapy. Objectives: 1. Introduce a toolkit that will assist

clinicians with practical implementation of the 2013 Canadian Best Practice Recommendations for Stroke Care for

upper extremity rehabilitation. 2. Educate clinicians regarding a practical model for consistent upper extremity

assessment and treatment post stroke. 3. Facilitate discussion on how to use this toolkit in different practice

settings. Approach: This toolkit consists of a model for upper extremity management, list of assessment

considerations and tools, treatment modalities, and practical resources for clinicians to translate this information

into practice. It has been informed by the Canadian Best Practice Recommendations and the Evidence Based

Review of Stroke Rehabilitation, in addition to clinical expertise across the continuum of care. Practice

Implications: This toolkit is relevant to clinicans working with stroke survivors in all areas of rehabilitation. It assists

the clinical decision making process and fosters consistent use of evidence based upper extremity intervention

within and between practice settings. Conclusion: The evidence for upper extremity rehabilitation continues to

emerge. This practical toolkit can improve consistency of service delivery to our stroke population, educate

clinicians in best practice and optimize upper extremity function throughout the entire course of rehabilitation.

T51 Driving and Parkinson’s: what only caregivers can tell us


Liliana Alvarez (University of Western Ontario, London) [email protected] Sherrilene Classen

Paper presentations : Community, Older Adult Physical Health

Introduction: In Western societies driving represents senior's primary mode of transportation, and as such it

symbolizes independence. Parkinson's disease (PD) is a common age‐related, progressive, neurodegenerative

disorder that can significantly impair driving. At‐risk drivers with PD need to be identified as earlier as possible in

order to access adequate driving assessment and intervention strategies. Objectives: To determine if clinicians,

caregivers and PD patients themselves can predict driving performance, compared to the Useful Field of View

(UFOV) (R) test, using the on‐road assessment as the gold standard. Methods: Drivers with PD (N=101) participated

in clinical and on‐road assessments. For each participant, we recorded the UFOV risk index (RI) and the driver/

neurologist/ caregiver risk impression (asking each if they think the driver will pass the on‐road test prior to taking

the test). We then regressed these variables (UFOV RI, driver/ neurologist/ caregivers' risk indexes) to on‐road

outcomes (using pass as the reference category). Results: Caregivers' risk index was the only significant predictor

of passing (N=82, OR=.04, CI=.004‐.415, p=.007). The odds ratio for the caregivers' risk index as a predictor of

passing was .004. This means that, with all other variables fixed, the odds of passing, if the caregivers predicts

passing, is .004 (4%) as great if the caregiver does not predict passing. Conclusions: Although recent studies have


focused on using clinical tests for at‐risk driving screening, caregivers may also be involved as a resource that can

help to promptly screen drivers with PD who are potentially at risk for failing an on‐road assessment.

T52 Photovoice as a strategy to promote client‐centred occupational therapy practice


Jacquie Ripat (University of Manitoba, Winnipeg) [email protected] Allison McBurney, Ashleigh

Schedler, Annaka Vermeylen


Introduction: Client‐centred practice is foundational to the profession and practice of occupational therapy.

Photovoice, a participatory research method using participant‐generated photographs to facilitate communication

and empowerment, is based on principles consistent with client‐centred values. Exploring photovoice as a strategy

to enrich client‐centered practice within occupational therapy has not been examined. Objectives: To investigate

the value of photovoice on the client‐centred relationship and rehabilitation experience from the perspectives of

clients and their occupational therapists within a rehabilitation setting. Methods: An embedded multiple (n=5)

case design was used: each case was comprised of one occupational therapist and three of his/her clients. Clients

were provided with a camera, asked to photograph meaningful aspects of their life, and to share the photographs

with their occupational therapist. Data were collected from participants via individual semi‐structured interviews

conducted pre‐ and post‐photovoice. Transcribed interviews were analyzed using thematic content analysis and

cross‐case synthesis. Results: Analysis of the first case revealed that photovoice enhanced the client‐centred

process and enriched the therapeutic relationship from the perspective of the clients and therapist. Clients

reinforced how the use of client‐centred approaches and behaviours on the part of the therapist were positive

contributors to their rehabilitation successes, and that the use of photovoice enhanced their client‐centred

experience. Data collection and analysis of the subsequent four cases is ongoing. Conclusion: Although client‐

centered practice is central to the occupational therapy profession, its application remains challenging. The use of

photovoice may be an additional strategy that can be used to enhance client‐centred practice and enrich

therapeutic relationships.

T53 Effectively juggling complexity: Developing necessary competencies in the contemporary

environment


Andrew Freeman (Université Laval, Quebec City) [email protected] Marie‐Claude Dubeau


Introduction : Occupational therapists practise in a highly complex contemporary environment. This complexity is

linked to several frequently‐associated elements, including clients' complex needs, the requirement to satisfy

multiple obligations to several stakeholders, and resource pressures and their related consequences. In this

environment, therapists have to judiciously exercise several competencies, including applying the normative basis

of practice, accounting for the influence of societal and practice contexts, ethical deliberation, and change agency.

These competencies presume ongoing reflexive practice. Effectively negotiating this complexity is a challenge for

all therapists but particularly so for future clinicians who are also consolidating their clinical competencies. This

very multidimensionality renders competency acquisition difficult. Objectives: The objective is to present a

learning module within an entry‐level occupational therapy programme in which these context and competency

elements are linked. Approach: The learning module includes three interconnected sections: (1) normative basis of

practice and critical analysis of the practice context, premised on the Institutional dimension orientation; (2)

ethical deliberation using Bolly and colleagues' (2004) narrative ethics approach; (3) professional practice in the

face of constraints (impact of context, transition to real practice, positioning oneself in the face of constraints).

Practice implications: As well as being potentially useful for other entry‐level programmes, this learning module

may be pertinent for the professional development of already‐practising therapists. Conclusions: It is essential to


help occupational therapists become equipped to provide the best service quality possible within a rapidly‐

changing, complex and challenging contemporary practice environment.

T54 Client centeredness in elder care: Learnings from Denmark


Tove Lise Nielsen (Aarhus University and VIA University College, Aarhus, Denmark) [email protected]

Poster defense : Community, Older Adult General

Introduction: In Denmark, government funded home help and community‐based rehabilitation services are offered

to senior citizens who struggle with performing daily activities. The intention is to improve clients' level of

functioning and quality of life while ensuring that intervention goals are decided through shared decision making.

However, in practice, the latter is frequently not supported by the organization, resulting in value conflicts for

therapists. Objectives: This study examines the outcome and process differences between practices where the

occupational performance issues are identified in a collaborative decision making process and those where the

issues addressed are chosen using a non‐client centred approach, more typical in most community organizations.

Methods: In this randomized controlled study, intensive, client‐centred occupational therapy (ICC‐OT) is compared

to usual non‐client‐centred practice (ususal care), using the Canadian Occupational Performance Measure as an

outcome measure. The ICC‐OT group (n=60), receives 11 weeks of occupational therapy addressing client‐chosen

performance issues. The usual‐care group receives a non‐client‐centred approach where independence in self‐care

and domestic chores are addressed. Results: Data analysis is in progress; preliminary findings suggest that the ICC‐

OT group chooses a wider range of activities than addressed through usual care, for example, leisure activities,

computer communication, and shopping. This suggests that usual care threatens the breadth of meaningful

occupations addressed, creating a potential for occupational injustices. Conclusions: occupational therapists ought

to be vigilant for the possibility that rehabilitation program practices create occupational injustice for senior

citizens.

T55 Identifying functional visual impairments in the pediatric brain injury population


Melanie DuMoulin [email protected] Alison Shier, Salma Kassam, Nick Reed, Anne Hunt

Poster defense : Institution, Child/Adolescent General

Introduction: An intact visual system is important for optimal engagement in activities of daily living. This system is

particularly vulnerable to the effects of brain injury due to its extensive connections within the brain. While

occupational therapists are skilled at identifying higher level visual‐perceptual impairments, the assessment of

basic visual skills may be overlooked. Impairments in these skills may result in poor performance on tests of visual

perception, leading therapists to incorrectly target areas for intervention. Currently, there is little known about the

extent of basic visual impairments in children and youth following brain injury. A better understanding of vision

impairments following brain injury in children and youth is needed to enable therapists to optimally target

interventions. Objectives: To identify the incidence and scope of vision impairment in a sample of children and

youth with brain injury; and to make recommendations for occupational therapist's vision assessment practices.

Methods: In a prospective, cross sectional study, all new admissions to inpatient and outpatient units at a

children's rehabilitation hospital completed a computer‐based vision screening assessment. Analysis was

completed using descriptive statistics. Results: Children and youth experience impairment in basic visual skills that

may affect the results of standard occupational therapy assessments of visual perception. Conclusions: Screening

for basic vision impairments should be considered by occupational therapists for children and youth following

brain injury or concussion. Results may help improve health service delivery in brain rehabilitation units.

T56 Leisure‐related physical activity is a determinant of better quality of life


Shahriar Parvaneh (University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation Sciences, Tehran, Iran) [email protected]


Elham Javadi, Neda Alizadeh, Setareh Ghahari

Poster defense : Community, Adult Physical Health

Introduction: Physical activity is as an effective way to improve quality of life and depression in individuals with

spinal cord injury (SCI) and prevent the other consequences of SCI. However, the relationship between type of

physical activity performed, which is of interest of occupational therapists, and quality of life and depression is not

determined. Objective: The aim of this cross‐sectional study was to investigate the relationship between type of

physical activity performed and quality of life and depression in individuals with SCI. Methods: Sixty people with

SCI who participated in the study completed the International Physical Activity Questionnaire, the12‐item Short

Form Survey and the Beck Depression Inventory. Results: There was a statistically significant relationship between

physical components of quality of life and three types of physical activity — work‐related, transport‐related and

leisure‐related (p<0.05). Total physical activity and type of physical activity were not significantly associated with

mental components of quality of life. Transport‐related physical activity (r = ‑0.299) was significantly but weakly

associated with depression. Work‐related physical activity was not correlated with depression or quality of life.

Regression models showed that only leisure‐related physical activity is a predictor for better quality of life and

lower depression. Conclusions: Although participating in physical activity in general is essential, the results of this

study showed that leisure‐related physical activity is the most vital type of physical activity for people with SCI.

Occupational therapists have the knowledge and skills to incorporate these results into rehabilitation programs of

people with SCI to improve their overall health.

T57 Building Resilient Occupational Therapy Students


Jill Stier (University of Toronto, Toronto) [email protected] Shayna Kulman‐Lipsey

Paper presentations : Education, Non‐specific to Client Group

Rationale: A growing number of occupational therapy (OT) students require support to ensure their ongoing health

and well‐being. Students may feel anxious and overwhelmed when faced with the heavy demands of OT programs.

There is growing evidence that today's students have been protected from adversity and failure and therefore may

not be as resilient at dealing with challenging circumstances. Literature indicates that support services help

students build resilience and provide relationships that that help to foster self‐esteem, competency, and

autonomy. University OT programs need to provide services to enable students to build resilience so they can

flourish and meet the challenging demands of OT programs. Objectives: This presentation will describe the

development and goals of a unique university service that builds OT students' resilience and offers support upon

enrollment in the OT program. Approach: A questionnaire designed to tap into students' health and well‐being,

learning needs, financial and housing issues will be discussed. Additionally, strategies that help to develop

supportive relationships through individualized student meetings with personal counselors will be described.

Practice Implications: Students with resilience will be well positioned to deal with adversity, and challenging

circumstances that occur in the university and practice settings. Conclusion: The development of an innovative

university service can enable students to have the capacity to become confident, competent OTs, ready for the

challenges of practice.

T58 Aboriginal Mothering: An Occupational Determinant of Health for Aboriginal Families


Alison Gerlach (University of British Columbia, Vancouver) [email protected]

CSOS paper : Community, Non‐specific to Client Group

Introduction: Prevailing racialized and colonial discourses, in which Aboriginal women are subjugated as uncaring

and incompetent mothers, persist in the normative fabric of our social and political world. As a form of structural

violence, these discourses erase the strengths, agency and resistance of Aboriginal women as mothers; ignore the

influence of broader structural inequities on mothering, and legitimize state surveillance and intervention in order

to 'protect' their children. This presentation interrogates and challenges this discourse by exploring Aboriginal


mothering as a critical occupational determinant of health for mothers and their children. Objectives: Participants

will increase their understanding of: (1) how Aboriginal mothering is shaped by structural inequities, and how

Aboriginal mothers: (2) resist 'negative definitions of being' by exerting their strengths, agency and resistance, and

(3) disrupt the forward movement of trauma and structural violence. Approach: This presentation draws on the

perspectives of critical occupational science, Indigenous feminist and postcolonial feminist scholarship, and the

presenter's doctoral research, in order to critically analyze Aboriginal mothering. Practice implications: Critical

analysis of Aboriginal mothering provides more nuanced and contextualized perspectives on the realities of this

complex occupation and foreground how Aboriginal mothers exert their agency and resistance particularly in

response to their experiences of trauma and structural violence. This has important practice implications for

programs serving Aboriginal mothers and children. Conclusions: This perspective provide a critical counter

narrative that affirms Aboriginal mothering as an occupational determinant that has a positive influence on the

health and wellbeing of both mothers and their children.

T59 Exploring Well‐being through Community Gardening


Melinda Suto [email protected] Neysa Hale, Ursula Stansfield


Introduction: Serious mental illness (SMI) negatively impacts many aspects of well‐being, including social inclusion,

health, and self‐efficacy. Mental illness can lead to decreased participation in occupations, compromised health,

and a reduced sense of belonging. Community gardening has been found to positively address these issues,

thereby having the potential to improve well‐being. However, little evidence exists that describes how community

gardening affects the well‐being of those living with SMI. Objectives: To describe what well‐being outcomes

participants attribute to their community gardening participation, and to examine how this occurs for individuals

living with SMI in the community. Methods: In year two of a community‐based participatory research project,

researchers recruited a purposeful sample of 8 adults with SMI living in supported housing and/or attending a

mental health resource centre. Participants selected fruit and vegetable plants to raise and a horticultural therapist

facilitated bi‐weekly sessions at two garden locations. Data collection involved semi‐structured interviews,

personal maps, participant observation, and a quality of life scale. A qualitative approach informed the thematic

analysis of interviews, transcribed verbatim, along with researchers' field notes. Results: Preliminary themes

indicate that: 1) community gardening fosters participants' social interactions and connections and, 2) community

gardening offers positive opportunities for occupational engagement in a safe environment. Conclusion:

Community gardening has the capacity to increase occupational participation and well‐being for those living with

SMI. It is an occupation with complex characteristics, processes and skill development options that can create a

sense of belonging and improve quality of life.

T60 Understanding the behind‐the‐wheel behaviour of older Canadians: A year‐to‐year comparison


Brenda Vrkljan (McMaster University, Hamilton) [email protected] Barbara Mazer, Isabelle Gélinas, Kinga

Eliasz, Yu‐Ting Chen, Jude Charlton, Sjaan Koppel, Shawn Marshall


Rationale: For seniors, access to transportation and, in particular, driving, has been identified as instrumental to

independence and remaining mobile within their community. Unfortunately, with age, people are more likely to

develop health problems that affect safety behind‐the‐wheel. Occupational Therapists are recognized as important

members of the health team when involved in clinical decisions concerning licensure. Objectives: To examine the

association between results on a standardized driving observation tool [electronic Driving Observation Schedule

(eDOS)] and pre‐driving physical and cognitive assessments (e.g., Montreal Cognitive Assessment, strength, range

of motion, Geriatric Depression Scale) in older Canadians. Methods: An observational study of 146 drivers aged

74+ years who drove in their own vehicle and neighbourhood (naturalistic). to 1‐3 locations (20‐30 min) from their

home. Their cars were outfitted with a 4‐camera video system. They were scored on driving environment (traffic


volume, speed, number of lanes) 5 different maneuvers (intersections, lane changes, free driving, low speed,

merging). An off‐road testing battery administered annually was also included in the analyses. The same protocol

was used with the same participants 9‐12 months after the first drive. Results: eDOS scores on the driving

environment/behavior were analyzed in association with performance on various functional tests). Findings

suggested a relationship between office‐based testing and behind the wheel performance, including the driving

environment and maneuvers. Conclusions: The eDOS tool, in combination with emerging evidence concerning the

predictive validity of office‐based measures, furthers our understanding of the relationship between aging, health,

functional ability, and the occupation of driving.

T61 Current therapy practices for children with cerebral palsy


Dana Anaby (McGill University, Montreal) [email protected] Nicol Korner‐Bitensky, Mary Law, Emma Steven,

Stephanie Tremblay

Paper presentations : Education, Child/Adolescent Physical Health

Introduction: While models in occupational therapy and the International Classification of Functioning, Disability

and Health (ICF) both emphasize participation in activities and the environment as a rehabilitation focus, the

extent to which these elements are integrated into practice is unclear. Objectives: To describe current therapy

practices for school‐aged children with cerebral palsy and verify whether they are congruent with recommended

practices. Methods: A Canada‐wide web‐based survey was completed by 123 occupational (50.4%) and physical

therapists to identify problems, assessments and treatment interventions of two vignettes. Data was coded based

on ICF components (body functions and structure; activity and participation; contextual factors) and differences

between professions were analysed using Fisher tests. Results: Occupational therapists focused on the 'activity and

participation' category (32%‐54%) when identifying problems, assessing and intervening; however, attention was

mainly directed towards task‐oriented activities such as activities of daily living (ADLs; dressing 33%‐55%), mobility

(gross motor skills 13%‐29%) and academics (writing 15%‐26%), rather than participation in leisure or community‐

based occupations (biking, hockey 7%‐14%). The environment consistently received the least attention for

problems and assessments, though it was the leading focus of intervention. In comparison to physiotherapists,

occupational therapists used significantly more assessments related to the environment and ADLs and were less

likely to direct their intervention towards body functions and structure. Conclusions: Some gaps between current

and best practices still exist. The relatively high focus on the environment in therapy intervention, by modifying the

context rather than changing aspects of the child, is in line with up‐to‐date approaches.

T62 Developing the role of Occupational Therapy in Intensive Care Units


Karen Azavedo (Toronto Western Hospital, Toronto) [email protected] Jameela Lencucha, Michelle Mohan


Introduction: Patients who are admitted to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) often have difficulties performing

activities of daily living, due to functional decline, acute illness and noted deficits in cognition. Currently, many of

the functional and cognitive deficits are under‐identified and/or not addressed in the ICU. Existing research

demonstrates the value of an Occupational Therapist (OT) as part of a multidisciplinary ICU team. The lack of an OT

within an ICU may have implications for occupational justice within the ICU and for these patients long term. There

has not been a dedicated ICU OT within our hospital due to insufficient resources and a perceived inability of these

patients to engage in occupational therapy. A pilot project was initiated to develop, implement and evaluate the

role of our ICU OT. Objective: To convey the process involved in the development, implementation and evaluation

of the role of OT in an area where OTs are underutilized. Approach: A proposal was developed, staff and patients

were educated, OT coverage was realigned and data was collected to inform a developmental evaluation. Practice

Implications: The process conveyed during this presentation should provide insights for future initiatives in other

hospitals and/or practice areas where evidence of the impact of OT may exist, but practical implementation and

application is limited by pre‐established models of care. Conclusions: When introducing roles in previously


underserved areas, practice changes and change in models of care are informed by change leadership, which

draws from existing evidence to develop new practice based evidence.

T63 Wheelchair Management in Acute Care: Clean and Ready


Patricia Erlendson (Vancouver Coastal Health, Vancouver) [email protected]

Poster defense : Institution, Adult Physical Health

Introduction: The occupational therapists in a large acute care hospital assumed responsibility for managing the

wheelchair fleet without appropriate supports or resources. Therapists identified difficulties in locating clean and

operational wheelchairs as the wheelchair storage area was cluttered with old and broken equipment stored solely

for parts and repair. The time spent searching for appropriate wheeled mobility equipment lead to delays in

patient mobilization and impacted discharge. Working within an infection control initiative significant changes

were put into place to manage the wheelchair fleet. Objectives: To describe the collaboration between

professional practice, facilities maintenance and infection control departments to facilitate prompt deployment of

wheelchairs to patients by developing processes that ensure wheelchairs are appropriately stored, cleaned and

maintained. The presentation will describe the steps taken to minimize clutter, centralize the equipment and

ensure effective cleaning and maintenance. Approach: The presentation will include a description of the inventory

management system, the cleaning and maintenance program and the controls placed on ordering equipment.

Centralized future ordering of wheeled equipment hopes to address both infection control concerns and

compatibility with current wheeled stock. Practice Implications: Appropriate wheelchairs must be available to

patients at all times to allow early mobilization and assist in their prompt discharge back to the community.

Conclusions: Working with multiple partners in an acute care setting assisted in securing ongoing financial support

for wheelchair repairs, succession planning for the wheelchair technician and assistance in future purchases of

multiple use wheeled mobility equipment.

T64 Community supports for parents of young children: A needs assessment


Leanne Leclair (University of Manitoba) [email protected] Marcia Finlayson

Poster defense : Community, Child/Adolescent General

Introduction: Given parents have far reaching influence on child development, parent support has gained an

increasingly important place on policy agendas internationally. Supporting parents of young children is an

important aspect of early intervention. However, assessment of parent support needs at a community level is

often inadequate and incomplete. Objectives: This study examined parents' and service providers' perspectives on

community support needs of parents with young children (newborn to 6 years old) in one community area.

Methods: Using the Concerns Report Method (CRM), Phase 1 consisted of interviews/focus groups with parents

(N=29) and service providers (N=11). Content analysis identified themes for Phase 2. A parent random sample

(N=319) and service provider convenience sample (N=47) completed an on‐line survey. In keeping with the CRM, a

Need Index score was calculated for each group. Results: Four themes emerged from the data: availability, barriers

and facilitators, parent/child transitions, and making connections. Parents' six highest priorities included childcare

(1,2,3), supports in community schools (4), preschool programs (5), and supports in one location (6). Service

providers had 15 priority areas. Four were similar to parents' priorities: child care (6, 12, 14) and supports in one

location (13) but were ranked differently. Conclusions: Parents and service providers did not share similar

perspectives on community support needs. Service planners need to consider that planning services based on the

perspectives of service providers alone can create barriers to engagement, if parents do not perceive a community

support will meet their needs. Without parent engagement, community supports cannot achieve their goals.

T65 Documentation and Chart‐stimulated recall: Reflecting and Affecting How We Practice



Rhona Anderson (Toronto Rehab, University Health Network, Toronto) [email protected] Debbie Hebert

Poster defense : Institution, Non‐specific to Client Group

Introduction: Occupational therapists are required to document their interactions for each client that they provide

service. Documentation, however, serves many purposes and is not only a reflection of our practice but also

influences how we practice. Occupational therapy practice leaders are often accountable for ensuring that

competent and best practices in documentation are followed. For this reason, leaders may audit health records to

learn about the documentation practices of the clinicians. Objective: This presentation will describe the use of

chart‐stimulated recall (CSR) as a method of conducting documentation audits, illustrate the process used by our

group as a model for other groups to consider, and provide a comparison of CSR with other methods of

documentation review. Approach: The occupational therapy leaders developed a process to use with our clinicians

after reviewing the literature and connecting with other academic and practice leaders who have experiential

knowledge about the use of CSR. We have implemented that approach with three patient care services, and will be

implementing it across the remaining services within the next eight months. Practice Implications: Occupational

therapists share positive feedback about the experience and learnings that result from participating in CSR overall,

though some constructive feedback has also been provided and modifications continue to be made. Leaders have

found its use to be informative concerning the state of documentation, current practice, and opportunities for

continuing professional development. Conclusion: Chart‐stimulated recall is a useful method to provide feedback

about occupational therapists' practice and to identify learning needs for professional growth.

T66 Living It All The Time: Students’ Perspectives of Professionalism


Theresa Sullivan (University of Manitoba, Winnipeg) [email protected] Andrea Thiessen


Introduction: Professionalism is a complex, socially‐constructed idea, dynamic over time and contexts, rendering it

difficult to learn and comprehend. Though characterized by the demonstration of values and behaviours, its

meaning has not been fully explored and remains tacit. Objectives: To explore how first and second‐year Master of

Occupational Therapy students conceptualize and understand professionalism. Methods: This qualitative pilot

study evolved from an interpretivist theoretical perspective. Convenience sampling was used to recruit four first‐

year and seven second‐year students from one entry‐level Canadian masters' program to participate in two

separate focus groups. Line‐by‐line constant comparison methods were used to analyze the data and identify

categories. To enhance trustworthiness, an audit trail, reflective journaling, peer debriefing, and member checking

were employed. Results: Data analysis of the first‐year focus group generated three categories: Searching for

Explicit Examples, Responsibility to the Profession, and Building and Fulfilling Societal Responsibility. Analysis of

the second‐year focus group yielded two categories: Professional Values and Behaviours and Professionalism as

Socially‐Constructed. Conclusions: Professionalism is a dynamic concept requiring nuanced understandings specific

to context. Students should be encouraged to develop reflective abilities which will allow them to analyze and act

in a way that is most appropriate for the situation. Understanding students' conceptualizations of professionalism

may allow occupational therapy regulators, managers, and academic and fieldwork educators to identify teaching

and research priorities. Future exploration is warranted to increase understanding of occupational therapy

professionalism in Canadian contexts, and the challenges learning and enacting professionalism poses to students.

T67 Occupational Transformation: Mothers of Children with Food Allergy Reconstruct Identity


Sandra VanderKaay (McMaster University, Hamilton) [email protected]


Rationale: Up to 550 million people worldwide experience food allergy (FA) and the incidence is increasing

annually (Fiocchi et al., 2011). As such FA has become a staggering global health issue with broad social and

economic implications. Currently the majority of people with FA are children and the disease has been shown to


create significant occupational disruption across their occupational repertoire. It has been suggested that the

occupations of mothers of children with FA may also be affected. However extensive engagement with the

literature exposed a paucity of relevant scientific inquiries into this claim. Objective: The purpose of this study was

to explore how mothers of children with FA use language to (re)construct their occupational identity as mother

secondary to their child's disease. Methods: The discursive psychology approach to discourse analysis was used to

analyze text of 6 on‐line blogs written by “allergy moms” (in vivo code). Discursive psychology posits that identities

can be constructed and expressed through language use in everyday talk/text (Jorgensen & Phillips, 2002).

Emergent themes reflect how mothers' occupational identity was reconstructed following a period of occupational

disruption due to their child's FA and how perceived occupational injustice shaped this identity. Results:

Implications of this small scale study for occupational science are twofold: results inform the understanding of

occupational transformation of mothers following a period of occupational disruption due to their child's FA and

results may contribute to the promotion of occupational justice for mothers whose occupational participation has

been limited by food allergy.

T68 Addiction: Occupation or disability? Looking at Canada’s Aboriginal population


Stephanie Zubriski (McMaster University, Hamilton) [email protected]


Introduction: The meaning and purpose of addiction is poorly understood. To empower people with addictions, an

understanding of the roles, meanings, and identities associated with addiction is crucial. Canada's Aboriginal

people are an example of an occupationally deprived group with an increased prevalence of addiction that may

benefit from occupational therapy intervention. Objectives: The objectives are to a) explore how occupational

therapy and disability theory can help occupational therapists understand a person's addiction and b) decrease

associated stigma and discrimination by considering addiction as something people do (their occupation) and as

something that may inhibit their ability to function successfully within society (a disability). Approach: Databases

and individual journals were selectively searched in June 2014. A set of guiding questions was used to synthesize

information about theories of occupations, disability, and addiction. Theories of occupation and disability are

presented as a framework to consider addiction. This framework is then applied to Aboriginal people in Canada.

Practice implications: Comprehending the meaning and purpose of addiction allows occupational therapists in this

field to gain a better understanding of clients and extend services to marginalized and oppressed populations.

Conclusions: The meaning of addiction is different for different people and varies throughout a lifetime. A

thorough appreciation of the unique environmental and personal factors contributing to addiction can help

decrease stigma and discrimination while also empowering people to overcome occupational injustice.

T69 Bridging the gap: Applying technology to improve occupational therapy access


Alexandria Simms (University of Manitoba, Winnipeg) [email protected] Gayle Restall

Extended discussion : Community, Adult General

Introduction: Occupational therapy delivered by real‐time technology, has potential to reduce injustice by

addressing barriers to accessing service, such as geographic distance, therapist shortages, and more. However,

using technology to deliver services remotely where therapist and client are in different locations, adds challenges

related to the person, occupation and environment, for both client and therapist. Objectives: Session participants

will (a) learn about evidence for adult occupational therapy delivered remotely via real‐time technology; (b) reflect

on, and discuss perceptions, resources and barriers to services delivered at a distance; (c) consider current

components of practice that may be appropriate for delivery using technology; (d) identify potential solutions to

facilitate occupational therapy delivered remotely. Approach: Results of a literature review of occupational

therapy delivered by real‐time technology will be presented. Participants will reflect on personal views and

experiences related to technology in practice. Small groups will discuss reflections, barriers, and potential

resources for using technology to improve access to occupational therapy in daily practice. The session will end


with sharing the key points discussed in small groups. Practice implications: Understanding the evidence for

delivering occupational therapy services remotely, reflecting on personal views and experiences, and participating

in group discussion of barriers and opportunities to apply technology in daily practice, will stimulate participants'

awareness, and solutions to improving access to occupational therapy services. Conclusions: Education,

collaboration and innovation are required to realize the potential benefits of technology for equitable access to

occupational therapy. Knowledge of current evidence, and reflecting on practice barriers and opportunities, is an

important first step.

T70 Clinical Predictors of Fitness to Drive Among Individuals with Parkinsons


Sherrilene Classen (The University of Western Ontario, London) [email protected] Jeffrey Holmes, Katherine Loew,

Ashley Mulvagh, Kayla Rienas, VIctoria Walton, Wenqing He


Introduction: Parkinson's disease (PD) is a complex progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by

motor, cognitive, and visual impairments, all of which can affect fitness to drive. Although on road assessment

results in one of four outcomes (Pass, Fail, Pass with Recommendations, or Fail with Recommendations), previous

research that has examined predictors of fitness to drive among individuals with PD has only utilized a Pass/Fail

decision system. As a consequence, there is currently no valid manner for clinicians to identify individuals within

either of the recommendation subgroups who may benefit from receiving rehabilitation services to improve or

preserve their fitness to drive abilities. Objective: To identify clinical characteristics that differentiate individuals

who fall under the following driving categories: i) Pass, ii) Pass with recommendations, and iii) Fail with

recommendations in comparison to drivers who fail an on‐road driving test. Methods: A large pre‐existing dataset

on driving (inclusive of on road test scores and a battery of clinical measures) from 99 drivers with PD was

examined. Clinical characteristics able to significantly differentiate group membership were identified using

spearman rho correlations and multinomial regression analyses. Results: The Trail Making Test Part B, Left Finger

to Nose Coordination and Contrast Sensitivity measures were identified as significant predictors for the Pass, and

Pass with recommendations subgroups. No significant predictors were identified for the Fail with

Recommendations subgroup. Conclusion: This research will enable clinicians to identify clients with PD who are at

risk drivers and who may therefore benefit from driving interventions.

T71 Do early neuromotor assessments predict motor outcomes in premature infants?


Jill Zwicker [email protected] Bailey Ross, Brielle Perler, Vann Chau, Steven Miller, Anne Synnes, Ruth Grunau

Paper presentations : Institution, Child/Adolescent Physical Health

Background. Infants born very preterm ( 32 weeks gestation) are at high risk of motor impairments, including

cerebral palsy and developmental coordination disorder (Edwards et al., 2011). The Neuromotor Score (Hanjal et

al., 1999) and Dubowitz Scale (Mercuri et al., 2003) are neurological assessments that are thought to indicate risk

for motor impairment, but data relating theses measures to outcomes of premature infants is limited. Purpose. To

determine whether the Neuromotor Score and Dubowitz Scale conducted early in life and at term‐equivalent age

predict motor outcomes of premature infants at 18 months corrected age (CA). Methods. In a prospective cohort

of 213 very preterm infants [median gestational age (GA) at birth: 27.9 weeks; median birth weight 1025 grams],

the Neuromotor Score and Dubowitz Scale were administered early in life (median GA: 32.0 weeks) and at term‐

equivalent age (median GA: 40.2 weeks). Infants were assessed with the Bayley Scales of Infant and Toddler

Development‐III and the Peabody Developmental Motor Scores‐2 at 18 months CA. Results. Data analysis will

examine neonatal variables and early neurological examinations as predictors of motor outcomes at 18 months CA.

Sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative predictive values of the Neuromotor Score and the Dubowitz

Scale will be calculated. Conclusions. Early neurological screening assessments may be useful for occupational

therapists to use in clinical practice. If accurate prediction of motor outcomes can be made early in life, premature

infants at risk of motor impairments can be identified early and rehabilitation intervention can be initiated.


T72 Leisure Participation in Children with Congenital Hand Anomalies


Ariane Montpetit (McGill University, Montréal) [email protected] Elise Orichefsky‐Turcotte,

Jefferson Dulay, Ahmed Abou‐Sharkh, Vasiliki Darsaklis, Nathalie Bilodeau, Barbara Mazer


Introduction: Leisure participation is important for health, well‐being and development in childhood, however,

children with disabilities participate less in these activities. While participation in children with disabilities has been

investigated, limited evidence is available for children with congenital hand anomalies (CHAs). Objectives: The

purpose of this study was to compare leisure participation of children with CHAs to children without disabilities,

and to investigate the potential factors of manual capacity, manual performance and parental overprotectiveness

on leisure participation. Methods: This cross‐sectional comparative pilot study included 15 children with CHAs,

aged 4‐17 years, and a matched control group without disabilities (matched on age and gender). Leisure

participation was measured using the Participation and Environment Measure for Children and Youth. Differences

between groups were analysed using paired t‐tests. Associations with potentially influencing factors were analyzed

with Pearson's correlations. Results: Groups differed on total frequency of leisure participation (p = 0.05), but not

other dimensions of participation (i.e. involvement, desire for change, environmental impact). No differences were

found in the specific settings of home, school and community between the two groups. For children with CHA, all

potential factors were weakly correlated to leisure participation, while moderate correlations were found for

parental overprotectiveness in the control group. Conclusions: While motor ability and environmental factors were

not closely associated with leisure participation, children with CHAs did participate less frequently. The results of

this study therefore support the need for holistic top‐down interventions in order to address barriers and achieve

greater participation in this population.

T73


Poster defense

T74 Do we need psychotherapy supervision?: A scoping review


Jeremy Wong [email protected] Jana Kiefl, Colleen Good, Sandra Moll

Poster defense : Education, Adult Psychosocial Health

Introduction: Psychotherapy approaches such as cognitive‐behavioural therapy and mindfulness training are

evidence‐based methods that are frequently used by occupational therapists, but therapists must build

competence to use them in practice. While supervision is an essential component of psychotherapy training, many

occupational therapists are not aware of supervision requirements and do not access ongoing supervision (Moll et

al., 2013). Clearer guidelines regarding standards and models of psychotherapy supervision are needed to build

supports for credible and competent practice within the profession. Objectives: The objectives of this scoping

study are to explore the breadth and depth of research on current practices and models for psychotherapy

supervision, focusing on the most common approaches used by occupational therapists, and to make

recommendations for building supervision supports within the profession. Methods: This scoping study will use the

five‐stage methodological framework developed by Arksey and O'Malley (2005). This process will include

identifying and selecting studies on psychotherapy supervision, charting, collating and summarizing the data, and

translating the findings into recommendations for education and practice. Practice Implications: Occupational

therapists in Ontario have recently been included as one of the regulated health professions authorized to practice

psychotherapy. Recommendations from this study will help occupational therapists build credibility for performing

this new controlled act, protect clients from unnecessary risks, and guide occupational therapy‐focused


supervision. Conclusions: Exploring the breadth and depth of research on psychotherapy supervision is important

for occupational therapists to build clinical competence and professional credibility.

T75 Applying a study of patient care experiences to occupational justice


Isabella K. S. Cheng [email protected] Helene Polatajko, Margaret Fitch

Paper presentations : Theory, Non‐specific to Client Group

Introduction ‐ Being a patient is a uniquely experienced occupation and people may encounter occupational

injustices when engaging in that occupation. Hospitals often use patient satisfaction surveys to evaluate patients'

care experiences. Many hospitals use the National Research Corporation Canada (NRCC) measurement firm to

deliver surveys containing closed‐ended questions and a commentary section. Patients' open comments in these

surveys present learning opportunities for organizations that may be applied to Occupational Therapy practice.

Objectives ‐ Objectives are two‐fold: first, to better understand what patients view as important to their care at an

academic health sciences centre; and second, to critically consider patients' views through an occupational justice

lens, in order to inform practice. Methods ‐ Patients' comments from NRCC inpatient care patient satisfaction

surveys were analyzed using the procedure of inductive category development, which closely links categories to

what patients reported. Resulting categories were then considered from an occupational justice perspective. Core

concepts and principles from occupational justice literature were applied to patients reported experiences.

Practice Implications ‐ Understandings about patients' inpatient care experience can lead to improvements in

quality healthcare delivery. Specific to occupational justice, patients' care experiences may provide insight into

how occupational therapists can better enable patients' rights to engage in occupations. Conclusions ‐ Central to

occupational justice is people's rights to experience meaning in their occupations, to be offered occupational

choices and to share in decision‐making that affects their daily lives. Occupational therapists' clients can benefit

when we view being a patient from an occupational justice perspective.

T76 The lived experience of transition from student to clinician


Andrea Dyrkacz (University Health Network ‐ Toronto Western Hospital, Toronto) [email protected] Rena

Arshinoff


Introduction: Previous small cohort studies by Tryssenaar and Perkins (2001) and Hodgetts, et al (2007), indicate

the transition from student to clinician is stressful and accompanied by the need for ongoing professional

development. A survey of a large, interprofessional cohort has the potential to expand the current understanding

of the transition experience, and the supports required by young clinicians. Objective: To learn about the

experience of transition from student to staff clinician across a range of healthcare disciplines. Method:

Occupational therapists, physiotherapists, registered dietitians, respiratory therapists, social workers, speech‐

language pathologists, and spiritual care professionals employed by a large, multi‐sited academic healthcare

organization were sent an electronic survey, seeking detailed information related to their academic, fieldwork, and

transition experiences. Results: Preliminary results (n=198) showed a 23.1% response rate within the first two

weeks of survey launch. Occupational therapists comprised 20.2% of early respondents. 66.1% of all respondents

indicated their academic preparation was good, very good, or exceptional. 86.5% felt adequately supported during

clinical fieldwork. Most indicated practice leaders and colleagues had realistic performance expectations, whereas

35.1% reported somewhat realistic or unrealistic self‐expectations. 66.7% stated no mentoring was offered; of

those, 88.7% said formal mentorship would have been beneficial, with 70.1% seeking out informal mentors.

Conclusion: Respondents felt academic preparation and fieldwork experiences prepared them to make the

transition from student to clinician. Although supportive practice leaders and colleagues were helpful, the lack of

formal mentoring impeded their clinical development. Final results will provide profession‐specific data and

recommendations to facilitate professional transition across allied health disciplines.


T77 Resisting Ageism and Enabling Senior Citizenship Through Social Media


Barry Trentham (University of Toronto, Toronto) [email protected]

CSOS paper : Community, Older Adult General

Rationale: Exercising citizenship is an occupational role often overlooked by occupational therapists, perhaps more

so, when applied to senior citizens. The participation of senior citizens in advocacy work, an example of a

citizenship occupation, contributes to occupational justice through healthy and inclusive public policy

development. However, ageism limits the participation of older adults in citizenship occupations effectively

silencing their voice. Social media, while often experienced as exclusionary and youth oriented by senior citizens,

has become a primary venue for political advocacy. Few models exist for how it can be used as an enabling tool for

senior citizen inclusion and advocacy. Objectives: This session identifies how ageism limits participation in

citizenship occupations, is reinforced in everyday social interactions, and can be resisted using social media.

Methods: Using a participatory action research (PAR) approach, this SSHRC funded study, in progress, asks how

social media can be used by a group of senior citizen advocates to resist ageism and advocate for age‐friendly

social policies. Results: Preliminary results suggest that (1) education, exposure, and training are required to

overcome concerns about privacy, safety, and the value of social media in the advocacy arena, (2) on‐going

organizational structural supports are needed, and (3) effective social media advocacy efforts require arts‐based

creativity. Conclusion: Ageism fosters occupational injustices as it limits occupational participation including how

seniors exercise citizenship occupations. Social media can be used as a way to strengthen the voice of senior

citizens, enabling their advocacy occupations while resisting ageist barriers to social participation.

T78 Use, Quality, and Justice Related to Mobile Device 'Apps'


Michael Ravenek [email protected] Liliana Alvarez, Jan Polgar


Introduction: The broad availability of smartphones and tablets has created a rising interest among therapists,

students and clients in the potential role of these devices in clinical practice. The use of 'apps' as rehabilitation or

assistive technologies is starting to gain traction. Increasingly, OTs are being required to determine the quality,

potential and limitations of rehabilitation apps (designed to increase function) and assistive technology apps (those

that work within an individual's existing function to increase performance). Objectives: To provide an overview of

this technology, its uses, benefits and drawbacks, as well as justice issues, in the context of occupational therapy

practice. After this overview, we will work to articulate a process of evaluating 'apps' within the Canadian

occupational therapy context. Approach: The content of this session is based on the clinical and teaching

experiences of the presenters and current research. Within the session, the audience will be invited to discuss

their own experiences and insights to develop this evaluation process. Practice implications: 'Apps' are becoming

an accessible means of helping to enhance client performance and engagement. Thus, 'apps' have important

implications for occupational justice issues, especially considering the cost of such programs are a fraction of more

traditional desktop‐based software. The benefits notwithstanding, consideration of the quality of these 'apps'

should be a central foci of therapists. Conclusions: Advances in mainstream smartphone and tablet technology

have moved health care professionals, including OTs, into a position where we now must evaluate the potential of

this technology in clinical practice.

T79 Role of the Occupational Therapist in Driver Rehabilitation Post Stroke


Michael Cammarata (Hotel Dieu Shaver Rehabilitation Center, St. Catharines) [email protected] Jocelyn

Harris, Brenda Vrkljan, Alexander Crizzle



Introduction: Driving enables people to participate in occupations that are meaningful in their community. After

stroke, sensory, motor and/or cognitive deficits can impact behind‐the‐wheel performance. While Stroke Best

Practices (July, 2013) specifically mention 'return to driving' as a key focus for life roles and activities, little is

known about the exact practices undertaken by occupational therapists. Objectives: To document the assessment

and intervention practices of occupational therapists working with clients after stroke specific to the occupation of

driving. Clinical strengths and gaps were identified. Methods: A structured interview was conducted with OTs

(n=14) from 3 major hospitals designated as Centres of Excellence in stroke care in southern Ontario. Results: All

participants (100%) utilized key assessment tools congruent with best practice recommendations (e.g., Trail

Making A/B, Motor Free Visual Perception Test, Montreal Cognitive Assessment; letter cancellation). However,

across sites, the duration and number of sessions focused on returning to driving differed (mean treatment time=

30 minutes; 2x/week for 6 weeks). Approaches to intervention also varied within and across sites that can be

organized under four major themes: Driving simulators (7/14; 50%), Dynavision Training (5/14; 36%), computerized

games (6/14; 43%), and pen and paper activities (5/14; 100%). All participants identified the need for an organized,

consistent intervention approach that is evidence‐based to encourage a successful return to driving. Conclusions:

By understanding current practices in this field, we can identify as well as track outcomes specific to driving and

community mobility after stroke. Strategies to do so will be discussed.

T80 Feasibility of the Canadian Occupational Performance Measure in Primary Care


Catherine Donnelly (Queen’s University, Kingston) [email protected] Colleen O'Neill, Martha Bauer,

Lori Letts


Introduction: Growing numbers of occupational therapists are working on interprofessional primary care teams.

With a strong emphasis on outcomes and evaluation in primary care it is critical to identify outcome measures that

are both meaningful to clients and team members, and feasible to use. The Canadian Occupational Performance

Measure (COPM) is congruent with client‐centred philosophies of both occupational therapy and primary care;

however no research has examined the COPM in a primary care setting. Objectives: To understand how the COPM

can be used in primary care. Methods: A mixed methods design was implemented in two phases. Phase one

involved the administration of the COPM to all patients who were expected to receive occupational therapy

intervention. A focus group with participating occupational therapists was conducted in phase two to explore the

feasibility of using the COPM. Results: The COPM was administered to 161 consecutive patients over 10 months,

with 23 being re‐administrated. Patients identified a total of 658 occupational performance issues. Self‐care

activities were identified most frequently (37%), followed by productivity (35%) and leisure (27%). Despite positive

experiences in COPM use to identify occupation, therapists experienced challenges identifying appropriate timing

for re‐assessment. Conclusions: The strength of the COPM in a primary care setting was the focus on occupation

and function rather than medical symptoms. Given the lifespan approach and emphasis on screening and

assessment in primary care, the challenge was finding an opportunity for re‐administration. The COPM was valued

to guide initial assessments and intervention and offer an occupation‐focused lens.

T81 Appraising religious coping in adults with serious mental illnesses


Maeleen Brown [email protected]

Poster defense : Theory, Adult Psychosocial Health

Introduction: Approximately 2% of Canadians have serious mental illnesses such as schizophrenia and bipolar

disorder (Mood Disorders Society of Canada, 2009). A commonly used method to manage challenges associated

with SMI is religious coping: the use of religion (i.e. the values, habits, beliefs, relationships) as a resource during

times of stress (Pargament & Brant, 1998). Occupational therapists identify spirituality as a central component to

the person and therefore crucial to client‐centered care, however, many therapists feel ill equipped to address

religious and spiritual topics with their clients, leaving a large gap between knowledge and practice. Standard


measures, such as the RCOPE (Pargament, Koenig & Perez, 2000) may help reduce this gap. Objectives: To conduct

a critical literature review or studies to evaluate the use of the RCOPE among populations of adults with serious

mental illnesses as a measure of religious coping. Methods: A variety of databases were searched according to

predetermined inclusion and exclusion criteria. Selected articles were then evaluated with the McMaster tools.

Results: Five studies were selected for review. All studies found a prevalence of religious coping among

participants with positive religious coping playing a constructive role in illness management. However, studies

were limited by their design and samples. Conclusions: Religious coping is a frequently used coping method among

adults with serious mental illnesses. While further study of the RCOPE with this population is warranted, this study

found the RCOPE to be an appropriate tool for occupational therapists to address religious coping with adults with

serious mental illnesses.

T82 Knowledge Translation of a Wheelchair Skills Program for Rehabilitation Clinicians


Paula Rushton (University of Montreal, Montreal) [email protected] William C Miller, R Lee Kirby, Louise

Demers, Linda Boronowski, Sarah Rowe, Nigel Kam, Grant Huston, Sarah Sinanan


Introduction: Many people use wheelchairs for mobility. To enable safe wheelchair use and enhance one's ability

to participate in chosen daily occupations, wheelchair skills assessment and training are important elements of the

wheelchair procurement process. However, clinicians are not consistent with the delivery of these practices (Best,

2014), despite availability of the Wheelchair Skills Program (WSP) (Dalhousie University, 2014). Objectives: To

design and implement a WSP knowledge translation (KT) intervention and to evaluate: (1) the feasibility of

implementing the KT intervention and (2) the KT intervention outcomes. Methods: This study uses a pre‐post

repeated measures design. Participants are clinicians who work at GF Strong Rehabilitation Centre with at least six

months of wheeled mobility clinical experience. The 20‐week WSP KT intervention involves: interactive educational

workshops, clinical champions, a website, educational outreach, and organizational support. Feasibility will be

evaluated over the course of the study using process (e.g., participant recruitment and retention rate), resource

(e.g., clinical champion adherence), and intervention (e.g., intervention response) outcomes. KT intervention

outcomes will include measures of knowledge acquisition, knowledge use, and self‐efficacy and will be assessed at

pre‐intervention and within 1 week, 6 and 12 months post intervention. Results: Preliminary analyses indicate that

the WSP KT intervention is feasible to implement in a rehabilitation setting, and that it improves WSP knowledge

acquisition, knowledge use, and self‐efficacy. Conclusions: This study will advance best practice in the area of

wheelchair skills testing and training by helping to bridge the gap between evidence and practice among

rehabilitation clinicians.

T83 Echoing Youth Perspectives: Validating a Youth‐Report Measure of Participation


Sumaira Mazhar (McGill University) [email protected] Kelly White, Nina Li, Jane Moyse, Sarah

Messina, Isabelle Cormier, Dana Anaby


Introduction: When measuring participation in occupations, an essential factor in youth development and well‐

being, capturing youth's subjective experience is critical. Self‐reported participation‐based assessments are

therefore needed. Objectives: To elicit youth's perception of the Participation and Environment Measure for

Children and Youth (PEM‐CY), a parent‐report measure, as a tool to capture self‐perceived participation, and to

examine the content of the PEM‐CY for clarity of items and relevancy of examples for a youth version. Methods:

Ten youth (n=6 with, n=4 without disability) aged 12 to 17 participated in a two‐phase mixed‐methods study.

Phase 1 included individual interviews during which participants (n=5) completed and reflected on the PEM‐CY,

and evaluated relevancy of examples and clarity of items using Visual Analogue Scales (VAS). Themes and average

scores were extracted from phase 1 data. Phase 2 involved a discussion group (n=5), in which results from phase 1

were presented and discussed for further validation. Results: There was consensus for developing a youth‐report


version of the PEM‐CY. Two of the four themes, a field of strengths and the wisdom of youth, illustrated supportive

perspectives. The remaining themes, conceptual confusion and innovative recommendations, illustrated areas

requiring consideration. Mean VAS scores for clarity (7.7/10) and relevancy (7.9/10) supported the qualitative

findings. The discussion led to final changes and addition of new examples to the PEM‐CY. Conclusions: While all

participants supported the development of a self‐report version of the PEM‐CY, further research is needed to

validate recommended changes and, consequently, promote meaningful and inclusive participation for youth.

T84 Parent and Healthcare Provider Perceptions of Family‐Centered Services


Lauren Silver (McGill University) [email protected] Giovanni Arcuri, Andrea McMullan, Anna Murray,

Melanie Bergthorson, Noemi Dahan‐Oliel, Franzina Coutinho

Poster defense : Administration Health Policy, Child/Adolescent General

Introduction: Family‐centered services are considered best practice in pediatric rehabilitation and describes

philosophies and approaches to medical care that emphasize the partnership and involvement of parents. While

evidence supports FCS, there are complexities to successful FCS practice. Objectives: Existing literature supports

the theory of FCS while also outlining barriers to its implementation. This mixed‐methods study aimed to measure

the extent to which parents and HCPs perceive service provision as being family‐centered, and to describe parental

and HCP experiences of care in order to identify features of FCS. Methods: Parents of children participating in a

rehabilitation programme and HCPs providing services participated in this study. Parents completed the MPOC‐20

and participated in interviews, while HCPs completed the MPOC‐SP and participated in a focus group. Results:

Quantitative analysis revealed that parents were mostly satisfied with features of FCS, which included

communication and support between parents and HCPs, respect of diversity, and parental collaboration and

participation. Parents identified communication methods and psychosocial needs as areas that facilitated FCS, but

sometimes detracted from FCS. Areas for improvement were related to information provision, both within the

MPOC‐20 and the interviews, and are associated with institutional barriers. HCPs identified more areas of

improvement than parents. Conclusions: When considering these barriers, it is evident that implementation is a

complex process, impacted by institutional barriers. FCS needs to be investigated further, and systemic

interventions should be used to facilitate the implementation of FCS.

T85 Supporting Healthy Communities through Collaboration: Rural health and recreation partnerships


Heidi Lauckner [email protected] Susan Hutchinson, Martha Barnes


Introduction: Finding ways to support adults living with chronic conditions to better self‐manage their health

outside the health system is imperative for overburdened health systems. Promoting active community

involvement in meaningful recreation and volunteer opportunities is one way to accomplish this aim. Objectives:

Through participatory, community‐based knowledge sharing activities, we aimed to strengthen collaborations

between healthcare and recreation providers, organizations and systems in order to more effectively promote

meaningful community participation by adults living with chronic conditions in rural communities. Approach:

Following a scoping review and environmental scan of innovative initiatives that promote community participation

amongst people living with chronic conditions, informal community consultations with people living with chronic

conditions were conducted, and a community workshop that brought together health, recreation and volunteers

sectors was held (n=57 participations). An occupational justice lens was used to deepen our understanding of ways

to promote meaningful community participation. Practice Implications: Through these community conversations,

the strengths and challenges of promoting community participation within these rural communities were explored,

strategies for strengthening partnerships were developed, and social supports were identified as a priority for

these communities. Although this workshop was intended as a first step towards generating interventions for

promoting community engagement, we came to recognize that the opportunity to participate in such a workshop

was itself an intervention that promoted meaningful engagement and strengthened social networks. Conclusions:


Community‐based knowledge sharing activities, such as this community workshop, can provide a valuable

foundation for strengthening collaboration between health and recreation sectors and can provide a venue for

strengthening both organizational and individual networks.

T86 Thinking critically about ‘normal’ occupation across the lifespan


Gail Teachman (University of Toronto, Toronto) [email protected] Janet Njelesani, Yani Hamdani, Evelyne

Durocher, Shanon Phelan


Introduction: In client‐centred practice, occupational therapists consciously attend to the values and beliefs of

individual clients, but they less often consider the broader socio‐political contexts that shape their clients' and

their own individual perspectives. Certain types of occupations are 'normally' expected of individuals at particular

life stages [1]. Unreflective practice risks limiting clients' occupational possibilities by perpetuating beliefs that

place a high value on some occupations, while devaluing or negating others [2]. Objective: In this presentation, we

draw attention to the ways that privileging certain types of occupations can unintentionally marginalize some

clients and can reinforce practices aimed toward approximating 'normal'. Approach: Guided by a critical

occupational approach [3], we use examples from research with children, youth and older adults to illustrate how

therapists and clients reproduce or reformulate normative understandings about which occupations are

appropriate and expected at various life stages. We share a series of guiding questions that occupational therapists

might use to reflect on occupational possibilities in their own practice. Practice Implications: Being client‐centered

can and should include consideration of the ways that dominant social values shape clients' occupational choices

and opportunities. Therapists can advocate for change in thinking about occupational possibilities by creating

space for discussions about a wider range of positively valued ways of doing, being, and becoming. Conclusion: We

suggest that ongoing critical reflexivity provides a frame for therapists, together with their clients, to embrace

difference and disability as possibilities for flourishing that would be missed altogether in the pursuit of normality.

T87 Executive Function in Young Children‐ Adding to the OT toolkit


Karen Penner (Child Development Clinic / University of Manitoba, Winnipeg) [email protected]

Extended discussion : Education, Child/Adolescent General

Introduction: Executive function (EF) is a cluster of cognitive control skills, critical to early school, social, and life

success. Core EF components emerge in the preschool years, providing a unique window for support of at‐ risk

young children with self‐regulation, behavior, or early learning difficulties. Objectives: The Objectives of this

session are to 1) introduce a hierarchical model of EF in young children, 2) explore strategies to identify and

address executive dysfunction as it first emerges, and 3) create a practical resource for clinicians interested in this

emergent area of practice. Methods: The session will begin with a 20 minute presentation followed by a small

group interactive learning experience, in which participants will be guided in development of a written resource

summarizing strategies and aides to enhance attention, working memory, inhibitory control, and/or cognitive

flexibility in young children. Participants will work in groups, sharing their expertise to generate a practical tool

that will be later summarized and emailed to participants. Practice implications: Executive dysfunction occurs

across clinical populations, and as such, the addition of assessment and management strategies for young children

is an important component to the pediatric OT toolkit. This session aims to foster knowledge, practical skills, and

networking opportunities to advance clinical practice. Conclusion: The explosion of literature on the importance of

EF to child development and mental health affirms this is a critical practice areas for OTs, who offer a diversity of

approaches helpful to children at risk and their caregivers.

T88 TBA



[email protected]

Sponsored Session

T89 Reconsidering prematurity: Exploring the occupational repertoires of children born premature


Melody Chan (University of Toronto, Toronto) [email protected] Joanne Wincentak, Laura Cooper,

Jane Davis, Helene Polatajko


Introduction: The occupational therapy literature has focused, almost exclusively, on the cognitive, emotional, and

motor deficits of very and extremely preterm children. Discussion of occupational performance and engagement,

seen by occupational therapists as essential to a child's healthy development and social participation, is virtually

absent from this literature. Considering prematurity from an occupational perspective could provide important

new insights into the occupational repertoires and needs of these children. Objectives: The objective of this study

is to describe the occupational repertories of 7‐year‐old children born very and extremely preterm with a

particular focus on their social participation. Methods: This study will use a two‐staged sequential mixed method

design. Child participants will be recruited from a neonatal follow‐up clinic. First, to describe the occupational

repertoire, the child participants will complete an online version of the Pediatric Activity Card Sort. Second, based

on this initial sample, 10 to 12 child participants will be recruited using maximum variation sampling to participate

in one interview in hopes of understanding their perspectives of their occupational repertoires. Data from the

Pediatric Activity Card Sort will be analyzed using descriptive statistics and thematic analysis will be used to explore

patterns across the children's perspectives. FINDINGS: The findings will provide an initial understanding of the

occupational repertoire of very and extremely premature children and explore their perceived occupational needs.

Conclusions: Understanding the occupational repertoire and needs of the very and extremely preterm population

will enable occupational therapists to better serve this population and promote healthy occupational

development.

T90 Provision of assistive technology: Partnering with caregivers for better outcomes


Michelle Plante (Montreal) [email protected] William B. Mortenson, Jeffrey Jutai, Marcus Fuhrer,

Claudine Auger, Louise Demers

Poster defense : Community, Older Adult Physical Health

Introduction: Informal caregivers provide 80% of the assistance required by older Canadians living with acute and

chronic disabilities. Properly prescribed assistive technology (AT) can increase users' independence and thus

decrease caregivers' burden, but it also may change how the latter provide care and alter the environment they

share. Therefore, informal caregivers' involvement in the AT provision process is critical. Objectives: To describe

the development of a systematic approach to the provision of AT, which includes both users and informal

caregivers in decision‐making. Methods: The approach was developed in four phases: i) consulting with four

occupational therapy (OT) clinicians, ii) defining key intervention steps, Objectives and intervention activities; iii)

piloting the approach with two user‐caregiver dyads, and iv) adjusting the Objectives and activities. Results: The

approach developed is a five‐step process (identification of a problem activity, exploring strategies, choosing AT,

training, evaluating the solution), which includes five specific intervention Objectives (e.g., to make a joint decision

to adopt an AT strategy) and 20 intervention activities (e.g., to discuss mutual references in ways of doing things).

Conclusions: We propose a systematic approach for involving informal caregivers in the AT provision process. It

allows OTs to take into account the complex needs of users and their caregivers. Currently, a controlled clinical

trial is underway comparing this approach to AT provision with customary care.

T91 Reliability of the Wheelchair Skills Test for Power Wheelchair Users



Kimberly Low (University of British Columbia) [email protected] Emma Smith, William Miller


Introduction: Wheelchair skill assessments are an essential component of determining an individual's wheelchair

proficiency, safety and independence levels, as well as guiding and evaluating interventions. The Wheelchair Skills

Test (WST) is a performance‐based assessment of functional wheelchair mobility used in research and clinical

practice. The WST for manual wheelchair users has been found to be reliable and valid; however, it is necessary to

also establish the reliability of the current WST for power wheelchair users (WST‐P 4.2) to justify its use.

Objectives: To evaluate inter‐rater and intra‐rater reliability of the total performance scores of the WST‐P 4.2.

Methods: Videos of adults performing the tasks required in the WST‐P 4.2 will be scored by occupational therapists

(raters) trained to use the assessment. Reliability will be determined by using intraclass correlation coefficients.

Practice implications: We anticipate the WST‐P 4.2 will have good to excellent inter‐rater and intra‐rater reliability

in alignment with published reliability estimations for previous manual versions of the assessment. Establishing the

reliability of the WST‐P 4.2 ensures that the current version of the assessment may be used confidently with

consistent results between testers and within testers for clinical practice and research. Conclusions: This study is

the first to establish the reliability of the power wheelchair version of the WST. ICCs for the reliability of the WST‐P

will be reported.

T92 Current role of occupational therapy in cancer care: Scoping review


Tricia Morrison [email protected] Elnaz Saleh, Elsa Fougere, Anik Pitre D'Irio

Poster defense : Community, Non‐specific to Client Group

Introduction: Cancer and its associated life‐saving treatments can produce physical, emotional, cognitive, and

spiritual implications. It has been reported that some of these impairments are not appropriately addressed, thus

creating unmet needs and a diminished quality of life of survivors. Objective: This scoping review aims to highlight

the current occupational therapy roles in cancer care as identified by the literature. Methods: The scoping review

was completed using peer‐reviewed and non peer‐reviewed articles and grey literature published from 1980

through 2013 as well as websites and textbooks. Sources that were included had to mention existing occupational

therapy roles specifically related to cancer care. A total of 58 articles, including grey literature, 45 websites, and

nine textbooks met the inclusion criteria. Results: Occupational therapy roles in cancer care were identified and

organised into three themes: the cancer survivor, the environment, and meaningful activities and occupations.

Conclusions: According to the literature, occupational therapy contributes many different roles in cancer care, with

all types and stages of cancer. However, many of the identified roles and interventions were not described in

enough detail to allow for clinical replication. Additionally, the effectiveness of mentioned interventions was often

unclear or omitted. Thus, future research regarding the descriptions and effectiveness of interventions in addition

to a full systematic review to analyze the quality of such studies would be a gain for the fields of occupational

therapy and oncology.

T93 Evidence for the occupational enablement of children with neurodevelopmental disorders


Rose Martini (University of Ottawa, Ottawa) [email protected] Christina Lamontagne, Debra Cameron, Désirée

Maltais, Mary Stergiou‐Kita, Helene Polatajko


Introduction: Occupational therapists frequently use a "try everything" approach when treating children with

neurological disorders due to a lack of evidentiary clarity. While this may seem harmless, it can be unnecessarily

costly and produce undesired effects. Objective: The aim of this systematic review is to examine the recent

literature for new evidence of effectiveness of occupational therapy interventions for children with

neurodevelopmental disorders, specifically cerebral palsy, acquired brain injury, developmental coordination

disorder, and autism. Method: Eleven data bases (MEDLINE, EMBASE, AMED, CINAHL, ERIC, Psych Info, Scopus,


Cochrane, OT Seeker, OTDBase, PEDro) were searched from 2010 to 2013. Studies were selected if i) participants

included children (2‐18 years), ii) the outcomes were at the task, activity or occupation level of the taxonomic code

of occupational performance, iii) either an occupational therapist was associated with the study (as an author or

an interventionist) or the article appeared in an occupational therapy journal. Articles were then reviewed to

determine the level of evidence: i.e. systematic reviews, randomized controlled trials or pre‐post studies, or single‐

subject design studies. Finally articles were grouped by intervention, the quality of each article was appraised and

data were extracted to determine effectiveness. " Results: 121 articles were retained, reporting evidence on 25

intervention approaches. An analysis of the quality of evidence is forthcoming Conclusion: The results of this

review will support occupational therapists' need to be informed about the most effective interventions in order to

enable children with neurodevelopmental disorders to participate in their occupations.

T94 Occupational Therapy Practice at the Community Level


Leanne Leclair (University of Manitoba) [email protected] Heidi Lauckner, Cynthia Yamamoto

Paper presentations : Community, Non‐specific to Client Group

Introduction: Occupational therapists are in a prime position to work with vulnerable populations to promote

occupational justice in various communities. Community development (CD) is an approach that occupational

therapists could use to work with communities. Despite efforts to advance occupational therapy's contribution to

CD in Canada, occupational therapists report limited skills and knowledge enabling occupation at the community

level. Objectives: The purpose of this study was to build upon the Canadian Practice Process Framework (CPPF)

(Townsend 2) Cultivating networks and relationships; 3) Creating safe occupational spaces; 4) Planning

responsively with the community; and 5) Building skills and local leadership. Conclusion: This study has generated

a framework describing occupational therapists experiences working with communities. It augments the steps of

the CPPF by illustrating the less structured, more flexible and nuanced approaches occupational therapists use in

CD. Occupational therapists who engage in CD could use this framework to guide practice.

T95 What moves us: Embodiment, creating significant experience, and occupational justice


Melissa Park (McGill University, Montreal) [email protected] Keven Lee


Introduction: Core philosophical assumptions in occupational therapy hold that humans must have opportunities

to do and create (Meyer, 1922), through which we influence the state of their own health and cultivate a sense of

belonging to larger communities (Reilly, 1962). These assumptions relating engagement in occupation, health, and

social inclusion are evident in the dialogue on occupational justice (Townsend & Wilcock, 2004). Objectives: In this

paper, we will (1) introduce theory on cultural practices—for example, how what we do is an embodiment of, and

tacitly reproduces, the very social structures that determine our positions (Bourdieu, 1977; Foucault, 1975/1995);

(2) raise questions on any easy correlation between access to or engagement in occupations and health; and (3)

examine occupational justice at the intimate level of human experience. Methods: We will use a narrative‐

phenomenological interpretive approach (Desjarlais & Throop, 2011; Jackson, 1998; Lawlor, 2009; Mattingly, 2010,

2014) to examine experiences which will be drawn from an ethnography of clinical encounters in an occupational

therapy practice, a mixed methods implementation study of a movement based intervention, and a participatory

project to design recovery‐oriented services. Results: “What moves us”[1]—figuratively and literally—may be a key

element in creating the type of experiences that transcend, and sometimes transforms, socially‐determined

positions. Conclusions: A micro‐analytic focus on embodiment and emergent experience can be used to support

emerging theory on, and practice for, occupational justice.

T96 ACOTRO Sponsored Session ‐ Do you know where to draw the line? Managing professional

boundaries



[email protected]

Sponsored Session

Are you confident that you could identify a professional boundary violation or assess the risk of a potential

violation in yourself or others? Do you know how to avoid crossing a boundary or how to proceed when a

boundary violation occurs? OT’s will learn how sound, ethical practice builds a platform for the management and

prevention of professional boundary violations. This session will focus on real situations faced by Canadian OTs

such as using social media or practicing in a rural setting. Learn about regulatory requirements and practical

strategies to avoid boundary crossings in every day practice.

T97 Writing for Occupational Therapy Now: Your practice magazine


Janna L. MacLachlan, OTNow Managing Editor [email protected]

Sponsored Session : Education, Non‐specific to Client Group

Occupational Therapy Now (OT Now) is the Canadian Association of Occupational Therapists’ practice magazine. It

publishes a variety of articles that relay practical information and association news to help advance excellence in

occupational therapy practice, policy, research and education. This session, aimed at supporting and encouraging

potential authors (including front‐line practitioners, academics, students and consumers), will provide an overview

of OT Now and its submission and review processes. Participants will learn about the types of articles that may be

submitted, including case studies, personal reflections, descriptions of programs, applications of recent research

and theory, and discussions of socio‐cultural, political and economic influences on occupational therapy practice in

Canada. OT Now’s mentoring style of review will be discussed; the aim of this style is that everyone feels welcome

to submit to their national practice magazine. Submission tips and ways to overcome common challenges will be

presented. Finally, OT Now will be contrasted with the Canadian Journal of Occupational Therapy with explanation

of how authors are encouraged to write for both publications.

T98 Parents’ experience using CO‐OP with their child outside intervention sessions


Julie Capistran (University of Ottawa, Ottawa) [email protected] Josée Venne, Rose Martini

Paper presentations : Community, Child/Adolescent Physical Health

Introduction: CO‐OP with children with DCD has been shown to be effective for improving the performance of

tasks worked on directly, as well as increase children's use of cognitive strategies. Parent involvement is a key

feature of the CO‐OP approach, so as to foster generalisation and transfer of learning. A previous study, conducted

in the context of a four‐day summer day‐camp, reported that parents experienced difficulties incorporating the

CO‐OP approach at home. Some of the issues identified related to the day‐camp context. Objective: The aim of this

study was to describe parents' experience with applying CO‐OP while their child participated in a typical individual

COOP intervention format (10 weekly sessions). Methods: A narrative inquiry approach was used. Five families (2

single parents and 3 couples) of children with DCD (7‐12 years) who participated in individual CO‐OP intervention,

were interviewed on two occasions: at one week post intervention and at four weeks follow‐up. All interviews

were audio recorded, transcribed, and analyzed using plot‐solution and three‐dimensional space narrative

elements. Results: Analysis is ongoing, but preliminary results point to four emerging themes: i‐ It's a work in

progress, ii‐ Asking the RIGHT question, iii‐It's a question of timing, iv‐ Involve us in the therapy. Conclusion:

Emerging themes appear to be generally in line with those found in the day‐camp study. These findings shed some

insight on what may influence the implementation of CO‐OP by parents.

T99 Workplace discrimination and stigma towards working age cancer survivors


Hau Ki (Karen) Yau (Toronto) [email protected] Xueqing (CC) Qie, Sally Lindsay, Mary Stergiou‐Kita



Rationale: Advancements in cancer treatments has increased the life expectancy of cancer survivors and the

number of survivors who continue to work or return to work following cancer. One key challenge to successful

employment is the stigma and discrimination that survivors experience in the workplace. Yet, despite reported

challenges with discrimination little is understood about how stigma presents in the workplace and how this

influences survivors return to work processes and outcomes. Objectives: 1) To complete a scoping review of cancer

survivors’ (ages 15‐65) perceptions and experiences of stigma and discrimination and how this impacts their

abilities to return to, remain in, or secure paid employment. 2) To identify strategies or approaches that address or

mitigate discrimination and stigma towards cancer survivors at the workplace. Methods: A scoping review will be

conducted using the Arksey and O’Malley’s (2005) framework and will involve using search terms such as

“neoplasms”, “workplace”, and “discrimination” in multiple databases (e.g. MEDLINE and EMBASE). Information

about perceptions and strategies that mitigate workplace discrimination and stigma will be extracted from

relevant English language articles, and analyzed through descriptive numerical summary and thematic analysis.

Practice Implications: Findings will be used to: i) enhance healthcare providers’ understanding of workplace

discrimination and stigma following cancer, ii) educate healthcare providers as to strategies that can mitigate

discrimination and stigma at the workplace, and iii) identify gaps for future research. Conclusion: Awareness and

solutions for workplace discrimination for cancer survivors can improve their ability to engage in, and maintain

paid employment.

T100 Women with Learning Difficulties in the Criminal Justice System


Elly Park (University of Alberta, Edmonton) [email protected]


Introduction: Young women with learning difficulties are over‐represented in the criminal justice system (CJS).

They are more likely to be arrested, charged, sentenced, incarcerated, and re‐incarcerated (Hayes, 2007).

Objectives: In this narrative inquiry I focus on the experiences of women who have learning difficulties and have

been incarcerated in the past. Narrative inquiry research appreciates the capacity of an individual's life stories to

disrupt and shift the dominant discourse in disability and rehabilitation communities (Clandinin & Raymond, 2006).

Methods: From 2013‐2014, I met with four women, ages 20‐29, currently living in a western Canadian city. We

engaged in ongoing one‐on‐one conversations to share experiences. In addition to transcripts, extensive field

notes provide insight into the life events I became a part of, and form part of the field texts. The field texts were

then collaboratively analyzed using the three‐dimensional inquiry space of time, place and sociality to create rich

and descriptive narrative accounts that reflect each participant's life story. I laid the accounts side by side to look

for resonant threads. Practice Implications: This inquiry offers insight into the experiences of women with learning

difficulties within the context of social and institutional systems. Some threads spoke to the gaps and silences in

policies and practices. Occupational therapists are rarely present in the CJS, with a lack of focus on long‐term

community rehabilitation which may prevent re‐incarceration. Conclusion: Introducing these narratives into

occupational therapy research and practice can foster advanced dialogue and transformative action within social,

institutional and political arenas.

T101 Self‐management of heart failure: A treatment algorithm


Ashley Minish (St. Boniface Hospital, Winnipeg) [email protected] Jane McSwiggan


Introduction: Heart failure is one of the fastest growing health conditions in the aging population (Ross et al.,

2006). To date there has been a paucity of literature to guide occupational therapy practice in the management of

clients with heart failure. Best practice guidelines identify the role for occupational therapy in heart failure

management, as occupational therapists promote self‐care activities and enable targeted skill building (Lindenfeld

et al., 2010). Treatment algorithms have been identified as a tool to guide best practices and improve the

effectiveness of health education and intervention (Miller, Ryan, & York, 2005). In order to facilitate consistent


evidence‐based occupational therapy practice, a treatment algorithm for heart failure intervention was created.

Objective: To present a treatment algorithm to guide occupational therapy practice for clients with heart failure in

an acute‐care setting. Method: A treatment algorithm was developed as a method to standardize decision making

and quality of care. The algorithm outlines the functional differences between systolic and diastolic heart failure,

relevant assessment considerations, and outlines specific occupational therapy interventions (client education in

self‐management skills, self‐care, adaptive equipment, energy conservation strategies). Each decision and

intervention box on the algorithm is supplemented by explanatory text. Practice Implications: This algorithm

promotes a consistent evidence‐based approach for occupational therapists working with clients with heart failure

in an acute care setting. Conclusions: The treatment algorithm is an ideal tool to guide occupational therapists'

decision‐making and to promote best practices and effective interventions in the self‐management of heart failure.

T102 Measuring work disability in rural and urban healthcare regions


Margaret Friesen (University of Manitoba, Winnipeg) [email protected] Renee‐Louise Franche,

Nelson Oranye, Mitchell Jeffrey

Poster defense : Administration Health Policy, Adult General

Introduction: Time‐loss injury rates and absence duration due to workplace injury continue to be higher in the

healthcare sector than other industry sectors. Unique challenges exist for rural healthcare workers that result from

travel distances between health centres and limited resources for treatment intervention and for professional

education opportunities. Objectives: The objective of this study was to examine differences in work disability

outcomes between rural and urban healthcare workers. Methods: This study is the first phase of a mixed methods

study that also included a qualitative study and a knowledge translation phase. The sample of 3110 time‐loss

claims was drawn from a provincial data set of accepted work‐related injury claims from 2001‐2011. Geography

variables (rural‐‐urban), socio‐demographic variables, job and facility variables, and type of injury were tested for

significance against absence duration of time‐loss injuries and overall injury‐related costs using chi square

statistical analysis. Results: The majority of claims came from urban areas although differences for type of injury,

type of job and facility between rural and urban areas were non‐significant except for Homecare (counted as a

rural facility) which had the longest absence duration of time‐loss injuries. Overall, rural areas were found to have

significantly higher injury‐related costs as well as longer absence duration of time‐loss injuries. Conclusions: This

study provides evidence of longer absence duration and higher overall costs in rural areas highlighting the need to

improve work‐related disability management for healthcare workers in rural areas.

T103 Exploring Community Perspectives: Impact of International Fieldwork Placements


Donna Drynan (University of British Columbia, Vancouver) [email protected] Jenny Quilty, Megan Shields,

Shafik Dharamsi


Introduction: There is a significant increase in the number of occupational and physiotherapy students

participating in international fieldwork placements in low‐income countries. Yet, there is a lack of research

describing this experience from hosting communities perspectives. The aim of this qualitative study is to explore

the experiences and viewpoints of communities that host Canadian students from occupational and physiotherapy

programs. Objective: The purpose of the study is to address the question: "what is the experience of hosting

international student therapists on placement within communities of a low income country?" Methods: Purposive

sampling was used to recruit participants from five affiliated international fieldwork sites. Six semi‐structured

interviews facilitated data collection. Interviews were audiotaped and transcribed verbatim for thematic analysis.

Results: Three themes emerged: interactions, the role as host, and shifting practice. This study found that hosts'

are optimistic towards continuing collaboration with the University. The hosting sites took their role seriously and

with honour, and hope to provide positive student experiences. Hosts found that new perspectives gained from

providing these experiences to greatly benefit their community. Shifts in practice and areas for potential


improvements include better pre‐placement collaboration in order to meet both the academic and host

community needs. Conclusions: It is imperative to gain an understanding of host communities' experience of

international fieldwork to ensure mutually beneficial partnerships between universities and affiliated host sites for

continued success of these experiences.

T104 Occupational injustice through language discrimination and devaluation of linguistic capital


Suzanne Huot (University of Western Ontario, London) [email protected]

CSOS paper : Community, Non‐specific to Client Group

Introduction: According to Bourdieu, language can be a form of embodied symbolic capital. Fluency in a dominant

language facilitates engagement in daily occupations by enabling social interaction. Likewise, linguistic isolation

experienced by 'non‐speakers' acts as a strong barrier to occupation. Objectives: a) To examine ways in which

language discrimination and the devaluing of immigrants' linguistic capital hinders their opportunities to engage in

meaningful occupations; and b) to identify ways that immigrants navigate linguistic barriers to participation.

Methods: Twenty sessions were held with ten immigrant participants in a mid‐sized city in Ontario as part of a

larger study. The first session entailed a narrative interview regarding experiences of migration and integration

into the host community and the creation of a map highlighting routine places and occupations. Follow up

interviews were then held to obtain greater depth of understanding. Results: Experiences of language and accent

discrimination led to many challenges for participating in daily occupations. English language skills were described

as essential for most occupations with all other languages spoken being devalued to some extent. Even when

participants obtained additional language skills, the capital provided by this was limited by accent discrimination.

Conclusions: Language learning programs are insufficient for removing linguistic barriers to occupational

engagement. Migrants utilize a range of strategies to increase their language skills. Yet, linguistic resources can

only be converted into valuable symbolic capital if recognized by mainstream society. Enabling occupational justice

for migrant populations thus requires attending to social power relations between linguistically dominant and

marginalized groups.

T105 Becoming practice ready: Marketing yourself in a changing environment


Susanne Murphy (Queen's University, Kingston) [email protected] Donna Drynan


Introduction: Occupational therapy is a vibrant and dynamic health profession that seeks to promote participation

in productive and meaningful activities for individuals, groups and communities. As with all health professions

occupational therapy is influenced by the health system, health system changes and the culture of health care.

Contemporary educational curricula and fieldwork learning opportunities need to ensure that the new generation

of occupational therapists are not only competent in enabling occupation, but are equipped with change

management skills to assist them to be practice ready. Objectives: This session explores: 1) the key competencies

and roles of novice occupational therapists in relation to chaining health systems and 2) the context of health

system factors and shifts in occupational therapy practice trends as identified by the Canadian Institute for Health

Information (CIHI). Approach: This session will equip the participants with skills from a change management lens

that will allow them to examine the occupational therapy curricula components, fieldwork learning, practice trends

and occupational therapy competencies to market themselves in the changing practice context. Practice

Implications: Being equipped with the necessary skills to become practice ready is an evolving process.

Occupational therapists and novice occupational therapists require skills to incorporate evidence and practice‐

based solutions. Conclusions: In an environment of fiscal restraint, occupational therapists are uniquely positioned

to competently address the complex health and social needs of Canadians. Being practice ready means able to

identify ones' unique skills that represent the evolving health needs of Canadians in a variety of traditional and

evolving contexts.


T106 "What's Narrative Reasoning got to do with it?": Scoping Review


Kayla Ermantrout (Alberta Health Services) [email protected] Kyla Johnson, Cassandra Fera,

Laurinda Caporuscio, Hiba Zafran, Melissa Park


Rationale: Clinicians make inferences about clients based on their actions and the stories that they share.

Ethnographic research demonstrates how reasoning with stories, or narrative reasoning, is integral to client‐

centered practice as it has the potential to reveal what matters to empower clients. However, inconsistencies in

terms used for this construct in different healthcare disciplines and research make it difficult to teach in a

comprehensible manner to future clinicians. Objective: The aims of this scoping review were to: 1) describe the

extent, range, and nature of clinical research that has been conducted on the topic of narrative reasoning; 2)

determine how narrative reasoning is understood and being examined in clinical research, and 3) create a concept

map that provides a set of consistent terms and situates narrative reasoning relative to other forms of clinical

reasoning. Methods: Searching identified 2013 articles published between 1970 and 2013, of which 15 met final

inclusion criteria. A concept map was created using the terms found within the articles. Descriptive numerical

analysis was used to synthesize knowledge about the breadth and nature of the research, and interpretive

description was used to analyze how narrative reasoning is understood and examined. Results: Our findings show a

predominance of occupational therapy studies, inconsistencies in the definition of, and methodological challenges

researching narrative reasoning. Conclusions: These findings call attention to the need for focused investigation

into the processes and effects of narrative reasoning to legitimize our profession’s art of individualizing care, and

integrate it into client‐centered curriculum.

T107 The Efficacy of Scooter Training for Adults: A Pilot Study


Jennifer Nguy [email protected] Evgeny Sotnikov, Richelle Emery, Linda Joyce, Ben Mortenson


Introduction. Scooter‐related accidents are common, and may cause serious injuries to users or others in their

environment. Although studies have found that power wheelchair training is associated with improved wheelchair

skills, it is unclear if scooter training produces similar results (Best, Kirby, Smith, MacPhee et al., 2004). Objectives.

A study is being conducted to evaluate the outcomes produced by the provision of a systematic, comprehensive,

one‐on‐one scooter training (SCOOT); to determine how this intervention is experienced by recipients to allow

further refinement; and to explore the feasibility of conducting a larger clinical trial. Methods. Approximately ten

adults will participate in a mixed‐method study. Scooter training sessions will be provided based on client need.

Outcomes, including objectives scooter skills and scooter confidence, will be measured before and after training.

Participants will be interviewed about their experiences with the training. Feasibility information will be collected

about recruitment rates, adherence, and utility of potential measures. Results. The study will provide preliminary

estimates about the effects of provision of scooter training on users' skills and confidence. Qualitative findings will

provide valuable feedback that can be used to improve intervention protocol and feasibility data will determine

the viability of a future experimental study. Conclusions. This feasibility study will inform research that can

produce credible new knowledge describing the outcomes users experience following SCOOT. We anticipate this

training will improve scooter users' competence, so that they can safely use these devices to facilitate their

occupational engagement and improve their quality of life.

T108 Hiring People with Disabilities: A Scoping Review


Samantha Langan (McMaster University) [email protected] Danielle Shand, Rebecca Gewurtz



Introduction: Many people with disabilities continue to encounter challenges trying to secure employment.

Objectives: The purpose of this study was to synthesize existing knowledge about the hiring process for people

with disabilities and explore research priorities from the perspective of key stakeholders. Methods: A scoping

review of the literature related to hiring processes and practices as they relate to people with disabilities was

undertaken. As part of the scoping review, seven key informant consultations were conducted in order to gain

further insight into the key issues identified by those most involved in the hiring process for people with

disabilities. Results: Findings from the literature and consultations revolve around seven inter‐related topics: 1)

regulations versus practice, 2) stigma, 3) disclosure, 4) accommodations, 5) relationship building and use of

disability organizations, 6) information and support to employers, and 7) hiring practices that invite people with

disabilities. Conclusions: Although barriers to employment for people with disabilities have been examined in the

literature and some strategies have been suggested, there remains a paucity of research examining and evaluating

the effectiveness of approaches to improve hiring practices and employment opportunities for people with

disabilities. Through their understanding of person, environment and occupation, occupational therapists are

uniquely positioned to address the ongoing challenges within current hiring practices. Occupational therapists can

play a key role in helping persons involved in the hiring process adopt inclusive recruitment and hiring practices,

and identify and implement accommodations that promote the best person‐environment‐occupation fit for people

with disabilities.

T109 The Role of Occupational Therapists in Primary Care


Madelaine Stefanik (University of Manitoba, Winnipeg) [email protected] Pamela Wener


Introduction. Primary care service delivery in Canada is changing from sole‐physician to interprofessional teams of

providers. Recently occupational therapists have been included on these interprofessional teams. However, more

evidence is required to establish and articulate the role of occupational therapy in primary care. Objectives. The

purpose of this study was to gain an understanding of the occupational therapists' self‐perceived role in a primary

care setting. Methods. Using an Interpretive Description method of inquiry, researchers conducted individual in‐

depth semi‐structured interviews with two occupational therapists working in a primary care setting. Interviews

were digitally audio‐recorded and transcribed verbatim. Researchers independently open‐coded transcripts and

then together met and grouped similar codes to form categories. Final categories and overarching theme were

discussed, negotiated and agreed to by researchers. Preliminary themes were presented to the participants for

feedback that was incorporated into developing final themes. Results. One overarching theme and two categories

emerged from the data. The overarching theme of evolving occupational therapy role was explained by the

categories: the generalist with specialist skills and 2) the team's openness to the role. The participants in this study

learned about their role as they sought to meet the needs of the clients, medical residents and team. Conclusions.

Understanding occupational therapists' self‐perceived role in primary care is an important contribution to

developing a new role in this practice setting. As the opportunities to become part of primary care

interprofessional teams grow, occupational therapists must be prepared to articulate their unique role.

T110 Who Knows? Who Cares? Understanding Roles on Primary Care Teams


Cara Brown (University of Manitoba, Winnipeg) [email protected] Pamela Wener, Fricke Moni, Leclair Leanne,

Leslie Johnson, Rebecca Schorr, Lisa Diamond‐Burchuk, Jamie Boyd


Background: Increasingly rehabilitation professionals are being included in Canadian primary care teams. In one

Canadian province, where these teams are in the early stages, occupational therapy and physical therapy services

were added to a primary care teaching clinic in 2013. Full integration of rehabilitation team members requires

initial and on‐going role clarification. Objective: Explore how the addition of rehabilitation professionals to a

primary care team impacts the team's views of the roles and value of rehabilitation professionals in primary care.


Methodology: This descriptive single case study uses a multi‐method data collection strategy: individual interviews

of the primary care team, focus groups with family medicine residents and document review of referrals to the

rehabilitation professionals by the primary care team. Two frameworks guide this work: The Canadian National

Interprofessional Competency Framework[1] and Intergroup Contact Theory[2]. Focus groups and interviews will

be analyzed using directed content analysis[3] allowing for the use of key concepts from the guiding frameworks

for initial coding. Subsequent inductive interpretation will build on the guiding theories. Referral analysis will result

in a profile of clients being referred to the rehabilitation professionals and reasons for referral using descriptive

statistics. Results: Preliminary results will be presented of a framework of how and how well the team comes to

understand the rehabilitation role in primary care by integrating results from the three data collection sources.

Conclusion: This study will inform and guide the integration of rehabilitation services in primary care by

determining how primary care teams understand and envision primary care rehabilitation roles.

T111 Understanding mindfulness of the body in managing chronic pain


Christine Graves (The Ottawa Hospital, Ottawa) [email protected] Patricia Poulin


Introduction: Occupational therapy contributes to the management of chronic diseases [1] such as chronic pain. An

occupational therapist may teach mindfulness as a self‐management tool [2]. Although mindfulness as an

approach has been shown to be associated with lasting improvements in psychological status in chronic pain

patients [3], there is little or no study of mindfulness of the body, the first tenant of a mindfulness practise.

Objectives: A multi‐disciplinary research team compared the benefit of pain education when paired with

mindfulness (control) and movement awareness (experimental). Methods: Clients were recruited by physicians in a

hospital pain clinic and therapists in outpatient rehabilitation and randomized to one of the two study groups. A six

week program was provided to each group. Pre and post tests were administered to measure pain catastrophizing,

depression, pain levels, somatic awareness and mindfulness. Descriptive statistics for each outcome measure was

performed on the experimental group but not the control due to attrition. Results: Clients in the experimental

group reported significant reduction in pain catastrophizing and depressive symptoms and reduced pain intensity

and pain hypervigilance. There was a trend toward improved somatic awareness (noticing and self‐regulation)

which predicted the variance in depressive symptoms, pain catastrophizing and pain interference. Conclusions: The

study demonstrates improvement in participants taught attention to movements. This finding can be applied to

improve chronic pain management approaches used in a hospital based service by OT's.

T112 Interprofessional practice: Students’ experiences on rural and remote placements


Lorie Shimmell (McMaster University, Hamilton) [email protected] Joyce Tryssenaar, Sue Berry, Marion

Briggs, Brock Chisholm, Erica Snippe‐Juurakko, Christopher Winn, Sarah Wojkowski


Introduction: This project explores the unique nature of interprofessional (IP) learning in rural and remote clinical

practice through the lens of occupational therapy and physiotherapy learners. Objectives: The threefold purpose

of this research project included: 1) determining the extent of formal and informal IP learning; 2) exploring how IP

contributes to a generalist role in rural settings; and 3) determining the nature of interprofessional relationships

during small community clinical placements. Methods: Using an inductive analytic approach, qualitative data were

gathered from essays, interviews and focus groups. Prior to placement onset, students were asked to complete a

brief paper about their placement expectations. During their placements, students were interviewed weekly

regarding their experiences in the rural/remote settings and explored their IP involvement. They then participated

in post‐placement focus groups in which they critically reflected on the overall experience. Thus, students shared

their expectations, in‐the‐moment lived experiences, concluding with a final opportunity to reflect on their

immersion into the settings. Thematic content analysis was completed. Results: This paper will present thematic

findings based on the experiences of six rehabilitation students. Findings will be used to inform the development


of guidelines for preceptors and students to consciously and thoughtfully integrate interprofessional learning and

collaboration as essential components of rural and remote placements. Conclusion: Gaining IP experiences through

building relationships in rural and remote communities may be a critical element in contributing to the comfort of

students learning the generalist role and nature of practice in rural and remote settings.

T113 Educational foundations for “enabling occupational justice”


Judith Friedland [email protected] Elizabeth Townsend

CSOS extended discussion : Theory, Non‐specific to Client Group

Introduction: The concept of "enabling occupational justice" to address everyday human rights and equity in

society needs ongoing study to appreciate its meaning and implications. To date, we know very little about the

foundational ideas that may have given rise to the concept of individual, group, and community enablement and to

the social activism implied in the idea of occupational justice. Educational reforms at the turn of the last century

are one influence that may have set the stage for embracing this concept and that may also underlie more recent

work in this area. Objectives: To learn about and critically reflect on the history of key educational theories and

theorists that are embedded implicitly or explicitly in descriptions of enabling occupational justice in occupational

science and occupational therapy. Approach: We will examine several educational influences primarily from the

last century (e.g., the pragmatist school of John Dewey; the importance of the learning environment for Maria

Montessori; the political action advanced by Paulo Freire). The presentation will engage participants with reflective

questions and discussion. Practice implications: Participants will consider critical questions and ideas that are

congruent with "enabling occupational justice", such as experiential learning through doing, engagement, the just‐

right‐challenge, individual and social transformation, and participatory enablement and empowerment. The

examination of historical materials will deepen current understanding while raising new questions for occupational

science research and occupational therapy practice. Conclusions: The history of educational theories and theorists

has the potential to advance knowledge and practice for enabling occupational justice.

T114 Development of University Stress Sources Scale (U‐StreSS)


Angela Mann (University of British Columbia) [email protected] Shelley Meuleman, Olga Kastioukevich,

Tal Jarus, Michael Lee

Paper presentations : Education, Adult Psychosocial Health

Introduction. Stress is a critical factor affecting student’s participation in daily occupation (ACHA, 2009). Through

participatory action research conducted at a large Canadian university, four themes pertaining to sources of

student stress were identified. Existing literature reveals no one tool to address all four themes. Using constructs

from existing scales, U‐StreSS, a new 88‐item tool was drafted to address the four themes. Objectives. This study

aims to refine the U‐StreSS through consultation with content experts in student mental health. Methods. Using

Delphi method, the U‐StreSS was reviewed by a national and international expert panel of 17 students,

researchers, and student service providers. Tool items are reviewed for relevancy, redundancy, and suitability to

categories. Quantitative data are analyzed for level of agreement, while qualitative data from open‐ended

questions undergo thematic analysis. Further recruitment and consultation will continue in this phase of the

project. Results. Preliminary results indicated most of the items are relevant and belong to their respective

categories. Findings also revealed that stresses experienced by graduate students are different from

undergraduate students. Further analysis would shed light on these initial results. Following consultation with an

expanded panel, we anticipate agreement will be reached, items refined, and the tool finalized. Conclusions. Once

refined, the U‐StreSS may equip occupational therapists with a comprehensive tool to assess students' well‐being,

ultimately promoting stress‐free learning environment that will enable students to fully participate in their

occupations.


T115 School‐Based Fieldwork Placements: Increasing the number, broadening the role


Lisa Mendez (University of Manitoba, Winnipeg) [email protected] Donna Glasgow, Corinne

Hildebrandt, Melanie Read, Margaret Anne Campbell‐Rempel

Paper presentations : Education, Child/Adolescent General

Introduction: Fieldwork opportunities within school environments are highly prized by occupational therapy

students however can be difficult to recruit when the timing of fieldwork placements does not fit well with the

school system schedule. Educators have additionally indicated high caseloads, multiple school environments, and

limited opportunity to see clients/schools more than once per placement as additional barriers to providing

fieldwork. Objectives: Targeted approaches and placement models used to increase the number of school‐based

placements will be presented. Approach: Potential educators were approached by the university to explore

implementation of the collaborative fieldwork model, where students are placed in pairs. The placements were

structured in one of three ways: 1) placements were based on the educators' typical caseload, 2) placements

expanded the services typically provided or 3) placements explored new and emerging roles. Feedback was

solicited from educators and students on their experiences; this information has informed further placement

development. Results: The number of school‐based placements more than doubled; educators indicated that the

strategies were an effective means to provide quality fieldwork placements within their school environments.

Placements allowed opportunities to enhance programming such as fine motor groups, environmental

consultations, teacher education, and exploration of new roles in mental health and high school environments.

Student placements increased the visibility of occupational therapy and understanding of potential roles in school

environments. Conclusions: Applying a targeted approach to develop school‐based fieldwork placements can lead

to increased fieldwork opportunities for students, additional supports and services for clients, and exploration of

new roles within school systems.

T116 Exploratory Validation of a Multidimensional Power Mobility Outcomes Toolkit


William (Ben) Mortenson [email protected] Louise Demers, Paula Rushton, Claudine Auger, Francois

Routhier, William Miller


Introduction: An increasing number of individuals with disabilities are using power mobility to facilitate their

occupational engagement. However, the outcomes of power mobility provision have not been systematically

evaluated. Therefore, we developed a power mobility toolkit that could provide a more comprehensive

understanding of power mobility related outcomes. Objectives: To evaluate the relationship among the measures

in a power mobility outcomes toolkit. Methods: We performed path analysis of cross‐sectional data from the five

measures included in the toolkit. The power wheelchair version of the Wheelchair Skills Test (WST‐P) measured

capacity to perform wheelchair skills. The Late Life Disability Index (LLDI) measured frequency of participation life

activities. The Life Space Assessment (LSA) measured independence and frequency of mobility. The Assistive

Technology Outcomes Profile for Mobility (ATOP/M) was used to assess perceived difficulty performing activity

and participation using assistive technology. The Wheelchair Use Confidence Scale for powered wheelchair users

(WheelCon‐P) captured users' self‐efficacy with wheelchair‐related activities and skills. Results: The sample

included 128 power wheelchair users from six Canadian cities. As anticipated, greater wheelchair confidence was

independently associated with decreased difficulty with activity and participation (ATOP/M) and higher wheelchair

skills (WST‐P). Decreased difficulty with activity was independently associated with decreased difficulty with

participation, increased life space mobility, and increased frequency of participation. Conclusions: This study

provides some empirical support for the measures included as part of the power mobility outcomes toolkit. They

appear to provide complementary information on a variety of constructs related to power wheelchair use, which

can inform clinical practice.


T117 Barriers to accessing health care services for immigrants


Angela Kalich (Queens University) [email protected] Lyn Heinemann, Setareh Ghahari

Poster defense : Administration Health Policy, Adult General

Introduction: The Charter of Rights and Freedoms states that all Canadians should have "reasonable access to

health services without financial or other barriers" (Government of Canada, 1984). This includes immigrants who

make up at least 20% of the population. However, many immigrants experience difficulties in accessing healthcare

services. Identifying barriers for accessing health services is necessary to address this inequity and enable

immigrants' full participation in occupations. Objectives: To identify barriers that adult immigrants face when

accessing Canadian health care services. Methods: Canadian‐focused, English‐language studies (published between

2000 and 2014) were included from a search of Medline and CINAHL databases and manual search of Google

Scholar. Selected articles focused on health care access barriers specific to adult immigrants to Canada. Results: 28

articles met inclusion criteria. The three most cited barriers were linguistic barriers, lack of information about how

to access or navigate services, and cultural differences. Concomitantly, health care workers who serve this

population report low cultural competence reflecting a need for service‐delivery training specific to the immigrant

context. Conclusion: Learning how to access and navigate the complex Canadian health care system is challenging

for immigrants when service providers and clients do not share fluency in the same language or cultural customs.

Occupational therapists are ideally positioned to combat these access barriers so increasing overall awareness of

them is crucial. Occupational therapy researchers and practitioners should build upon these findings and identify

solutions to the most commonly cited barriers for immigrant health care access.

T118 Clinical utility of a functional status assessment in emergency department


Nathalie Veillette (University of Montreal, Montreal) [email protected] Marie‐Claude Beaudoin


Introduction: The Emergency Department (ED) is one of the primary means of accessing health service. ED

practitioners consult occupational therapists (OTs) to assess the functional status of elderly patients. The tools

used lack specificity for the ED and the Functional Status Assessment of Seniors in Emergency Departments (FSAS‐

ED) was developed specifically for this purpose. Objective: To confirm the positive impact of the assessment in the

ED using the FSAS‐ED. Methods: In a longitudinal case‐control study, an OT group (n=92) is compared to a non‐OT

control group (n=110). Based on medical chart review, controls are randomly selected and matched to subjects on

specific criteria (age, gender, residence, reasons for ED consultation, diagnostic, number of comorbidities).

Comparisons between groups were made in 3 instances: upon discharge from the ED (regarding destination after

ED visit) and after 3 and 6 months following the initial ED visit (regarding return to ED, hospitalization, transfer to

long term‐term care or death rates)é. Results: Using the FSAS‐ED may be beneficial in ED settings by reducing

hospital admissions (33.7% in OT group vs. 54,5% in controls) and increasing return home rates (48.9% vs. 37.2%)

without increasing return to ED (33.6% vs. 39%) or hospitalization rates (20.6% vs. 33.6%) after 6 months post ED

visit, identifying patient's unmet needs and undiagnosed functional impairments and participating in discharge

planning to prevent unsafe discharges or improve safety upon discharge. Conclusion: Results support a recent

systematic review of all functional assessments utilised in EDs which recommends the FSAS‐ED as a comprehensive

assessment.

T119 Occupational Therapy Role in Cardiac Surgery Postoperative Delirium


Sandy Lopes (St. Boniface Hospital, Winnipeg) [email protected] Jami Chhabra


Introduction: Postoperative delirium is a common complication of cardiac surgery. Identifying those at risk prior to

surgery can assist with reducing the impact of delirium. Hence, a tertiary care Canadian hospital decided to


develop a delirium pilot project involving all disciplines from pre‐op to post‐op care. Occupational Therapists

possess skills in assessment of cognition and function making us an integral team members in the identification

and treatment of delirium. Objectives: The role of Occupational Therapy in this pilot project includes: (1) to assist

with screening for risk factors for delirium; (2) to create specific non‐pharmacological intervention strategies for

delirium in a cardiac surgery program. Methods: Occupational Therapy was involved in: (a) the initial discussion of

risk factors for delirium; (b) training of pre‐op clinic nurses in the Montreal Cognitive Assessment; (c) educating

clients through the creation of patient handouts; (d) developing potential non‐pharmacological interventions that

can be carried out by ward staff within the project's limited budget; (e) the eventual roll out of the project (i.e.,

education to staff of interventions). Results: All patients went through a screening process prior to surgery to

identify if they are low, medium or high risk for developing delirium. An intervention protocol was then developed,

based on level of risk, which includes pharmacological and non‐pharmacological strategies to be implemented in

2015. Conclusion: Occupational therapy's role in this pilot project enhanced the screening process to better

identify clients at risk. Once identified, interventions can be taken to prevent and treat post‐op delirium.

T120 Barriers to accessing healthcare services for clients with multiple sclerosis


Laura Harrison [email protected] Faith Webster, Setareh Ghahari


Rationale: The progressive nature of both the neurological and functional impairments experienced by those with

multiple sclerosis (MS) has been shown to pose significant problems to accessing healthcare services. There has

been little comprehensive research to identify the most significant barriers to accessing these services for this

group. This knowledge can be used by occupational therapists to facilitate access and increase participation in a

person's healthcare. Objectives: To systematically identify barriers to accessing healthcare services for people with

MS, using current literature. Methods: Journal articles in English (published between 2004 and 2014) on barriers to

health service access for people with MS were searched in the Medline, Embase, and CINAHL databases. After

identifying duplicates, 127 abstracts were checked for eligibility. A total of 18 articles met the inclusion criteria.

Results: The barriers mentioned most frequently were lack of information (N=13), lack of communication or

interaction with healthcare provider (N=10), and lack of finances (N=10). Also physical barriers, transportation

issues, time, proximity to service, and lack of referral were reported as health access barriers for people with MS.

Conclusion: Barriers to full accessibility for those with MS raise concerns about occupational justice and present

difficulties for healthcare advocates trying to provide excellent client care and improve occupational engagement.

Discovering prevalent barriers, such as lack of information, unhelpful interactions with healthcare providers and

lack of finances, helps occupational therapists act as change agents to intervene more effectively when clients

struggle to access care.

T121 Exploring the effect of fieldwork education models on competency acquisition


Donna Drynan (University of British Columbia, Vancouver) [email protected] Marisa Short, Candace Letham


Introduction: Fieldwork education is an essential component of occupational therapy curricula, allowing students

to apply classroom learned skills and theories to practical situations, thus developing clinical competence. In

traditional fieldwork models, one student is matched with one educator (1:1). In collaborative models, two or

more students are matched to one fieldwork educator (2+:1). Currently there is a lack of quantitative research in

the field of occupational therapy exploring the differences between these two models in terms of student

performance outcomes. Objective: This research project aims to address the following research question: Do

students completing a 2:1 placement differ from students completing a 1:1 placement on scores of clinical

competence? Methods: This retrospective study will use data from past graduating classes from one Canadian

University to compare student competency attainment between the 1:1 and 2:1 models as measured by a

validated fieldwork evaluation tool. In addition, correlations between the data and student characteristics such as


age, gender, GPA will be explored. Results: Anticipated results will reveal differences in student attainment of

clinical competency between 2:1 and 1:1 fieldwork experiences. For instance, 2:1 fieldwork experiences may yield

higher scores on communication and clinical reasoning compared to 1:1. Conclusions: Should the results show that

students in a 2:1 placement score equal to or better than students on a 1:1 placement then this study will add to a

building body of knowledge about the impact of fieldwork models on student attainment of clinical competence.

T122 Promising Practices in Community Mental Health Services for Migrant Communities


Jenna Thygesen (University of Alberta) [email protected]


Introduction: Newcomers and migrants form an increasingly large proportion of the Canadian population.

Immigrants are at an increased risk of developing mental health issues when compared to the general population,

while refugees are ten times more likely to fulfill the diagnostic criteria for post‐traumatic stress disorder. Barriers

to accessing supportive mental‐health services may be minimized in community settings. Objective: To inform

occupational therapy practice, policy, and service development for migrant populations by summarizing promising

practices in community mental health. Approach: A scoping literature review was conducted, encompassing

community‐based mental health promotion and treatment programs for newcomers and migrants in Canada.

Practice Implications: Recommendations are provided for occupational therapists to improve the cultural

responsiveness of mental health services, including forming partnerships with migrant service providers and

ethnocultural community groups, examining barriers to family involvement in client care, and effectively using

cultural brokers and interpreters. Conclusion: Culture is emergent in therapeutic interactions, and is responsive to

time, place, and individual experiences. Increased awareness of available resources and promising practices will

enhance the cultural competence of occupational therapists in supporting the mental health and wellbeing of

migrant communities.

Friday,May29vendredi,le29maiF1 Active Transportation and the Role of Occupational Therapy

Friday 08:30‐11:30 Room/ Salle : Wellington

Jacquie Ripat, Judy Redmond, Annick St‐Denis [email protected]

Professional Issue Forum

Active transportation is “any form of human‐powered transportation” (Transport Canada, 2011). It encompasses

all human‐powered transportation modes used to commute to work, to school, or to engage in one’s community.

At an individual level, using active transportation has the potential to increase people’s engagement in physical

activity, to decrease the risk of chronic disease and weight gain (Rosenberg, Sallis, Conway, Cain, & McKenzie,

2006) and to improve mental health and well‐being (Biddle & Asare, 2012).

At a societal level, using active transportation has multiple environmental and economic benefits. Active

transportation generates far less air pollution and infrastructure costs are far lower than that of motorized

transportation modes (Litman, 2014). Successful strategies to promote and support active transportation

initiatives will require the consideration of multiple micro and macro components and the coordination of actions

of different sectors and stakeholders (World Health Organization, 2007).

Occupational therapists have an important role in promoting active transportation (Mulholland et al., (2009). Our

knowledge of the dynamic interaction between people, their occupations, and the environment uniquely position

us to highlight how active transportation can serve as a means to occupational engagement. Our skills and

perspective enable us to contribute to community actions and public discussions for the planning of active

transportation initiatives that take the needs of a diverse population into account.


This Professional Issue Forum will provide a platform for critical discussion that aims to enable Canadian

occupational therapists to embrace a leadership role in supporting active transportation.

F2 Preparing Male Occupational Therapy Students for Fieldwork Education

Friday 08:30‐09:00 Room/ Salle : Cambridge

Donna Barker (University of Toronto, Toronto) [email protected] Nick Reed


Introduction: Only 8% of members of the Canadian Association of Occupational Therapists are males (CAOT, 2011).

Male occupational therapy students are likely to be placed into a predominantly female fieldwork environment

which can present challenges and affect learning. Research shows that male students encounter challenges such as

assumptions of stereotypical male skills and preferences, feelings of isolation, and decreased learning

opportunities (Jakubovic, 2008; Barker, Stack, Jakubovic,& Reed, 2013) Objectives: To share our experiences

implementing a session for male occupational therapy students that focuses on fieldwork preparation. The group

involves facilitated discussion of challenges for males on placements and strategies to optimizing the fieldwork

learning. Approach: The structure and content of the annual session will be presented. Results of an online survey

administered to the students who participated in the group over the past five years will also be presented,

confirming the effectiveness of the group. Survey results show that all students found the sessions extremely

valuable, making them aware of potential fieldwork issues and giving them strategies with how to deal with these

issues. Students also reported that the group made them feel more connected to their classmates and gave them a

resource of people to contact for consultation and support. Practice Implications: Male occupational therapy

students should be educated regarding possible gender‐related fieldwork issues and how to rise to the challenges

that they may encounter. Conclusions: A group session for male occupational therapy students is an effective way

to prepare students for fieldwork placements and facilitate optimum clinical learning.

F3 Can Developmental Coordination Disorder be predicted by early motor performance?

Friday 08:30‐09:00 Room/ Salle : Harrow/Essex/ Canterbury

Jill Zwicker (Unversity of British Columbia, Vancouver) [email protected] Dawn Isberg, Sarah Hare, Anne Synnes,

Ruth Grunau, Steven Miller

Paper presentations : Theory, Child/Adolescent Physical Health

Rationale: Very preterm infants are at high risk of developing developmental coordination disorder (DCD) (Edwards

et al., 2011), which is often undiagnosed before school‐age. Although early identification of DCD is recommended

(Blank et al., 2012), the course of motor performance from infancy to early childhood and the presence of DCD at

the age of school entry is largely unknown. Objectives: The purpose of this study is to examine the relationship

between motor assessments conducted early in life [4, 8, 18 months corrected age (CA) and 36 months] with

motor outcomes of very preterm children identified with DCD at 4.5 years. Methods: In a retrospective cohort of

376 very preterm infants (median gestational age: 25 weeks; median birth weight: 785 grams), the Movement

Assessment of Infants (4 and 8 months CA), Bayley Scales of Infant Development‐III (4, 8, 18 months CA, 36

months), Peabody Developmental Motor Scales‐2 (18 months CA, 36 months), and Movement Assessment Battery

for Children 1 or 2 (4.5 years) were conducted. Data analysis will include descriptive statistics to describe the

motor outcomes of the cohort and receiver operator curves to assess performance characteristics of potential

predictors for DCD at 4.5 years. Results: Findings will indicate the sensitivity and specificity of each motor

assessment and at what age(s) risk for DCD may be identified in children born very preterm. Conclusion: Results

will help occupational therapists with early identification of very preterm children at risk of developing DCD ‐

potentially facilitating earlier intervention and altering their developmental pathway.

F4 Representations of meaningful occupations amongst occupational therapists and their clients

Friday 08:30‐09:00 Room/ Salle : Lombard Room

Gabriel Hotte‐René (Institut Universitaire en santé mentale de Québec/Université Laval, Québec) gabriel.hotte‐


[email protected] Catherine Vallée

Poster defense : Community, Adult Psychosocial Health

Introduction: Meaningful occupation, as both means and end, is central in occupational therapy. However, little

consensus exists regarding its definition, including whether therapists and clients have a similar understanding.

Gaining clarity about this question is critical in a client‐centred approach. Objective: To describe the

representations of meaningful occupation through the eyes of occupational therapists working in mental health

and individuals who have received occupational therapy mental health services. Methods: This exploratory study

has adopted a constructivist stance and rests on a phenomenological approach. Seven occupational therapists and

seven clients participated in semi‐structured individual interviews to elicit narratives about meaningful

occupations, experienced within and outside occupational therapy. A conceptual framework, derived from a

systematic literature review, initially guided the analysis process; as the analysis progressed, codes were also

elicited inductively. A journal was kept, including memos, code definitions and the researcher's reflective process.

Results: Although there were some overlapping themes, the representations of what is a meaningful occupation

differed significantly between the two groups. The meaning is structured differently particularly in regard to

pleasure, choice, and sense of obligation. The similarities and contrasts between the representations of the two

groups will be presented, while also addressing the contextual factors that appear to modulate these

representations. Conclusion: Engaging in meaningful occupations is both a critical outcome and process for

individuals in recovery. It is important that occupational therapists improve their understanding of clients'

representations of meaningful occupations in order to better accompany them.

F5 Traveling for birth: An occupational perspective


Ashley Struthers (Centre for Healthcare Innovation, Winnipeg) [email protected] Shannon Winters, Colleen

Metge, Darlene Girard

Poster defense : Theory, Adult General

Introduction: Women from rural and remote communities in Canada often travel to give birth in urban centres.

Childbirth is a transformative experience yet neither childbirth nor traveling for birth have been explored from an

occupational perspective. Objective: To understand the experiences of women traveling for birth, focusing on their

strengths and needs, in order to design an appropriate and culturally safe prenatal service. Methods: This study

included a literature review, semi‐structured interviews and a focus group with women traveling for birth and care

providers. Data analysis involved initial coding followed by the development of categories and themes. While

performing the initial analysis occupational justice emerged as a salient theme. Results: Participants included 26

women traveling for birth and 35 health care providers. Women's experiences of traveling for birth described

many occupational disruptions, especially to their roles as mothers and partners. However, the impact of traveling

for birth goes beyond a short disruption to a woman's daily occupations; breastfeeding may be disrupted, women

often birth alone and families and communities are denied the opportunity to be part of the celebration of birth.

Participants described traveling for birth as a disempowering experience that may have long lasting impacts on

families and communities, particularly questioning its impact on attachment. Conclusion: The imposed practice of

traveling for birth represents an occupational injustice perpetrated against women, families and communities.

Action is needed to address this injustice and its impact on health and wellbeing.

F6 Expanding Orientation Week: Laying a Foundation for Student Learning


Cori Schmitz (University of Alberta, Edmonton) [email protected] Susan Mulholland, Shaniff Esmail, Jutta

Hinrichs


Introduction: In fall 2014, a new initiative was piloted for welcoming and providing academic orientation to first

year occupational therapy (OT) students. A mandatory, four‐day Foundation Week was developed utilizing small


and large group educational sessions. Major topics included: (1) introduction to occupation; (2) therapeutic use of

self; (3) patient handling skills; and (4) orientation to library services. Minor topics included: (5) introduction to

graduate level writing; and (6) professionalism. A 'meet your professors' mini conference gave students the

opportunity to learn about the research interests of faculty members. This presentation will review the topics

included in Foundation Week and summarize the results of a retrospective evaluation created to gather student

feedback. Objectives: Foundation Week was developed to: (a) introduce key concepts and core skills of OT; (b)

establish a foundational context for ongoing curriculum content and themes; (c) proactively address student

access to campus resources and support services; and (d) initiate student‐staff relationships. Methods: A pen and

paper survey was completed by students one month post Foundation Week. Open‐ended questions as well as a 5‐

point Likert Scale were used to elicit student perspectives regarding the relevance of the various activities in

regards to overall program orientation and foundational learning. Results: Results of the student survey will be

reported and implications discussed specific to informing the evolution or removal of particular activities for future

events. Conclusions: Given the devotion of instructional time and teaching resources to this four‐day Foundation

Week, it was imperative to measure its effect on student learning and ensure that initial objectives were achieved.

F7 Developing Occupational Therapy in Paediatric Palliative Care


Julie Anania (Royal Children's Hospital Melbourne Australia, Melbourne) [email protected]


Introduction: Paediatric Palliative Care is a diverse and challenging area of practise. The Victorian Paediatric

Palliative Care Program (VPPCP) has been operating as a specialist state‐wide consultation and liaison service in

Australia since 2000. Core principles of Paediatric Palliative Care are embraced to assist any child with a life limiting

condition and their family to live as well as possible for as long as possible. Objectives: To improve the care and

supports available to VPPCP children and families through provision of specialist Occupational Therapy (OT).

Approach: In 2010 a pilot OT position at VPPCP was trialled to demonstrate potential benefits. Initial results

reduced equipment and assessment waiting times and promoted timely access to specialised equipment through

establishment of an equipment loan pool and funding to purchase or hire equipment. Practise implications:

Evidence from the 6 month pilot project secured an ongoing (0.6) OT position. OT was recognised as crucial in

supporting children and families in assessing function, accessing equipment, assisting across care settings,

discharge planning, linking allied health, community and specialist equipment services and assisting with memory

making and bereavement support. Conclusion: Children receiving palliative care deserve the best possible care and

support available. OT plays a key role in the multidisciplinary focus that assists in improving the child and family’s

quality of life, comfort and independence throughout the illness trajectory and at the end of life. The role of OT at

VPPCP continues to expand and is promoted as a model for Paediatric Palliative Care teams

F8 Justice for all means Intimacy for all. Or does it?

Friday 08:30‐09:00 Room/ Salle : Salon A Richardson Conf Centre

Sylvia Davidson [email protected]

Paper presentations : Institution, Older Adult General

Rationale: An exploration of intimacy as a meaningful occupation has led to intense discussion at one organization.

Focusing on older adults has revealed myths that continue to exist regarding sexuality in later years while those

promoting sexuality throughout the life course face barriers. Objectives: Through occupational therapy

involvement with one client and spouse, discussions about intimacy, privacy and the occupational therapy role

have emerged. This presentation highlights key directions to spotlight challenges, while generating solutions.

Approach: Occupational therapists presented an exploration of intimacy with aging at interprofessional rounds,

attended by staff, clients and families. Participants heard client and family stories related to their experiences in

finding opportunities for intimacy. Occupational therapy involvement was emphasized. Occupational therapists

facilitated small group discussion and encouraged participants to share their own experiences with how intimacy

was supported in their clinical areas. Where lack of support was identified, solutions were proposed. Practice


Implications: Summary notes from small group discussions were collected and are being reviewed, along with

evaluation feedback. The goal of this work: develop practice standards to guide clinicians in the process of

exploring intimacy with clients; create safe environments where clients and families can share thoughts and

feelings; allow staff to examine their own values and beliefs around this sensitive topic. Conclusions: There is no

doubt that individuals have the right to continue as sexual beings throughout their lives. Occupational therapists

can be key members of teams who are prepared to address needs and explore avenues to support intimacy for

clients and their families.

F9 Breaking the silence: Trauma‐informed care in occupational therapy

Friday 08:30‐09:30 Room/ Salle : Salon B Richardson Conf Centre

Kaitlyn Kitchen (Health Sciences Centre, Winnipeg) [email protected] Alana Hosegood

Extended discussion : Education, Adult Psychosocial Health

Introduction: Occupational therapists work in diverse practice settings, often with individuals who have

experienced trauma. These experiences have multifaceted effects on function and influence how individuals

engage in occupations. Trauma‐informed care reflects an awareness of, and responsiveness to, the impact of

trauma, which is congruent with a client‐centred approach. Despite growing appreciation of the pervasiveness of

trauma amongst Canadians (Van Ameringen, Mancini, Patterson, & Boyle, 2008), there is a paucity of literature

exploring the role of occupational therapy in integrating trauma‐informed care into practice. Objectives: By the

end of this session, participants will: 1) identify the common causes and types of trauma, 2) gain awareness of the

multifaceted effects of trauma on occupational performance, and 3) discuss the integration of trauma‐informed

care into occupational therapy practice through engagement in meaningful occupations to further client recovery.

Approach: Through increasing participants' knowledge of the neurobiological and psychosocial effects of trauma,

the extended discussion will introduce how to implement trauma‐informed care in occupational therapy.

Knowledge translation will be facilitated through small group dialogue, as participants identify effects of trauma on

function and integrate principles of trauma‐informed care using a strengths‐based approach. Practice implications:

Impacts of trauma are multidimensional and influence occupational performance throughout the lifespan.

Increasing awareness of trauma‐informed care will allow occupational therapists to incorporate these principles

into practice, thus enabling client‐centred recovery. Conclusions: Consistent with a strengths‐based approach,

trauma‐informed care recognizes the resilience of clients who have experienced trauma. Occupational therapists

can facilitate recovery and healing by instilling a sense of hope and empowerment through occupation.

F10 Clinical Utility of Sensory Assessments for Adults with Developmental Disabilities

Friday 08:30‐09:00 Room/ Salle : York

Denise DuBois (Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto) [email protected] Erin Lymer

Paper presentations : Theory, Adult Psychosocial Health

Rationale: Assessing and treating sensory processing abnormalities in individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder

(ASD) and/or intellectual disabilities is a common occupational therapy referral reason, however, there are few

assessments standardized or normed for adult use, as most sensory assessments and related research has focused

on a pediatric population. Objectives: This research project aims to explore sensory assessment tools occupational

therapists (OT) who work with adults with ASD or developmental disabilities utilize in their practice and their

perception of the strengths and challenges to the clinical utility of these assessments. Methods: The purpose of

this scoping literature review is to a) Better understand what assessments tools and techniques (non‐

standardized/standardized) are utilized within this population, b) The perception of the strengths and challenges

to clinical utility when using sensory assessments. Practice Implications: It is hoped that this study will better

inform current best practice and provide a knowledge base on which to create, modify or utilize more sensitive

sensory assessment tools for this adult population. Conclusion: This is the first known scoping literature review

sensory assessment tools utilized with adults with intellectual disabilities and/or ASD. Given the clinical need for

such assessments, it is imperative that we better understand this knowledge gap in order to move towards more

evidence‐based best practice.


F11 Occupational therapy in 1920s Manitoba: Edith Griffin and Social Services


Judith Friedland [email protected]


Introduction: Early occupational therapy had strong connections with social services. In the 1920s, the Manitoba

Society of Occupational Therapy investigated the possibility of working with the Social Service Commission of

Winnipeg, and the profession was being described as a phase of social service. This presentation considers what

the effect of a continued alignment with social services might have been on the profession's development in

general, and on its current efforts to seek occupational justice in particular. It highlights the work of Edith Griffin, a

skilled craftswoman and graduate ward aide who practised occupational therapy during and after WWI. As the

Canadian Society of Occupational Therapy of Manitoba's first president, she proposed extending occupational

therapy beyond the hospital into the home and the community and thought there was no limit to what the new

profession could accomplish. Objectives: to provide historical evidence for our concerns with enhancing

occupational justice, to recognize an occupational therapy pioneer, and to inspire and motivate today's therapists.

Approach: primary and secondary sources including archival materials and published works will be examined to

describe the profession's early relationship with social services, and Griffin's work. Practice Implications:

Occupational therapists will be more comfortable in expanding their work in this area as they appreciate their

roots in social service, and may find that strategies used earlier have modern‐day applications. Conclusions: the

profession's early relationship with social services contributes to the legitimacy of its current pursuit of

occupational justice. The profession has a history of overcoming challenges and forging ahead.

F12 Bariatric care – what can occupational therapy do?


Andrea Dyrkacz (University Health Network ‐ Toronto Western Hospital, Toronto) [email protected] Jenna

Ware


Rationale: Musculoskeletal injuries comprise the majority of time‐loss claims in every province, with patient

handling being the predominant cause of injury across clinical disciplines. As the prevalence of obesity increases in

Canada, healthcare providers are at even greater risk of sustaining life‐altering and career‐ending injuries in the

provision of care. Objective: To outline the contributions of occupational therapy in the provision of safe and

dignified bariatric care. Approach: This clinically‐focused presentation will outline four areas in the care of bariatric

patients that are within the specific scope and expertise of occupational therapy: 1. The provision of quality

patient handling education; 2. The recommendation of environmentally‐ and population‐appropriate bariatric

equipment ; 3. Advocacy for appropriate levels of clinical training and staffing allocation in bariatric care; and 4.

Collaboration to create workplace cultures that allow staff to recognize, report and manage injuries. Practice

Implications: Occupational therapy as a profession is well‐situated to advocate for safer bariatric care. However,

while occupational therapists are frequently called to consult when patient handling or equipment‐related issues

arise in bariatric care, there is a need for population‐specific education to help occupational therapists deal with

this rapidly expanding patient group. Conclusion: Occupational therapy has an integral role to play in the

development of bariatric care in Canada, in its discipline‐specific expertise related to patient handling education

and equipment provision. Nonetheless, occupational therapists may have their greatest role as advocates for

adequate staffing allocations, and the creation of workplace cultures supporting safer healthcare for all.

F13 La Mesure des Habitudes de Vie: valildation en santé mentale


Mélanie Ruest (Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke) [email protected] Marie‐Pier Lacroix, Audrey

Blouin, Marie‐Hélène Trudeau, Nadine Larivière

Présentation par affiche : Communauté, Adultes santé psychosociale


Introduction: À notre connaissance, il n’existe pas d’outil validé en français évaluant la participation sociale de

personnes avec des troubles mentaux. Parmi les outils intéressants, la Mesure des Habitudes de VIE (MHAVIE) est

le plus pertinent à valider, car il examine la réalisation, l'aide requise et la satisfaction pour 77 activités. Objectifs:

Évaluer la validité convergente de la MHAVIE avec l’Échelle des Habiletés de Vie Autonome (EHVA) auprès

d’adultes ayant des troubles mentaux et comparer les modes d’administration de la MHAVIE (entrevue et auto‐

administré). Méthodes: 24 adultes avec un trouble mental diagnostiqué ont été rencontrées deux fois pour

compléter la MHAVIE (deux modes) et l'EHVA (évalue en entrevue la réalisation de 56 activités). Résultats: La

validité convergente du volet Réalisation de la MHAVIE (entrevue) est modérée avec l’EHVA (Spearman Rho=0,392

et p=0,058), alors que le volet Satisfaction n’est pas significativement corrélé (Spearman Rho=0,23 et p=0,28).

Conclusions: Cette étude réalise une exploration prometteuse pour utiliser la MHAVIE (entrevue) auprès d’adultes

en santé mentale.

F14 Raisonnement des non‐ergothérapeutes: réponses divergentes à l’Algo


Mélanie Ruest (Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke) [email protected] Annick Bourget, Nathalie

Delli‐Colli, Manon Guay

Présentation par affiche : Communauté, Personnes âgées général

Introduction : Les contraintes organisationnelles en soins à domicile peuvent entraîner des injustices

occupationnelles. Pour les limiter, le chevauchement de compétences permet à différents intervenants de

répondre au même besoin. L’Algo permet aux intervenants non‐ergothérapeutes (INEs) d’évaluer les besoins

d’équipement pour l’hygiène. Or, sa fidélité interévaluateurs modérée (kappa=0,43) documente peu les

divergences. Objectifs : Identifier les désaccords de cotation entre les INEs et formuler des recommandations pour

améliorer la fidélité. Méthodes: Dans cette étude de cas multiples (devis qualitatif), 8 INEs furent formés à l’Algo

(ex. : auxiliaires) pour l’utiliser avec 6 patients standardisés. Les INEs furent filmés, puis rencontrés en entretien

d’explicitation pour 2 patients ayant reçu des recommandations divergentes. Résultats : Les analyses intracas et

intercas ont identifié les actions cognitives et les informations du raisonnement des INEs. 3 recommandations

furent émises: 1) Objectiver les informations à recueillir (ex.: force de préhension); 2) Trianguler les informations

considérées (ex.: avis du patient et jugement professionnel) et 3) Argumenter l'équipement recommandé.

Conclusions : Explorer le raisonnement est pertinent pour révéler les divergences dans le raisonnement

d’intervenants utilisant un outil pouvant diminuer les situations d’injustice occupationnelle dues au manque de

ressources.

F15 Utility of a primary care relationship building interprofessional collaboration model


Pamela Wener (University of Manitoba, Winnipeg) [email protected] Roberta Woodgate, Lisa

Mendez


Rationale: Student occupational therapists assigned to interprofessional primary care teams for fieldwork

education may not have a supervising occupational therapist on site. While research on the occupational therapy

role may guide the students' functions, a model about establishing interprofessional collaborative relationships

with primary care teams is lacking. Objectives: To present a model of interprofessional collaborative relationship

building in primary care and explore the utility of this model to guide student occupational therapists entering this

practice setting. Approach: Grounded theory methodology was used to develop a model to guide interprofessional

relationship building in primary care settings. The resulting model was presented to senior student occupational

therapists assigned to primary care settings for fieldwork education. Post fieldwork, students participated in a

focus group to explore the ease‐of‐use and relevance of the model to relationship building in past, current and

future primary care occupational therapy. Two authors will conduct directed content analysis to explore how the

model components were understood and applied to practice. Practice Implications: It is anticipated that these

students will report that the developmental stages, processes and structures of the model clarified and guided


their collaborative relationship building process during their fieldwork in primary care. Students, now practitioners,

may also discuss the relevance of the model in guiding their current and future occupational therapy practice.

Conclusions: Student occupational therapists value having a model to guide their relationship building with

members of the interprofessional primary care team. Further research is required to explore the application of this

model to occupational therapists joining primary care teams.

F16 Enhancing Occupational Therapy Service Delivery in School Settings


Leah Zajic (Louis Riel School Division, Winnipeg) [email protected] Tammy Favreau, Rosanne Papadopoulos,

Dawn Tecter, Lisa Tymchuk


Introduction: Increasing demand for Occupational Therapy (OT) in school settings has necessitated development of

alternative service delivery models. One model currently being employed represents a shift away from

individualized service, towards systemic, classroom‐based service. Objectives: The objective of this model is to

provide sufficient education and support to educational staff, in order to implement OT strategies more widely to

benefit all students. Approach: OT service is based on a three‐tiered model of intervention: 85% of therapy time

and resources are allotted to classroom‐based and division‐wide initiatives; 10% is intended for student specific

consultation; and 5% is reserved for individualized formal assessment and program planning. The following

activities develop the capacity of teachers to understand and implement OT strategies in the classroom: 1. in‐

service training for all levels of staffs 2. creating online resources 3. providing tools and materials for classroom use

4. ongoing school consultation and collaboration. Practice Implications: The client for OT service is shifted from

students to educational staffs, allowing a wider range of students to benefit from OT supports and strategies. The

OT is more likely to work with all students in classrooms, assisting the teacher to adapt for special learning needs,

rather than performing individualized assessment and intervention. Conclusions: This model shift towards building

capacity of educational staffs has the potential to create more occupationally‐just school environments. Students

with a wide range of skills and abilities are more able to participate and engage in meaningful learning activities

when OT strategies are integrated into daily classroom routines.

F17


Paper presentations

F18 Occupation on the Street ‐ Building Success Stories


Elizabeth Taylor (University of Alberta, Edmonton) [email protected] Marliss Taylor


Introduction: Women who survive through prostitution are among the most vulnerable of our society. Daily they

face the challenges of poverty, racism and violence. Survival has often depended on their core occupations that

enhance their safety and provide a sense of community with their peers. Occupational therapists working in

agencies that support these women must understand what their lives entail on a daily basis, in order to help

develop the occupations necessary for effective transition from street living to a more stable community life.

Objectives: 1. To understand how the life experience of these working women contributed to their occupations;

and 2. Translate this understanding into creating community programs that will optimise the building of new

occupations with these women for effective transition into more stable community environments. Methods: While

working as part of a harm reduction program, the researcher, using narrative inquiry collected life stories from the

participants over a period of two years. Stories were then synthesized and core themes were analyzed in order to

understand current occupations, strengths, resources and most effective strategies that could be utilized in

programs. Results: Two central themes emerged ‐ that of “importance of basic occupations” in spite of


sophisticated survival skills/ occupations that have sustained street living and “understanding safe social

engagement” that supports the learning of new relational interactions in a variety of settings. Conclusion:

Occupational therapists working with this population will be provided with an understanding of how to address

their complex needs through more strategic and refined programming.

F19 Closing the gap: Advancing occupational therapists' role addressing suicide


Heather Vrbanac (McMaster University, Hamilton ) [email protected] Ryan Collins, Kim Hewitt


Introduction: Suicide crosses demographics and impacts individuals and communities across Canada (Canadian

Association for Suicide Prevention, n.d.). Thoughts of suicide can significantly interfere with engagement in

occupations that are both important and essential to everyday living and participation in communities. Objectives:

To examine how ready, willing, and able Canadian occupational therapists are to address suicide‐related issues in

practice by reviewing both quantitative and qualitative evidence. Methods: Data was gathered through a mixed

methods approach comprising of an electronic survey sent to 5,614 Canadian occupational therapists, and ten

semi‐structured interviews. Kruskal‐Wallis analysis with post‐hoc exploration, and qualitative content analysis

were applied to the collected data. Results: Surveys were completed by 586 Canadian occupational therapists.

Results demonstrated a difference between willingness and preparedness of occupational therapists to intervene

with clients thinking of suicide, with therapists being more willing than prepared. Survey results indicated

statistically significant support for the role of occupational therapists in suicide prevention, intervention, and

postvention. Content analysis of interview transcripts led to the identification of six common themes, including:

ethics in practice, engagement in life, and professional development. Conclusions: Occupational therapists are

ready for a shift to action to address issues of suicide in practice. Quantitative and qualitative study findings can be

used to promote and support a change in the Canadian occupational therapy climate surrounding the

management of suicide‐related issues in practice. Addressing the perceived gap between willingness and

preparedness to manage suicide‐related issues will enable occupational therapists to support engagement in

occupations and participation in communities.

F20 Youths with Developmental Disabilities Speak Out About Their Friendships


Rebecca Renwick (University of Toronto, Toronto) [email protected] Debra Cameron


Introduction: Having friendships during the transition years, from high school entry through early adulthood, is

important to the development and maintenance of psychosocial health and quality of life for youths with

developmental disabilities (DD). To date, research on this issue is scarce and previous studies focus on perspectives

of parents and teachers. Objectives: Accordingly, this qualitative research aims to enrich understanding about the

meaning, importance, and nature of friendships for youths with DD by exploring their own perspectives on and

experiences with friendship. Approach: The research, which is informed by the social model of disability, includes

36 participating youths (13 to 24 years) with DD and one friend chosen by each. The youths participated in two

video‐recorded, semi‐structured interview sessions (one alone, one interacting with the chosen friend) in

community‐based settings of their choice where they regularly engaged in occupations. Results: Grounded theory

methods used to conduct analysis of data (video footage) revealed several key themes related to: meanings and

importance these youths attach to friendship as well as opportunities for and challenges of making and keeping

friends. Conclusions: From an occupational justice perspective, information from youths with DD themselves about

the meaning, formation, and maintenance of friendships is necessary in order to provide an adequate basis for

developing/enriching occupational therapy interventions and programs aimed at promoting and supporting

psychosocial health and quality of life for youths with DD. Future directions for research are outlined.


F21 Occupation, Health and Well‐Being in Chronic Homelessness: A Scoping Review


Carrie Anne Marshall (Queen's University, Kingston) [email protected] Rosemary Lysaght


Introduction: Occupational therapists are concerned with the relationship between occupation and health and

well‐being (Townsend & Polatajko, 2007). The scope of the literature focusing on this relationship for chronically

homeless persons, however, is unknown. To date, OT and Occupational Science research has been scant with

respect to identifying the occupational engagement of homeless persons. Of the existing homelessness research in

OT, an emphasis on intervention has been the primary area of investigation (Thomas, Gray and McGinty, 2011).

Objectives: To identify the interdisciplinary research to date that focuses on the relationship between occupation

and health and wellbeing among persons experiencing chronic homelessness. Methods: A scoping review strategy

using the method suggested by Arksey & O'Malley (2005) was used to answer the search question: What

interdisciplinary research has been completed to date that focuses on the relationship between occupation or

activity and health and wellbeing among persons experiencing chronic homelessness? Results: 55 articles were

derived from 7databases. Literature focusing on the relationship among occupation and health and wellbeing

among homeless persons has been increasing over time. Substance use, spirituality, self‐care, spirituality, and

occupational marginalization were discussed in relation to health. Conclusions: A paucity of literature that

addresses the relationship between occupation and health and well‐being of chronically homeless persons

suggests that further research is needed. Occupational therapists and occupational scientists, as experts in

occupation, are well positioned to contribute to this literature to a more significant degree.

F22 Adaptation et validation du Handwriting Assessment Protocol (HAP) Phase 2


Laïka St‐Denis (Université de Sherbrooke) laika_st‐[email protected] Sophie Corriveau, Danyka Giguère, Jade

Santagata, Audrey Ann Trudeau, Mélanie Couture, Emmanuelle Jasmin

Présentation par affiche : Éducation, Enfants/ Adolescents général

Introduction/Raison d'être: Les ergothérapeutes doivent souvent évaluer l'écriture manuelle des enfants du

primaire. Cependant, peu d'outils en français sont disponibles pour évaluer cette occupation. Objectifs: L'étude

vise à adapter et valider les tâches du HAP pour les enfants franco‐québécois des 2e et 3e cycles du primaire ainsi

qu'à développer des valeurs de référence concernant la vitesse de l'écriture manuelle chez ces enfants. Méthodes:

Les phrases ont été soumises à des orthophonistes, des ergothérapeutes et des enseignants pour déterminer

celles qui étaient les plus appropriées pour les enfants franco‐québécois des 2e et 3e cycles du primaire. Puis, les

tâches du HAP ont été administrées en groupe à 201 élèves de 12 classes différentes. Les données recueillies ont

été analysées pour déterminer des valeurs de référence concernant la vitesse d'écriture selon des courbes de

distribution normale pour chaque niveau scolaire. Résultats: Présentement, l’analyse des données n’est pas

terminée. Des valeurs de référence de vitesse d'écriture manuelle seront obtenues pour les tâches de copie de

près et de loin pour les enfants des 2e et 3e cycles du primaire. Conclusion: Cette étude contribuera à bonifier

l'évaluation ergothérapique de l'écriture manuelle chez les enfants franco‐québécois des 2e et 3e cycles du

primaire. En leur offrant des tâches validées et des valeurs de référence, ils auront droit, eux aussi, à une

évaluation adaptée à leurs besoins. Les ergothérapeutes pourront utiliser les tâches de la version francophone du

HAP pour évaluer les enfants et comparer leurs résultats aux valeurs de référence obtenues avec cette étude.

F23 The evolution of role‐emerging fieldwork: Impact on student fieldwork opportunities


Margaret Anne Campbell‐Rempel (University of Manitoba, Winnipeg) margaretanne.campbell‐

[email protected] Lisa Mendez



Introduction: Role‐emerging fieldwork was originally conceived to facilitate student‐centred fieldwork

opportunities in settings with limited or no occupational therapy involvement. However, the resources required to

develop single fieldwork opportunities based on student interest was unsustainable. Increased enrollment and

transition to a master's entry‐level program resulted in pressure for a greater variety and number of fieldwork

placements. As a result, this Canadian University redeveloped their role‐emerging fieldwork program. Objectives:

Role‐emerging fieldwork placements across the last 10 years within one university program were examined for

changing demographics. Methods: Applying a retrospective fieldwork database review, descriptive statistics were

used to determine the number and type of role‐emerging fieldwork opportunities provided to students over the

past decade. The breadth of placements and trends were also examined across sectors. Results: In the 2013 ‐ 2014

academic year eighteen second year student occupational therapists had the opportunity to complete a role‐

emerging placement as opposed to only 6 students having a similar opportunity in the 2004‐2005 academic year.

The majority of placements focus on supporting at risk individuals and families with a growing number in the

primary health sector. Role‐emerging placements increased the breadth of opportunities offered to student

occupational therapists. Conclusions: Role‐emerging fieldwork provides opportunities for students to develop skills

in practice settings that are not generally a part of established occupational therapy practice. Redevelopment of a

role‐emerging fieldwork program can result in a more sustainable program that helps to advance the profession

and expand recognition of occupational therapy's contributions to new areas of practice.

F24 Dépistage préscolaire des enfants francophones en situation minoritaire


Elysia Pan (University of Ottawa, Ottawa) [email protected] Jacinthe Savard, Rose Martini

Présentation par affiche : Communauté, Enfants/ Adolescents général

Introduction: Les problèmes moteurs, langagiers et d'attention à l'âge préscolaire peuvent mettre l'enfant à risque

de développer des difficultés scolaires. Une intervention précoce peut prévenir ces difficultés en permettant de

mieux préparer les enfants pour l'école. Un outil ou processus de dépistage efficace est essentiel pour l'accès à des

interventions précoces pour les jeunes francophones qui vivent en situation minoritaire. Objectifs: le but de ce

projet est d'entreprendre une «scoping review» pour déterminer ce qui existe comme outil ou processus de

dépistage en français pour les enfants d'âge préscolaire par rapport aux difficultés motrices, langagières ou

d'attention, ainsi que les éléments à considérer pour le dépistage d'enfants en situation linguistique minoritaire.

Méthodes: une recherche a été effectuée dans les bases données en utilisant des mots clés spécifiques pour trois

difficultés : motricité, attention et langage. Résultats: la recherche dans les bases de données a fait ressortir 403

articles, dont 56 qui ont été jugé pertinents. Dans ces articles, 22 parlent d'une minorité espagnole, 18 d'une

minorité française et 4 d'autres groupes minoritaires. Conclusions: Les résultats de cette recension permettront de

déterminer les manques et les priorités pour améliorer le dépistage précoce pour les enfants d'âge préscolaire en

contexte francophone minoritaire. La grande majorité des outils d'évaluations existants pour dépister les enfants à

risque de troubles d'apprentissage sont en anglais, et la plupart des traductions françaises ne sont pas fiables ou

même non existantes.

F25 Exploring the theoretical assumptions of the Person‐Environment‐Occupation Model


Patricia Rigby (University of Toronto, Toronto) [email protected] Mary Law, Debra Stewart


Introduction: The Person‐Environment‐Occupation (PEO) Model is widely used nationally and internationally to

guide occupational therapy practice and research. The original articles introducing the model by Law et al., 1996

and Strong et al., 1999 have been cited in over 600 peer‐reviewed publications. There are several major theoretical

assumptions inherent in the model; with the central assumption being, the more congruent the PEO relationship,

the more optimal the outcome, occupational performance. Objective: A scoping study is underway to answer the

question ‐ What is the extent, range, and nature of evidence to support the theoretical assumptions of the PEO

Model in literature that has cited the PEO Model? Methods: The 5‐stage Arksey and O'Malley (2005) framework is


being used to structure this scoping study. In the 5th stage, we will use qualitative content analysis techniques to

examine trends in the literature in relation to the theoretical assumptions of the PEO Model. During the analysis of

preliminary findings, we will consult with experts in translating occupational therapy theory into practice to gain

greater reflection about the meaning of the findings. Results: The results will be organized in two ways: a) a

descriptive, numerical summary of included publications; and b) a thematic mapping of the findings to examine the

validity of the model, and gaps in research. Conclusions: Findings from this review can provide: a) support for the

validity of the PEO model; b) direction for updating and strengthening the model; and c) direction for applying the

PEO model to practice and research.

F26 Occupational justice: New concept or historical foundation of occupational therapy?


Juliette Cooper (University of Manitoba, Winnipeg) [email protected] Donna Campbell, Debra

Froese, Brenda Head, Natalie MacLeod‐Schroeder, Nicolas McCarthy

Extended discussion : Theory, Non‐specific to Client Group

Introduction ‐ Occupation is essential to well‐being and occupational therapists believe that individuals and

communities have the right to participation in meaningful occupation. In the late 19th century the Settlement

House Movement in Britain advocated for improved living conditions for marginalized populations; in the early

20th century workers at settlement houses in Canada taught life skills to newly‐arrived immigrant and poor

populations to decrease dependency, build community and improve quality of life, early manifestations of health

promotion and disease prevention and elements of occupational justice. Occupational therapy evolved from the

Settlement House Movement. Objectives ‐ To present concepts of occupational justice inherent in the Settlement

House Movement and discuss how these are reflected in contemporary Canadian occupational therapy practice.

Approach ‐Material from the CAOT Archives will be presented; participants will be asked to use an occupational

justice lens to reflect on links between the past and current occupational therapy practice with vulnerable

populations. Practice Implications ‐ Changes in the makeup of Canadian society and delivery of health and social

services challenge concepts of occupational justice; reflection on our history can help occupational therapy

practice evolve to meet the present and future needs of Canadians. Conclusions ‐ Elements of occupational justice

were embodied by the Settlement House Movement and were the foundation of early occupational therapy

practice in Canada.

F27 A Manager's Use of Evidence to Develop a Business Case


Louise Nichol (Winnipeg Regional Health Authority, Winnipeg) [email protected]

Paper presentations : Administration Health Policy, Adult General

Introduction: Consumers, policymakers, funders are increasingly requiring that best practice recommendations

inform requests for program initiatives. Occupational Therapy education and practice emphasize the use of

evidence‐based practice by clinicians, but rarely discuss the need for its application by managers. This paper will

review the various forms of evidence used to develop a successful business case for the delivery of stroke care

services across the continuum, and that resulted in additional funding for a community stroke rehabilitation

service. Objectives: To demonstrate how the Canadian Best Practice Recommendations for Stroke Care (2014) and

other sources of evidence were used to develop proposals for the initiation, expansion and reorganization or

stroke care across the continuum of care. Approach: The presentation will highlight: 1) the process used to develop

a business case for the expansion and reorganization of existing stroke care services; and 2) how multiple sources

of evidence, including best practice recommendations, economic and clinical data, analysis of conservable bed

days, and staffing levels, were used to advocate for practice and funding changes. Practice Implications: Clinicians,

managers and program developers have an ethical and professional responsibility to ensure client services are

grounded in sound research, knowledge, and evidence. Optimal client care, professional competency and fiscal

accountability are the outcomes when healthcare planning is guided by evidence. Conclusion: The use of evidence

is a fundamental component of occupational therapy practice and essential when advocating for change and


enhanced funding. Occupational Therapists share responsibility to use best available evidence regardless of their

practice role.

F28 Learning about Occupational Therapy in an Interprofessional Placement


Jacinthe Savard (Université d'Ottawa, Ottawa) [email protected] Estelle Éthier, Claire‐Jehanne Dubouloz


Introduction: Interprofessional education (IPE) aims to guide students in developing core competencies required

for effective interprofessional collaboration. According to CHIC National Interprofessional Competency Framework,

one of these competencies is Role clarification. Objective: The present study aimed at identifying the elements of

the role of occupational therapists that were learned by students from other professions doing a placement in an

interprofessional university clinic. Methods: At the beginning of their placement, students were required to write a

short definition of the various professions they were to meet during their placement. At the end of the placement,

they were asked to complete their first definition with new elements learned during their placement. Data were

analysed qualitatively through content analysis. Results: 37 students provided both pre and post placement

definitions of Occupational Therapy. Most frequent changes to their initial definition consisted in a broader

definition of the profession with more elements related to the scope of practice, and/or an addition of specific

areas of practice unknown to them before the placement. Conclusion: The results will be useful to occupational

therapists in bringing to their attention aspects of their role they need to better explain for a more comprehensive

understanding of our profession.

F29 Occupational Narratives of Women with Severe and Enduring Eating Disorders


Anahita Jabbari (University of Toronto) [email protected] Darlene De Leon, Hadassah Rais, Jane

Davis, Barry Trentham


Introduction: Individuals with eating disorders have the highest mortality rate of all mental illnesses, and women

with severe and enduring eating disorders are at greater risk of mortality than men. These women encounter

complex physical, emotional, and social challenges that significantly shape their lives. However, little is known

about the daily occupational routines and engagement of women with this illness. Understanding this populations

occupational journey may explain how occupational choices intersect with their lived experiences and inform

client‐centred care and program planning for practitioners. Objectives: The aim of this study is to understand the

occupational lives of women living with a severe and enduring eating disorder through their occupational

narratives. Methods: We will use narrative inquiry to gain insight into how their occupational engagement

successes and challenges are experienced within the context of their daily lives. Three women with a severe and

enduring eating disorder, who are participants in a community‐based eating disorder program will be interviewed.

Using semi‐structured interviews, we will co‐construct the stories of these women. Narrative analysis will be used

to uncover occupational engagement patterns and transitions over time as well as the meanings associated with

occupational choices. Results: The occupational narratives composed with these women will illuminate unique

experiences that will inform treatment and develop further knowledge and understanding of how occupational

engagement may support recovery. Conclusions: Information collected from this study has the potential to

encourage hope, innovative practices, and support recovery for women with severe and enduring eating disorders.

F30 Applying a consultative model for pressure management in acute care


Danielle Harling (Health Sciences Centre, Winnipeg) [email protected]



Introduction: Pressure management is a rapidly expanding area of clinical focus for acute care occupational

therapists in our setting. To support implementing evidence informed practice, existing best practice guidelines

need to be adapted to meet the urgent and dynamic demands of acute care. One strategy to support this

implementation is the development of a pressure management consultant role. Objectives: 1) Review

development of a pressure management consultant role in acute care; 2) Describe the implementation of a

comprehensive strategy to integrate pressure management interventions into acute care occupational therapy

practice. Approach: A review of research and "grey" literature and consultations with local clinical experts from

varied practice settings were used to develop a learning strategy. Primary goals identified were to support ongoing

learning and to provide mentorship for acute care occupational therapists. Using program development and

evaluation, initiatives including educational modules, mentorship opportunities, and resources to support evidence

informed practice were implemented. Practice Implications: The consultant role is a primary strategy to support

ongoing skill development and mentorship for occupational therapists in pressure management. The consultant's

primary role function is to disseminate best practices to other frontline therapists and support them in

implementation of these practices. This has led to increased confidence and proficiency of acute care therapists in

providing pressure management interventions. Conclusions: The consultant role in pressure management in acute

care has generated new strategies to support frontline staff. It has provided opportunities to support occupational

therapists in implementation of consistent, evidence‐informed pressure management interventions for their

clients.

F31 Winter 'n' wheels: Understanding stakeholder’s experiences of winter sidewalk accessibility.


Deepak Joshi (University of Manitoba, Winnipeg) [email protected] Jacquie Ripat, Emily Etcheverry, Gina

Sylvestre


Rationale: Community participation during the cold winter months is difficult for wheeled mobility device (WMD)

users due to challenging sidewalk surfaces with the presence of snow and ice. However, limited attention has been

given to understanding this problem, and collaboratively identifying solutions with stakeholders. Objectives: This

qualitative study explored the issues faced by key stakeholders (WMD users and Public Works Department

employees) regarding use and provision of accessible sidewalks in winter and identified solutions. Methods:

Researchers used an interpretive description approach to bring together key stakeholders perspectives. Eleven

participants informed the study through a combination of go‐along interviews, key informant interviews,

photographs, and meteorological data. The research team first engaged in an open coding process followed with

the analysis of codes at a descriptive level, and then combined them to form categories. Following this, an

interpretive analysis of emerging categories resulted in the development of overarching themes. Results: Four

themes were identified: the context of winter season, winter and wheels interact, winter versus the city, and a

framework for winter access and success. Solutions included creating awareness, taking action, and assuming

accountability through collaborative efforts and increased information sharing. Conclusion: Winter conditions

create distinct challenges in providing accessible sidewalks for WMD users. Based on the perspectives of informed

stakeholders this study contributes to the development of focused interventions for overcoming winter sidewalk

barriers and thus, enabling winter community participation of WMD users.

F32 Does education policy disadvantage children growing up in military families?


Kristin Ostler (Queen's University ) [email protected] Heidi Cramm

Poster defense : Education, Child/Adolescent Psychosocial Health

Introduction: Children growing up in military families move at 3 to 4 times the rate compared to their civilian

counterparts. With each of these moves comes a transition out of an existing school environment and into a new

school setting that will have different social and institutional policies as well as curriculum standards. Objectives:

To explore the extent to which education policies place children within military families at a disadvantage with


respect to their participation and success at school. Methods: A policy analysis will be conducted to identify key

elements vital to understanding and judging current education policy. A rationalist model, formulated by Patton

(2011), will be used as the analytical framework. A systematic inventory phase exploring education policy will

precede a constrained search for alternatives, at which point the problem will be described and recommendations

to enhance occupational justice will be made. Practice Implications: Currently, children growing up in military

families may present with increased academic and behavioural issues related to the unique stressors of military

life, including its highly mobile nature. These children are disadvantaged by policy that limits the portability of their

educational records and creates barriers to the integration of curriculum standards across provincial jurisdiction.

Occupational therapists can play a key role in advocating for enhanced services that can be targeted at redressing

these systematic occupational injustices. Conclusion: Continued policy analysis is required to explore the gaps in

current education policy that disadvantage children growing up in military families. Areas to target include

alignment of provincial jurisdictions and strategies to enhance the portability and integration of educational

records.

F33 The Impact of Participating in a Qualitative Inquiry Using Photovoice


Lauren Geloso (University of Ottawa, Ottawa) [email protected] Sara Smits, Julie Brezden, Tricia Morrison


Introduction: Recently, arts‐based inquiry methods have emerged. Photovoice, one such methodology, is a form of

participatory action research through which participants use photographs to represent and identify elements of

their personal experiences. This methodology was recently used with 25 cancer survivors to explore their

experiences of either work reintegration or living with Lymphedema. Several participants spontaneously expressed

therapeutic participatory benefits. Objectives: The objective of this research project is to explore photovoice

research participants' experiences toward an enhanced understanding of photovoice research methodology.

Methodology: Phenomenological methodology will be used as a means of describing the idiographic meaning that

participants associate to their experience of participating in this arts‐based research study. Three to six

participants are being recruited, both male and female cancer survivors over the age of 18 who have participated

in the previous occupational therapy studies. Each participant will be individually interviewed and a narrative

representation of their experience will be created following a qualitative analysis. Practice Implications: The results

of this study will influence knowledge about the potential impacts of photovoice research methods on participants.

Conclusions: The findings of this inquiry may allow occupational therapy researchers to enhance their knowledge

into the implications of photovoice methodology.

F34 Knowledge translation and occupational therapy: A survey of university programs


Heidi Cramm (Queen's University, Kingston) [email protected] Blair Short


Introduction. Canadian occupational therapy has recognized knowledge translation as essential to clinical

interactions, with little attention on knowledge translation activity in education and research. A recent study

explored the aggregated ways in which university programs, regulatory bodies, and professional associations

engage in knowledge translation, laying the foundation for further exploration of knowledge translation activity in

each. Objectives. To identify the nature and range of knowledge translation activities in which faculty members in

Canadian occupational therapy programs engage. Methods. A short survey was developed to explore the nature of

faculty knowledge translation research and education activities, types of knowledge translation strategies used

and how they are evaluated, and barriers and facilitators to engaging in knowledge translation activities. After pilot

testing, the chairs of all 14 Canadian university programs were contacted and asked to distribute the online link to

core faculty. Results. Faculty engage in a wide range of knowledge translation activities, faculty tend to engage in

knowledge translation with other researchers within their institution, and favour integrated and end‐of‐grant

knowledge translation. Conferences and peer‐reviewed publications are the most common knowledge translation


strategies. Partnerships, collaborations, and personal interest were identified as common facilitators; time and

funding were seen as barriers. Conclusions. Canadian occupational therapy faculty engage in a range of knowledge

translation activities with a range of partners, using a variety of strategies. Understanding the profile of knowledge

translation activity across universities creates opportunities for developing institutional and pan‐Canadian plans to

enhance knowledge translation training and capacity within the profession.

F35 Diagnosing mental disorders with DSM‐5: risks and opportunities for occupational therapy


Catherine Vallée (Université Laval, Québec) [email protected] Julie Desrosiers

Paper presentations : Institution, Non‐specific to Client Group

Rationale: Establishing a psychiatric diagnosis is a reserved act outside occupational therapists' practice scope.

However, therapists frequently contribute to the diagnosis process through their assessments. A strict

interpretation of the 2009 revision to Quebec's Code des professions, minimises potential contributions of many

professionals. Meanwhile, the new DSM‐5 includes descriptors and criteria that rely more on functional

assessments. Objectives: To identify potential risks for service quality associated with a narrow interpretation of

the Act and potential opportunities to more fully realize occupational therapy's practice scope. Approach: Expert

occupational therapists critically analyzed the DSM‐5, identifying the changes made through constant comparison

with previous editions. Functional descriptors used to confirm a mental disorder or assess its severity were

examined, as were the means recommended to assess functioning, including the WHODAS 2.0 adaptation. The

relevance of this adaptation was examined for all populations targeted by the DSM‐5. Practice Implications:

Functional assessments as presented raise important ethical and scientific concerns. Moreover, the influence of

environmental factors, the abilities or the coping strategies developed by individuals are not captured, which may

affect the determination of prognosis. Finally, several diagnoses rely on the functional or developmental

descriptors, or involve the assessment of the play, activities of daily living, or occupational patterns, suggesting a

critical occupational therapy role. Conclusion: Functional assessments must be conducted with scientific rigour.

Occupational therapists can contribute significantly to this process. Changes in the DSM‐5 offer occupational

therapists opportunities to assert their expertise in functional assessments and negotiate their place within mental

health services.

F36 Enabling participation: Work and school experiences with Inflammatory Bowel Disease


Alexandria Simms (University of Manitoba, Winnipeg) [email protected] Gayle Restall, John

Walker, Lesley Graff, Kathryn Sexton, Linda Rogala, Laura Targownik, Clove Haviva, Charles Bernstein


Introduction: Occupational therapists facilitate access to accommodations in school and work settings for people

living with chronic health conditions. Inflammatory bowel disease is a chronic health condition that can create

challenges for ongoing participation in education and work. Little is known about the experiences and needs for

accommodation of people living with inflammatory bowel disease in school and work settings. Objective: To

understand the experiences of people living with inflammatory bowel disease and the impact of the disease on

their activities and participation in social and community life. Methods: Participants for this phenomenological

study were purposively selected from a research registry of people with inflammatory bowel disease from a

provincial cohort study. Recruitment strategies aimed for diversity in age, sex, and disease type, duration and

severity. In‐depth interviews sought information about their experiences of living with inflammatory bowel

disease. Data were analysed using inductive qualitative methods. Results: Forty‐five people participated; 51% were

women. The mean age was 45 ± 16 years. Themes related to factors affecting access and use of accommodations,

in school and work settings will be reported. Preliminary themes include: knowledge of the availability of

accommodations, work culture, acceptance of disease, access to employee health benefits, person‐occupation fit,

and importance of flexible, individualised accommodation. Conclusions: The results of this study will highlight

interventions that occupational therapists can implement to facilitate work and school participation of individuals


with chronic conditions, such as inflammatory bowel disease. These interventions include education and advocacy

for accessible and inclusive school and work environments.

F37 Interventions for women experiencing substance abuse issues: A scoping review


Alison Leppard (University of Toronto) [email protected] Margaret Ramsay, Andrea Duncan, Cindy

Malachowski, Jane Davis


Rationale: Any occupation done to excess has the potential to have a negative impact on health leading to a

perceived sense of occupational imbalance and decreased well‐being. One such occupation, substance use, can

lead to compulsive substance craving, seeking, and addiction. Evidence has shown that women's pattern of

substance use and abuse differ from men's, which has led to an interest in gender‐sensitive (GS) intervention

programs. Currently, little is known about the content and processes of these interventions. Objectives: This study

will identify the content and processes of current GS substance abuse interventions. Methods: A scoping review

methodology will be used to examine peer‐reviewed journals and relevant grey literature following the framework

of Arksey and O'Malley (2007). Information concerning the content and processes of the interventions will be

compiled and charted, and emerging themes will be identified. Consultation with key opinion leaders will also be

used. Results: Limited details about the content and processes of specific GS interventions is expected in the peer‐

reviewed literature. By reviewing grey literature and engaging in consultation, it is expected that specific content

and processes of GS interventions will be identified and, potentially, common characteristics will emerge.

Conclusion: The findings of this study will inform clinicians working with women experiencing substance abuse

issues of the details of available interventions and support the creation of improved GS interventions based on the

common elements of interventions found in the literature.

F38 Autonomous Goal Setting for Youth with Autism: A Scoping Study


Sandra Hodgetts (University of Alberta, Edmonton) [email protected] Elly Park

Poster defense : Administration Health Policy, Child/Adolescent General

Introduction: Increased self‐determination for people with developmental disabilities, including autism spectrum

disorder (ASD), has been linked to greater self‐efficacy and increased opportunities for community involvement,

post‐secondary schooling, and employment (Carter, 2013). Autonomous participation in therapeutic goal setting is

an important component of self‐determination; however, current clinical practice rarely includes direct input from

children and adolescents with ASD as part of the goal setting process. Objectives: This scoping study aims to

identify, describe and summarize existing literature on tools and strategies to support autonomous goal setting

and self‐determination for children and adolescents (9‐18 years) with ASD. Methods: Arksey and O'Malley's (2005)

methodological framework for conducting scoping studies, with additional considerations outlined by Levac and

colleagues (2010), guided the review process. English‐language databases and grey literature were searched using

terms related to goal setting, self‐determination (e.g., collaborative, decision‐making, individualized, self‐

advocacy), and ASD. We also manually searched reference lists of pertinent papers and resource lists from

websites of organizations that have published self‐determination and goal‐setting measures (e.g., CanChild, Centre

for Childhood Disability Research). Results: Six journal articles and one dissertation met the inclusion criteria. We

will summarize specific strategies (e.g., Goal Attainment Scaling), and tools (e.g., Canadian Occupational

Performance Measure), participant outcomes, and participant characteristics (e.g., intellectual and language

abilities) that may influence participation and/or outcomes. Conclusion: Including the person with ASD in the goal

setting process is an important component of client‐centered practice. Findings will identify appropriate

approaches and tools for integrating autonomous goal setting into occupational therapy research and practice.

F39 Impact of Low‐income on Post‐Stroke Rehabilitation and Recovery: a Pilot Study



Katrine Sauve (University of Ottawa) [email protected] Sarah Bernard, Mary Egan


Background. People who have low incomes tend to suffer more severe strokes and poorer recovery. However, the

process by which low income affects stroke rehabilitation is unclear. Objective. To begin to understand how low

income may affect in‐patient stroke rehabilitation. Methods. A multiple descriptive case study method was used.

The cases were two patients being treated on a stroke rehabilitation unit. Data was collected through interviews

and chart review, and was coded and categorized. Results were examined to determine fit with the theoretical

proposition that low income affects recovery through limiting access to products and equipment, treatment and

services, medication, and transportation, and creating stress. Results. Low‐income affected access to products and

equipment, treatment and services, medication, transportation, and housing. Concerns regarding access to

housing and medication, as well as complex application procedures for funding assistance, were stress producing.

The impact of these issues was influenced by vulnerability factors including social network characteristics, age,

language, and health system knowledge. Conclusion. Occupational therapists should be sensitive to the potential

impact of low income on post‐stroke rehabilitation, particularly in the presence of vulnerability factors.

F40 Developing a population‐based fine motor index using a Delphi process


Heather Skelton [email protected] Leanne Leclair

Poster defense : Administration Health Policy, Child/Adolescent Physical Health

Introduction: Emerging research suggests fine motor/visual motor (FM/VM) skills in kindergarten predict later

school performance. The Early Development Instrument (EDI) (Janus, & Offord, 2007) is used to assess population

level school readiness in Canada and other countries. While FM/VM skills are imbedded within the EDI, they are

not analyzed separately. Being able to identify if gaps exist in FM/VM readiness could inform FM/VM programming

in the early years. Objectives: With pediatric occupational therapists, develop a FM/VM Index from items on the

EDI using a Delphi method. Methods: Occupational therapists working with preschool and early school‐aged

children were invited to participate in an on‐line Delphi process. In each Delphi round, participants ranked all EDI

questions on a 9‐point scale. Where consensus established that the item was not a visual motor or fine motor task

that item was removed for subsequent rounds. Rounds were completed when consensus was reached on all EDI

items. Results: Three rounds of the survey were required to complete the Delphi process. Following round one, 46

of the original 58 questions remained. Round two further reduced the number of potential questions to 27 and

round three resulted in a FM/VM index containing 11 questions. Conclusions: A FM/VM Index was created from

existing EDI items. Further research is required to determine the internal consistency of the index. From there, a

cutoff score needs to be established in order to enable identification of populations of children who are vulnerable

to poor school outcomes due to insufficient FM/VM skill.

F41 Going upstream: Screening for Social‐Emotional Competency in Toddlers


Gayle Restall (University of Manitoba, Winnipeg) [email protected] Leanne Leclair, Alexandria

Simms

Poster defense : Community, Child/Adolescent Psychosocial Health

Introduction: Concerns from school personnel about the lack of social‐emotional readiness of many kindergarten

children have increased attention to early screening for social‐emotional competency. Screening toddlers for

social‐emotional risk can identify children who may benefit from successful early intervention programs for the

prevention of later difficulties. Objectives: Estimate the prevalence of social‐emotional risk in 18‐month old

children in a pediatric primary care setting and compare the agreement of risk across four parent‐report screening

tools. Methods: We recruited a convenience sample of parents with children attending their 18‐month well‐child

visit. An occupational therapist facilitated parent‐reported screening using the Parents' Evaluation of

Developmental Status, Ages and Stages Questionnaire‐3, Ages and Stages Questionnaire: Social Emotional, and


Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers. We also collected socio‐demographic information. Results: Of the 250

children screened, 9.2% (95% CI=5.6‐12.8) were identified as "at risk" using the Ages and Stages Questionnaire:

Social‐Emotional and 11.7% (95% CI =7.7‐15.7) using the Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers. In addition,

27.6% (95% CI =22.1‐33.1) of parents reported concerns about their child's behaviour and 17.7% (95% CI = 13.0‐

22.4) about their child's social emotional development on the Parents' Evaluation of Developmental Status. We

found little agreement of risk across tools. Conclusions: The results suggest that screening toddlers for social‐

emotional risk may be useful to identify children and parents for early intervention, but combining results with

clinical judgment is essential because of lack of consistent results among the four screens investigated. Decisions

about the most useful screening tool will be enhanced through future longitudinal research.

F42 Being the Other‐Lived Experiences of Two Métis Occupational Therapists


Theresa Sullivan (University of Manitoba, Winnipeg) [email protected] Samantha Pollock,

Heather Yanke, Angie Phenix, Kaarina Valavaara


Introduction: Understanding the experiences of occupational therapists with different cultural backgrounds is

critical if the profession is to become more diverse and inclusive. There is limited knowledge about the experiences

of Aboriginal peoples in becoming occupational therapists, and working in current practice environments.

Objectives: This project sought to: 1) explore the lived experiences of Aboriginal occupational therapists, and 2)

develop recommendations for the profession of occupational therapy at both the education and practice levels to

foster culturally safe environments for Aboriginal students, practitioners and clients. Methods: A qualitative design

incorporating a decolonizing approach was utilized. Participants were recruited from the Canadian Association of

Occupational Therapists, OT and Aboriginal Peoples Network group. Two Mtis women who had completed a

Master's program in occupational therapy agreed to participate. Participants were interviewed using a semi‐

structured format; interviews were audio‐recorded and transcribed verbatim. Three investigators used inductive

content analysis initially to code and then to develop categories and sub‐categories. Consultation with a Mtis

student peer and use of a dynamic member‐checking process throughout the analysis enhanced trustworthiness.

Results: Two main categories emerged during analysis: environment (including those that foster and hinder

cultural safety) and "being the other" (including the emotions and actions that embody this position). Participants

also offered recommendations to create more culturally safe environments in education and practice settings.

Conclusion: There is a need for the occupational therapy profession to continue the process of creating culturally

safe environments not only for Aboriginal clients, but also for Aboriginal students and colleagues.

F43 Intersectionality: Rising to the Challenge of Occupational Injustices


Alison Gerlach (University of British Columbia, Vancouver) [email protected]


Introduction: Occupational injustice, whereby people are prevented from participating in occupations or have

occupations imposed on them, is more prevalent in certain population groups as a result of how our society is

structured. This requires that we attend to how people's occupations and occupational 'choices' are situated

within, and shaped by, broader socio‐economic, historical, and political structures that are beyond their individual

control and immediate environment. Understanding the intersecting and structural nature of occupational

injustices is the starting point for informing socially responsive action. Objectives: Participants will increase their

understanding of: (1) occupational injustice from an intersectionality perspective, and (2) how intersectionality can

strengthen our theorizing and action in relation to occupational injustices. Approach: The author will draw on her

experiences of integrating intersectionality in her theorizing on occupational injustices in the context of Indigenous

families and children. This will include how she utilized intersectionality in her doctoral research, and how it

continues to shape her thinking in relation to occupational injustices. Practice implications: Intersectionality has

the potential to: (1) generate more nuanced, complex, highly contextualized and historicized understandings of


people's lived experiences of occupational injustices, and (2) inform more socially‐responsive forms of

occupational therapy intervention and research. Conclusions: Rising to the challenge of occupational injustices

requires occupational therapists to embrace critically oriented and intersectional theorizing. Intersectionality has

the potential to inform more socially responsive forms of intervention that are tailored to the complex realities of

peoples' lives, their agency and resistance, and underlying historical, socio‐economic and political determinants.

F44 The Flipped Classroom – Teaching the Next Generation of Occupational Therapists


Andrea Duncan (University of Toronto) [email protected]


Introduction: The Flipped Classroom (FC) is one in which students view on‐line lectures on their own time at home

and then the professor uses classroom time for interactive integration of the materials. FCs are gaining popularity

in all education circles. Objectives: In this presentation, this author will review literature and best practices on use

of FC in graduate programs and share the experiences of implementing a FC in an MScOT program. Methods: A FC

approach was used to teach an MScOT Professional Practice course. Weekly feedback, course evaluations and

student performance was used to evaluate the impact on student learning. Results: The FC started in high school

environments; however recent literature shows an increase in their use in university programs. In this population,

FCs have shown to increase students' active participation in their own learning, develop skills for critical thinking

and has higher levels of student feedback. This author implemented the use of a FC approach and found a 3%

increase in class average. Course evaluations showed a 15% increase in students' satisfaction. Subjective

comments reflected that students felt more passionate about the material and that the professor was in tune with

their learning needs. Conclusions: FCs are a new and highly effective method for educating Occupational Therapy

students. Further discussion and review of these techniques for training tomorrow's OTs is required.

F45 The importance of occupational therapist involvement in public transportation


Teresa Platt, Karley Van Den Bussche, Melanie Yusim, Patricia Lausman, (City of Winnipeg, Winnipeg Transit,

Winnipeg) [email protected]

Extended discussion : Community, Non‐specific to Client Group

Introduction: The ability to participate in community‐based occupations is often dependent on one's

transportation options. Public transportation is one of the most universal, accessible, and usable system available

to individuals in urban settings. The role of occupational therapists (OTs) in transportation is vital and innovative;

however, OTs could have a more advanced role in the health promotion and safety benefits involved in this

growing area of practice. Objectives: The purpose of this extended discussion is to inform OTs about areas of

involvement in public transportation, describe best practices, and explore transportation‐specific challenges.

Approach: The speakers will share their background and experiences as OTs employed by a Canadian public

transportation organization. Following the presentation, delegates will be guided in a process of generating

transportation concerns arising from their professional practice. These concerns will be used as a platform for

engaging in group discussion and problem‐solving. Practice implications: By participating in this session, delegates

will learn to take a health promotion approach to educate their clients on accessible transportation options and to

take on an advocacy role at both individual and systemic levels. Delegates will gain a better understanding of

accessible public transportation and the resources available to facilitate safe and independent community access

for their clients. Conclusion: OTs play a significant role in enabling independence on both para transit and regular

transit. As transportation is foundational to occupational involvement in the community, it is important that OTs

are aware of the spectrum of public transportation and are equipped with strategies for facilitating client access to

transportation.

F46 CarFit: An opportunity to support older drivers in Canada!



Tamalea Stone, Phillip Wendt, Nicolas McCarthy, Julie Lapointe [email protected]

Sponsored Session

Introduction: CarFit is a free community‐based program designed for any driver, but especially for older adults, to

learn the various car adjustments that can be made to improve safety and driving ability (www.car‐fit.org). It also

provides drivers with information and materials on community‐specific resources that could enhance their safety

and/or increase their mobility in the community. Objectives: This session will present the experience of two

occupational therapists that were among the first Canadian CarFit event coordinators in organizing and holding

CarFit events in their communities. CAOT will present the multiple resources and training opportunities to support

this unique opportunity to contribute to older drivers’ safety. Discussion: The CarFit program is a standardized

education conversation that revolves around a 12‐point checklist that is administered in less than 30 minutes. As

experts in helping people engage in their meaningful occupations, occupational therapists have a unique

contribution to CarFit events. Their role consists of addressing specific concerns regarding positioning, basic

devices and community resources in order to optimize on‐road safety (Belagamage et al., 2014). Conclusions:

Occupational therapists have a holistic and in‐depth understanding of the interplay between a person, its

environment and occupation (Townsend & Polatajko, 2013) and this is an invaluable asset to contribute to the

types of discussion occurring in a CarFit event.

F47 Occupation and the Transition from Homelessness to Becoming Housed




Introduction: Few studies have investigated the transition from chronic homelessness to becoming housed. Of the

literature that does exist, there are even fewer studies that focus on occupational transition from homelessness.

Objectives: To present a study that has addressed the research question: “What is the experience of occupational

transition from homelessness to becoming housed?” Methods: n=13 participants with the lived experiences of

chronic homelessness were engaged in semi‐structured interviews using a phenomenological approach. Analysis

involved a procedure suggested by Moustakas (1994). Results: Several themes arose from this research suggest

that an occupational perspective is essential to facilitating a successful transition to permanent housing in persons

with a history of chronic homelessness. These include the importance of developing roles and responsibiliites in

the community, and building new relationships based on occupation. Conclusions: Occupational therapists may

play a unique and important role in assisting persons experiencing chronic homelessness transition to permanent

housing through their unique occupational lens. Developing further research to explore occupation and its

relationship with homelessness and the transition to permanent housing is needed to further inform practice.

F48 Successes and challenges of community reintegration post‐stroke


Heather Lambert (McGill University, Montreal) [email protected] Melissa Auguste, Karla Jacobsen,

Wenhang Yu, Franceen Kaizer


Introduction: Factors that facilitate or complicate community reintegration should be considered when planning or

evaluating stroke rehabilitation programs. Objective: To examine the extent to which individuals who have had a

stroke experience community reintegration post‐discharge from a stroke rehabilitation program. Aspects of the

program and of the individual that facilitated or limited reintegration were identified. Methods: A cross‐sectional

telephone survey was conducted using the Return to Normal Living Index (RNLI) as a guide. Qualitative data was

analyzed using interpretive description methods. Participants were individuals who had a stroke resulting in

admission to a rehabilitation centre in a major Canadian city, discharged between December 2013 and August

2014, and who could respond to a telephone interview in English or French. Results: Six out of seven participants

scored 27/33 on the RNLI. Three people reported difficulties in community mobility and recreation. Facilitators to


reintegration were quality of therapy, attitude of therapists, favorable therapist‐client relationship, and

participants' readiness to return home. Barriers included short length of therapy sessions and lack of referral to

community services post‐discharge. Participants' reintegration was affected by personal, social and environmental

factors such as connection with others; presence of a meaningful life; and personal ability to turn over a new leaf.

Conclusion: The majority of participants were well reintegrated post‐discharge. The study provided insight

regarding crucial factors contributing to reintegration both within and outside the program. Inclusion of these

factors in rehabilitation programs may minimize barriers of community reintegration for individuals post stroke.

F49 Navigating intimate relationships for female survivors with acquired brain injury


Peraveena Balachandran [email protected] Madiha Saleem, Emily Nalder, Caron Gan, Angela

Colantonio, Katherine Wilson, Michelle Keightley, Catherine Wiseman‐Hakes

Poster defense : Institution, Child/Adolescent Psychosocial Health

Introduction. Acquired brain injury (ABI) during adolescence or young adulthood can affect the ability to develop

and maintain intimate relationships during this critical time of development, which may increase risk of social

isolation, vulnerability to sexual and emotional abuse and significantly impact quality of life. Current evidence is

focused predominantly on older adults and male survivors, leaving relationship experiences of female adolescents

and young adults with ABI largely unexplored. Objectives. The objective of this proposed study is to explore the

lived experiences of adolescent girls and young women with mild to severe ABI as well as their parents or

caregivers as the young females navigate intimate relationships. Approach. Interpretive phenomenology will be

used to discover the meaning of lived experiences from the perspectives of young females with ABI and their

parents or caregivers. Data will be collected through focus groups of 5 to 6 participants and their

parents/caregivers using a convenience sampling method. Thematic analysis of first‐person accounts will be

conducted. Practice Implications. Information collected from this proposed study can better inform adolescence to

adulthood transitional supports and services and specific training for healthcare professionals in meeting this

population's unique needs in developing intimate relationships. Conclusions. Forming intimate relationships is a

meaningful and enriching occupation; however, challenges faced by adolescent girls and young women may often

be overlooked. Findings from the proposed study will potentially identify the unique age and gender‐specific needs

of young women in forming intimate relationships and inform the development of much needed interventions and

support programs.

F50 Accessing health and social services in the preferred official language / Accès aux services sociaux

et de santé dans la langue officielle de son choix


Jacinthe Savard (Université d'Ottawa, Ottawa) [email protected] Lynn Casimiro, Josée Benoit, Pier Bouchard,

Claire‐Jehanne Dubouloz

Présentation par affiche : Administration Politique de santé, Pas de clientèle spécifique

Introduction: Bouchard et al. suggested that being part of a an official language minority group is a social

determinant of health in Canada (Bouchard, Beaulieu and Desmeules, 2012). It may be difficult to speak about

one’s health in a language other than one’s mother tongue. In francophone communities in minority situation

(FCMS), many barriers can limit access to French services even when French resources exist. Goal : Increase

Occupational Therapists’ awareness of the communication challenges for a Francophone in a minority situation,

during interaction with a healthcare professional. Methods: An extensive literature review, as well as focus groups

with bilingual healthcare professionals and interviews with francophone clients in FCMS has led to key messages

for improved communication in healthcare. Results : Three key messages to disseminate are: 1) A Francophone in

a minority situation may often hesitate to ask for services in French. Active offer of French services, defined as an

invitation to communicate in the official language of choice, is important. 2) Even if trained in French, healthcare


professionals are generally not well equipped to demonstrate this active offer in anglo‐dominant settings. 3)

Organisational and colleague support is key to active offer of French services by bilingual professionals. Conclusion:

Client‐centered services will evolve from an increased awareness to linguistic specificities and needs of the clients.

Introduction: Bouchard et coll. ont démontré que l'appartenance à un groupe linguistique minoritaire fait partie

des déterminants sociaux de la santé au Canada (Bouchard, Beaulieu et Desmeules, 2012). Il peut être difficile de

parler de sa santé dans une langue partiellement maitrisée. Dans les communautés francophones en situation

minoritaire (CFSM), même lorsque des ressources en français pourraient être disponibles, plusieurs barrières en

limitent l'accès. Objectif: Sensibiliser les ergothérapeutes aux défis de communication des francophones en

situation minoritaire, lors de l’interaction avec les professionnels de la santé. Méthodes: Une recension des écrits,

ainsi que des groupes de discussion avec des professionnels de la santé bilingues et des entrevues avec des clients

francophones des CFSM ont permis de faire ressortir des messages clés pour l’amélioration de la communication

en santé. Résultats : Trois messages clés à disséminer sont: 1) Un francophone en situation linguistique minoritaire

hésite souvent à demander des services en français. L'offre active de services en français, qui consiste en une

invitation claire à s'exprimer dans la langue officielle de son choix, est importante. 2) Même formés en français, les

professionnels sont souvent peu outillés à faire cette offre active dans des milieux anglo‐dominants. 3) Le soutien

des collègues et des gestionnaires, ainsi que l'organisation des services, sont des éléments importants pour

faciliter l'offre active de services en français par le personnel bilingue. Conclusion: Des services centrés sur le client

passent par une meilleure sensibilisation de tous aux besoins et aux particularités linguistiques des clients.

F51 Guiding the discovery of two‐wheeled cycling skills


Janine Halayko (University of Alberta, Edmonton) [email protected] Joyce Magill‐Evans, Veronica Smith, Helene

Polatajko


Introduction: Learning to ride a bicycle can be a significant milestone in the life of a child. Children with disabilities

frequently struggle with mastering this skill, limiting their participation in this important childhood leisure activity.

Objectives: Cognitive Orientation to Occupational Performance (CO‐OP) has been used to teach motor skills to

children with average cognition, but has not yet been studied with children with intellectual disabilities. Methods:

A multiple baseline single case design with pre‐post measures was implemented to test the applicability of the CO‐

OP approach for enabling children with intellectual abilities to ride a bike. Primary outcome measures were

distance and time cycled, and secondary measures were cycling skills mastered and performance and satisfaction

measures (by parent report) using the Canadian Occupational Performance Measure. Seven youth with a

moderate intellectual disability (IQ 40‐53) aged 10‐19 and unable to ride a two‐wheeler were included.

Intervention consisted of up to eight sessions provided over a range of 27 to 44 days (M= 35). Results: Following

intervention, six of the participants rode more than 100 meters (range 103m‐1756m) and demonstrated

improvements in all biking skills and measures of parent satisfaction. The seventh child did not learn to ride.

Conclusions: The positive results across measures and participants are higher than is typically reported in cycling

literature. Results suggest CO‐OP is effective for teaching two‐wheeled cycling to children with intellectual

disabilities and are helpful in determining best practice for teaching cycling to children with disabilities and

expanding the populations for whom CO‐OP may be beneficial.

F52 Occupational justice for persons living with obesity


Mary Forhan (University of Alberta, Edmonton) [email protected]

Extended discussion : Community, Adult General

Introduction: Severe obesity, defined by a body mass index of 40kg/m2 more, is the fastest growing class of

obesity with prevalence rates expected to reach 10% of the Canadian population by 2020. Severe obesity is

associated with an increased risk of experiencing disability including restricted participation in work, health care

and recreation. Significant sources of disability are barriers in the built environment and negative attitudes toward


persons with obesity by health care providers, employers and the general public. Objective: The purpose of this

study was to gain a better understanding of what it is like to live with severe obesity in the context of everyday

living. Methods: Using participatory action methods and ethnographic analysis this study explored the lived

experience of three individuals living with severe obesity in the context of participation in everyday occupations in

their communities. Results: The primary theme that emerged was the misfit between the built environment and

the obese body and the stigmatization of persons with obesity described by individuals living with obesity. The

results of this study were collated into a professionally produced documentary that has received award

nominations and international screenings. Conclusions: Participants of this extended session will watch the 23‐

minute documentary followed by discussion focused on implications for occupational therapy practice aimed to

enable participation for persons living with severe obesity. The discussion will be facilitated by an occupational

therapist with an aim to identify opportunities for occupational therapy practice.

F53 ACOTUP Sponsored Session ‐ Driving Occupational Justice across Canada: Occupational Therapy

Education and Human Rights


Clare Hocking and Elizabeth Townsend taryn@acotup‐acpue.ca

Sponsored Session

Introduction: Addressing the right to health and well‐being of all people requires collaboration by university and

fieldwork educators, students, and community partners. Objectives: This 1‐hour ACOTUP Forum will instigate the

sharing of educational theories, competency statements, learning outcomes, and reference materials, to use in the

classroom/ community projects, and with students on fieldwork in Canada with First Nations and Newcomers to

Canada, and in international contexts. Occupational therapy educators, preceptors, students and community

participants will: 1. Briefly define key points about the everyday concerns for injustice, deprivation, ecological

degradation and more expressed in the concept of “occupational justice’; 2. Map ‘drivers’ calling attention to

occupational injustice in Canada; 3. Discuss and share educational theories, competency statements, learning

outcomes, and reference materials. Approach: Brief presentations, interactive exercises and structured

discussions. Practice Implications: Participants will take away questions and action ideas to engage students and

colleagues for addressing: What obligations are driving concerns for occupational justice across Canada? What

strategies would position occupational therapy education to produce graduates who enact principles of respect,

tolerance, and recognition (UNESCO, 2011) in addressing human rights and occupational injustice? Conclusions:

The Forum is a timely opportunity for conversations and strategic thinking to transform occupational therapy

education in Canada to attend to occupational justice as a matter of human rights.

F54 Advancing an Occupational Perspective in Health Promotion: The Do‐Live‐Well Project


Sandra Moll, Lori Letts, Rebecca Gewurtz, Nadine Lariviere, Terry Krupa, Melanie Levasseur [email protected]

Sponsored Session : Community, Non‐specific to Client Group

Health promotion principles align with the values of occupational therapy and are gaining increased attention as a

key component of occupational therapy practice (Tucker et al., 2014). Furthermore, our perspective as

occupational therapists can bring a unique and valuable contribution to the field of health promotion (Moll et al.,

2013). The “Do‐Live‐Well” project is an initiative designed to articulate the unique perspective of occupational

therapists regarding the links between what people do every day and their health and well‐being (Moll et al.,

2014). It includes an evidence‐based framework linking eight key dimensions of occupational engagement, five

characteristics of activity patterns and personal and social forces that shape both engagement and health and well‐

being outcomes. It also provides an opportunity for establishing our role and building our credibility in the broader

field of health promotion.

This session will explore opportunities for occupational therapists to apply principles outlined in the Do‐Live‐Well

framework to promote the health and well‐being of clients and communities. Findings from a CIHR planning


project will be presented, including feedback and recommendations from 18 invited stakeholders from the healthy

aging community, including national and provincial policy‐makers, researchers, advocacy and service organizations.

In order to illustrate how the framework could be translated into practice, findings will be presented from a

community partnership project; piloting health promotion workshops in Ontario seniors’ centres. In addition, a

new Do‐Live‐Well online portal will be presented for feedback and discussion regarding application with a range of

populations.

F55 Contact‐based education as a stigma reduction strategy for occupational therapy


Shu‐Ping Chen (Queen's University, Kingston) [email protected] Terry Krupa, Heather Stuart

Paper presentations : Education, Child/Adolescent Psychosocial Health

Introduction. Youth living with mental illness can experience high levels of stigma that impact their overall well‐

being, their sense of inclusion and their occupational performance. Contact with people with lived experience of

mental illness has been shown to be a promising strategy to address stigma among young people in the high

school context. Objectives. This study, conducted under the auspices of Opening Minds, Mental Health

Commission of Canada, focused on young Canadians as an important population for anti‐stigma efforts. The

initiative evaluated eighteen anti‐stigma programs across Canada that target high school students. The purpose

was to identify the critical ingredients of contact‐based interventions. Methods. Three steps were implemented.

The first step involved collecting program information through twenty in‐depth interviews with key stakeholders

and field observation of seven anti‐stigma programs offered in Canadian high schools. The second step involved

constructing critical ingredients based on the program information and grouping the ingredients into domains for

conceptual clarity and component modeling. The third step involved validating the findings by stakeholders

reviewing and verifying the ingredients. Results. A program logic model, including four input components (team

building, partnerships with schools, preparation, coordination), six process components (program deliverers,

contents, pedagogy, materials, place, time), and four levels of outcomes (reaction, knowledge, individual

behaviours, social changes), was developed. Conclusions. This study provided an understanding of the effective

ingredients of contact‐based, youth anti‐stigma education. This new perspective enables occupational therapists to

target interventions at the environmental level and society at large.

F56 Chaos and Coherence: Raising a Child with Autism during Adolescence


Meghan Harris (University of Alberta, Edmonton) [email protected] Shanon Phelan, David McConnell


Introduction: To date, few studies have explored the everyday life experience of parents raising adolescent

children with ASD, including the challenges and rewards, or the actions taken to 'keep their family life running'.

Objectives: Utilizing the constructs of chaos and coherence, the purpose of this study was to develop a better

understanding of how families with a child in early adolescence with ASD make sense of their experience and

manage their everyday family routines. Methods: Secondary qualitative analysis (Heaton, 2008; Sandelowski,

2000) of caregiver interviews gathered from a larger study was utilized to guide a process of thematic, descriptive

coding (Creswell, 2007; Rubin b) We manage because we have to; c) Working together and being prepared; d)

Celebrating and redefining success; and e) Uncertain futures. Conclusions: Families struggle with managing

challenging behaviours, navigating the service system, and looking towards the future. However, they continue to

find meaning in their lived experiences, and over time are able to develop strategies to maintain some sort of daily

routine. These findings inform occupational therapy interventions and service provision when working with

families who have an early adolescent with ASD. Practice implications pertaining to the role of occupational

therapists in family centered care and identifying barriers and facilitators to meaningful participation in daily

occupations by family members will be discussed.


F57 Occupational Therapy and Human Rights: Expanding Horizons


Seiko Watanabe (North Star Community Therapy, Prince George) [email protected]


Introduction: Occupational Therapy's principles include "diversity competency" as a key component as the

profession aspires to promote human well‐being through "enabling" occupation. In an increasingly diverse world

with widening inequalities in wealth‐distribution, the profession recognizes that people's health and well‐being are

impacted by socio‐economic inequalities resulting, for example, from societal injustices, migration, conflicts and

systemic violence. If the profession aspires to achieve occupational justice, occupational therapists need to equip

themselves with knowledge and understanding of basic rights as outlined, for example, in the UN Convention on

Human Rights. Objectives: This paper will: 1) present an understanding of occupational justice derived from

practice in a context of human rights violations, 3) identify some of the challenges to conventional occupational

therapy practice in relation to occupational justice, 3) propose unconventional tools in adapting to and embracing

these challenges. Approach: Drawing from the author's experience working with marginalized, disadvantaged

populations in a non‐conventional, socio‐economically‐disadvantaged rural setting, this paper highlights some of

the root causes of occupational injustice, connects these injustices to fundamental and universal human rights,

and explores how these challenge conventional occupational therapy practices. Practice implications: Occupational

therapists who are equipped with a working knowledge of human rights that are relevant to occupational justice

will be able to further expand their role in advocating for the health and well‐being of people with diverse

backgrounds. Conclusion: If occupational therapy is to achieve its "enabling" goals in relation to occupational

justice, the profession must equip itself with a firm understanding of basic human rights.

F58 Increasing Social Participation: Designing a Virtual Reality Intervention for Autism


Stephanie Chauhan (University of British Columbia) [email protected] Chelsea Moir, Parisa Ghanouni, Tal Jarus


Rationale: Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) affects 1 in 68 children, resulting in deficits in communication, emotion

recognition, and social participation. Virtual reality (VR) games have the potential to be used as a therapeutic

rehabilitation medium for improving emotion recognition and social participation in children with ASD. Objectives:

This study aims to explore the perspectives of key stakeholders ‐ clinicians, parents of children with ASD, and youth

with ASD ‐ and incorporate these views in designing a VR intervention. The motion‐based game will focus on

improving social participation through building emotion recognition skills in children with ASD. Methods: Part I:

Multidisciplinary clinicians, parents of children with ASD, and youth with high functioning ASD (n=20) will

participate in three separate focus groups to discuss emotion recognition, social participation, and VR

interventions. A prototype of a motion‐based VR intervention for emotion recognition will then be developed

based on stakeholder input. Part II: Youth with ASD (n=3) will trial the prototype in order to provide feedback on

the intervention prior to testing with children with ASD. Practice Implications: We anticipate outcomes to be a

better understanding of emotion recognition, and its effects on social participation in children with ASD.

Specifically, how perspectives of key stakeholders can be implemented in designing a VR intervention for children

with ASD. Conclusions: This project contributes to OS/OT evidence and practice by including the perspectives of

stakeholders in designing an innovative intervention for children with ASD. VR potentially offers a motivational,

safe, and feasible intervention for ASD.

F58B Occupational therapy practice with a homeless population: A scoping review

Saturday 13:30‐14:00 Room/ Salle : Lombard Room

Laurence Roy (McGill University, Montreal) [email protected] Catherine Vallée



Rationale. Persons who are experiencing or at risk of homelessness have complex occupational needs that are

seldom addressed in the current system of care. Occupational therapists can address injustices experienced by this

under‐served population and enable homeless persons' full participation in occupations that are meaningful and

enriching; however, there is no consensus in the scientific literature about the position of occupational therapy

practice within the field of homelessness. Objectives. To describe documented occupational therapy practices with

the homeless population, to identify gaps in knowledge related to the practice and positioning of occupational

therapy with this population and to develop a research and practice agenda for addressing the identified gaps in

knowledge. Methods. We are currently conducting a scoping review informed by the framework articulated by

Levac et al. (2010). The stages of the scoping review approach include identifying the research question, identifying

relevant studies, study selection, charting the data, collapsing, summarizing and reporting results and consultation.

Results. Preliminary results indicate that the studies are articulated around three themes: (1) Occupational therapy

interventions for children and families experiencing homelessness, (2) Occupational therapy interventions for

building life skills and (3) Community‐built practices, including consumer involvement and advocacy. A practice and

research agenda to address gaps in knowledge will be examined. Conclusions. Occupational therapy practitioners

and researchers have the potential to address injustices experienced by persons who are homeless or at risk of

homelessness by offering an individualized, multilevel (individual, organization, community) response to the

complex and unmet occupational needs of this population.

F59 Parents’ Experiences with Plagiocephaly and Treatment Decisions


Ashley Koehn (University of British Columbia) [email protected] Heather Franz, Patricia Mortenson, Ben

Mortenson


Introduction: 'Back to sleep' is a successful campaign in the prevention of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome, but has

significantly altered the occupation of infant care giving. The practice is now associated with changes in infant

prone development and an increased prevalence of cranial asymmetry, known as deformational plagiocephaly

(DP) (Kennedy, Majnemer, Farmer, Barr & Platt, 2009). Demand for assessment and treatment of DP has arisen,

including a role for occupational therapists. Treatment includes developmental repositioning or orthotic

treatment, but current studies provide conflicting or limited evidence regarding intervention efficacy and long

term outcomes. In addition, little is known about the experience of caregivers through the diagnosis and treatment

decision making processes (Mortenson, Steinbok & Smith, 2012), limiting the ability of health care providers to

provide optimal support to families. Objectives: To explore the experiences of parents with children with

plagiocephaly and to understand how they make treatment decisions. Methods: Twelve parents of children with

plagiocephaly will be recruited. A one to two hour semi‐structured interview will be conducted with each

participant. Data will be analyzed thematically through a sequential process, which involves reading and re‐reading

interview transcripts, development of preliminary codes, creation and review of early themes, and selection of

final overarching themes (Braun and Clarke, 2006). Results: We anticipate the study will reveal how personal and

contextual factors affect parental experiences and influence treatment decisions. Conclusions: Insights from this

study will help health care professionals provide more appropriate counseling, treatment and support for these

children and their families.

F60 Visual Fields and Driver Fitness: Traffic Incidents Over One Year


Lisa Kristalovich (Providence HealthCare, Vancouver) [email protected] Ben Mortenson


Introduction Individuals with visual field impairments have been permitted to drive since a Supreme Court of

Canada decision granted the right to individual assessment. This typically includes a Comprehensive Driver

Evaluation completed by an occupational therapist (OT). Although some individuals pass these evaluations, there

are no long‐term studies of driving behaviours. Objectives The study will determine if drivers with visual field


impairment are more likely to have traffic accidents or violations than drivers without visual field impairments over

one year. Method In this retrospective study, subjects will be stratified into groups of no, mild or moderate/severe

visual field impairment based on ophthalmology visual field test results. Based on the licensing process, it is

presumed only the group with severe impairments will have completed a Comprehensive Driver Evaluation. The

number of traffic accidents and violations in each group will be compared to determine if there is a statistically

significant difference. Results Data collection is underway. There is anticipated to be a low number of traffic

incidents in all groups, and no difference between groups. This result would support continued use of the current

licensing process. Conclusion Driver licensing authorities have shifted from a diagnostic to a functional model. This

collaborative study between OT, ophthalmology and transportation authorities will provide evidence on whether

the current licensing process, which includes OT evaluations, is sufficiently rigorous over time. The study results

are expected to provide evidence supporting OTs who advocate with ophthalmologists to refer drivers with visual

field impairments for a Comprehensive Driver Evaluation.

F61 CAOT Provincial Chapter Update‐ CAOT‐BC


Giovanna Boniface [email protected]

Sponsored Session

The first provincial chapter of CAOT, CAOT‐BC began operations on October 1, 2011. Since the formation of this

integrated national and provincial model of professional representation, CAOT‐BC continues to grow in the areas

of membership and in activity in the areas of promotion, advocacy and representation.

This session will present highlights of the past year and respond to questions about the chapter model of

provincial‐national representation in British Columbia.

F62 Addressing discrimination against mental illness and HIV through contact‐based education


Sandra Moll (McMaster University, Hamilton) [email protected] Patty Solomon


Rationale: Mental illness and HIV are two of the most highly stigmatized conditions that students encounter in

their healthcare training and practice. Although the conditions are distinct, they are both episodic, often hidden

conditions associated with a high degree of stigma and inconsistent quality of care. Contact‐based education with

health mentors (individuals who have personal experience with a stigmatized condition) is a best‐practice

approach to address stigma and discrimination. Less is known, however, about how education should be provided

to optimize impact. Objectives: The purpose of this project was to develop, implement and evaluate an inter‐

professional contact‐based learning opportunity for healthcare students regarding mental illness and HIV.

Methods: Seven individuals with mental illness and/or HIV were trained as health mentors, and shared their

experience over a series of four sessions with 22 students from OT, PT, medicine, nursing and social work at an

Ontario university. Evaluation included pre/post session questionnaires and interviews/focus groups to evaluate

the perceived impact on knowledge, skills and attitudes. Results: Significant changes knowledge and beliefs were

reported, however, the impact varied depending upon characteristics of the mentor, engagement of students, and

nature of the "contact" opportunity itself. Establishing a safe environment for exchanging ideas, and a shared

commitment to the process were key elements of success. Conclusions: Contact‐based education can be a

powerful learning tool, but careful planning is needed to recruit and train educators, and to establish guidelines for

optimizing the contact experience.

F63 Evaluating the psychometric properties of the Activity Engagement Measure


Nicole Krasko (Queen's University, Kingston) [email protected] Alison Chik, Eden Lin, Farhana Zaman



Introduction: The Activity Engagement Measure (AEM) in the Action over Inertia intervention has been used with

persons with serious mental illness to attain a general overview of an individual's occupational balance and

engagement. Objective: This study aims to examine the psychometric properties of the AEM by evaluating the

reliability and validity of the measure. Methods: Twenty‐five individuals with serious mental illness and 25 adults

from the general population will complete the AEM. To test construct validity, scores between the two groups will

be examined to determine the relationship. The individuals with serious mental illness will also complete the

Satisfaction with Daily Occupations Scale (SDO) and Engagement in Meaningful Activity Scale (EMAS). Scores on

the AEM will be correlated with scores on the EMAS and SDO to test criterion validity. A panel of occupational

therapist experts in mental health will be asked to review the measure to test content validity. Test‐retest

reliability will be examined by administering the measure again to the individuals with serious mental illness two

weeks post. Practice Implications: The proposed study will determine if the AEM can discriminate between levels

of activity engagement in individuals with serious mental illness. Conclusions: Occupational therapists must

evaluate the efficacy of tools used within their practice. Results will ascertain if the AEM is a reliable and valid

measure of activity engagement that can be used confidently in practice for individuals with serious mental illness.

F64 Occupational Justice and Safety Huddles in Complex Care


Meridith McClenaghan [email protected] Richard Kellowan


Introduction: Falls reduction, skin integrity and responsive behaviour management are three safety indicators in

complex care. All three require extensive occupational therapy resources and may displace meaningful activities

within managed care; this can lead to occupational injustice for clients. Healthcare providers experience

occupational injustice when safety interventions increase workload and displace client‐centred care. Safety

Huddles are a daily, facility‐wide, interprofessional initiative led by Occupational Therapists (OTs) to provide a

forum for efficient design, implementation and evaluation of individualized intervention plans. Safety Huddles

facilitate occupational justice through a standardized approach that balances workload demands, safety and

occupational performance. Objectives: Describe Safety Huddles for falls reduction, skin integrity and behaviour

management. Share templates, resources and tools for implementing Safety Huddles. Provide preliminary, field

based research and clinical feedback on Safety Huddles in complex care. Approach: Qualitative surveys (n=23) and

two (2) semi‐structured focus groups examined the impact of Safety Huddles on occupational performance.

Retrospective chart reviews (n=9) reviewed outcomes for falls reduction and behavioural incidences. Practice

Implications: Safety Huddles enable occupational justice in complex care. OTs will gain take‐home resources and

clinical perspectives to adopt Safety Huddles. Conclusions: Safety Huddles have standardized the interprofessional

process for falls reduction, skin integrity and responsive behaviour management. Safety Huddles enable safety and

quality without displacing occupational performance in managed care.

F65 Exploration of the ecological validity of a virtual reality assessment


Ginette Aubin (Université du Québec à Trois‐Rivières, Trois‐Rivières) [email protected] Marie‐France Béliveau,

Elizabeth Klinger

Poster defense : Institution, Adult Psychosocial Health

Introduction : Assessment tools using virtual reality, such as the Virtual Action Planning‐Supermarket (VAP‐S) have

been used for the assessment of cognitive function in people with schizophrenia. Virtual reality tools reproduce

the context of daily living activities, and are expected to elicit the use of similar cognitive skills. However, little is

known about their ecological validity, or how well they approximate real life situations. Objectives: This

exploratory study aimed to examine aspects of the ecological validity of an assessment based on a virtual shopping

task, the Virtual Action Planning‐Supermarket (VAP‐S) when used with people with schizophrenia. Methods: Five

participants with schizophrenia, living in the community with experience in grocery shopping were recruited. Each

participant performed a shopping task with the VAP‐S and in a real supermarket unknown to the participants.


Performances in each environment were analysed using the Perceive, Recall, Plan and Perform system of task

analysis (PRPP). Sense of presence and signs of cybersickness were documented. Descriptive statistics were

calculated and qualitative analyses were performed in order to compare both performance. Results: Four

participants obtained similar scores on the PRPP for their performance in both environments. For two participants,

the virtual task took twice as long as the task in the natural environment. Two participants reported high levels of

cybersickness. Conclusion: Overall, participants' performance was generally similar in both contexts. Therefore,

preliminary results tend to support the ecological validity of the VAP‐S. More studies are needed on a larger scale

to further examine its ecological validity.

F66 Occupational Performance Coaching targeting teachers' perception, satisfaction and self‐efficacy


Caroline Hui (McGill University) [email protected] Laurie Snider, Ingrid Sladeczek, Mélanie Couture

Poster defense : Education, Adult Psychosocial Health

Rationale: The teaching burden associated with disruptive classroom behaviours are related to teacher stress,

dissatisfaction, decreased self‐efficacy which can negatively impact teachers' occupational role and performance.

Classroom management self‐efficacy is a teacher's belief in their ability to organize and execute the actions needed

to maintain order in the classroom. While occupational therapists have identified the classroom teacher as a key

collaborator to address students' occupational performance, there are no known studies which have focused on

the occupational performance needs of the teacher. Occupational Performance Coaching (OPC), an occupation and

client centred approach, has been shown to be successful in helping adults meet their occupational goals.

Objectives: To explore the impact of a one day training on self‐regulation and eight OPC sessions on teachers'

perceived performance and satisfaction in the management of students with disruptive behaviours and teachers'

classroom management self‐efficacy. Methods: This pilot study used a multiple case replication study design. A

cohort of regular classroom elementary school teachers (n=11) participated in a one day workshop (Tools to

Improve Attention and Self‐regulation for Students in the Classroom) followed by eight individual sessions of OPC.

Follow‐up assessment took place seven weeks post‐intervention. Outcome measures: Canadian Occupational

Performance Measure; Goal Attainment Scaling (GAS); Teachers' Self‐Efficacy Scale‐Classroom Management.

Results of pilot study: Teachers' perception of performance (82%), satisfaction (91%) and classroom management

(73%) improved. GAS showed clinically significant results (82%). Results were sustained at 7 weeks follow‐up.

Conclusion: Preliminary results for OPC as a school‐based OT intervention for teachers' occupational performance

are promising.

F67 Talking about ‘Inclusion’ with youth who have severe communication impairments


Gail Teachman (University of Toronto, Toronto) [email protected]

Paper presentations : Theory, Child/Adolescent Physical Health

Introduction: Inclusion is often taken for granted as a 'good' thing; yet, research has shown that some types of

inclusion can unintentionally contribute to marginalization. Inclusion‐focused policies and interventions have

seldom been informed by perspectives from youth with disabilities. Although described as experiencing high levels

of exclusion, almost no research has been done with youth who use augmentative and alternative communication

(AAC). Objectives: A critical qualitative study design was used to describe the daily occupations, social networks,

personal geographies and material environments of youth who use AAC, and interpret ways that dominant

inclusion discourses were taken up and manifested through their talk and practices. Methods: Multiple, adapted

methods (interviews, photo‐elicitation, observations, and 'Belonging Circles') were combined to generate in‐depth

data with 13 Canadian youth who used AAC (aged 15 ‐ 24). Critical social theory perspectives oriented the

analyses. Results: Youth struggled for recognition in mainstream spaces where they were physically included but

socially marked as invisible, or even inhuman. Youth countered by strategically emphasizing their positive traits,

minimizing their bodily differences and asserting their worth by showing how they were "the same on the inside".

Together with their families, they reformulated notions of family, friends and community to create positive spaces


of inclusion on their own terms. The study analysis complicates tacit understandings of inclusion as a universal

good and instead, considers how the struggle for mainstream inclusion might reproduce social inequities.

Conclusion: The results support practice guided by more nuanced relational conceptualizations of inclusion

informed by youth with disabilities.

F68 Collaboratively Moving Knowledge into Practice


Fatima Quraishi (University Health Network, Toronto) [email protected] Vicky Cheung, Shelley Sharp, Gail

Avinoam

Extended discussion : Institution, Adult General

Introduction: The Canadian Best Recommendations (CBPR) for Stroke Care provides a standardized framework of

evidence‐based recommendations for health care professionals. Although evidence‐based practices in stroke care

have been well established, significant gaps in knowledge translation1 and variations in practice continue to exist

across Canada1. Inspired by the theme of the 2012‐2013 CBPR of "Take Action" and with the need for profession‐

specific best practice summaries1 identified by the Canadian Stroke Strategy, Occupational Therapists (OTs) across

dedicated stroke centers have been collaborating to meet this need. Objectives: Participants will become familiar

with CBPR specifically related to OTs in acute stroke care. They will obtain Interprofessional tools developed by

dedicated stroke hospitals to facilitate easy access and implementation of best practices. Practical tips on

implementation will be shared. Methods: The session will begin with a presentation on the rationale and

development of these tools. A large group discussion will be facilitated on the role of OT in acute care as related to

stroke best practice and current practice. Small group case studies will be provided to apply and implement the

tools shared. Practice Implications: Having access to these tools will allow OTs working in acute stroke care to

decrease the gap in practice variation, facilitate best practice implementation and enhance interprofessional

collaboration. Conclusion: CBPR for stroke care are well established, however practical discipline specific tools are

lacking which are imperative for knowledge translation. Having access to these resources can facilitate

implementation of best practices and enhance standardization amongst Occupational therapists in stroke care.

F69 COTFSponsored Session: The Karen Goldenberg Leadership Impact in Research Grant & Economic

Evaluation of Occupational Therapy


Karen Goldenberg [email protected]

Sponsored Session

COTF will launch The Karen Goldenberg Leadership Impact in Research Grant (with the economic evaluation of

occupational therapy) in 2016. This grant is established to honour Karen Goldenberg, one of COTF’s founding

members and a recipient in 2014 of the Order of Canada. This grant will be open only to clinicians; its purpose is to

meet clinicians’ need for research on issues directly related to their practice. The importance of leadership will be

a major focus of the grant which must also contain a plan for an analysis of the economic impact of the proposed

research. Economic analysis of occupational therapy interventions is critical to determining the best outcome for

clients, systems of care, and society at large. In this session, you will learn the importance of leadership in research

and how economic evaluation can be built into a grant proposal. This session is geared to clinicians who are

interested in research, who have a practice question that they want to investigate, or who are planning to apply

for this new grant.

F70 Advance your skills in promoting your profession and planning your communication and advocacy

actions


Chelsea S. Gordon, Nicolas McCarthy [email protected]

Sponsored Session : Education, Non‐specific to Client Group


This interactive and thought provoking session will first allow participants to define and practice their personal

twist in explaining occupational therapy in a nut shell, easily and with impact. Through a case scenario, the second

phase of this session will teach participant on how to build a communication plan intended to achieve efficient

communication and advocacy actions. Drawing on the Canadian Model of Client‐Centered Enablement (CMCE)

from Enabling Occupation II (Townsend & Polatajko, 2013), the enablement taxonomy and its meaning will be

reviewed and exemplified. Participants will gain advanced knowledge on how these ten action terms (i.e. adapt,

advocate, coach, collaborate, consult, coordinate, design/build, educate, engage and specialize) can propel their

messages and actions and be the foundation of their exemplar planning of advocacy actions to promote the

profession and engagement in meaningful occupations.

F71 Occupational Therapy and Human Immunodeficiency Virus: Meeting Unmet Needs


Laura Peters (McMaster University) [email protected] Leah Ferreira, Samantha Langan, Ellyse

Shacklady, Heather Vrbanac, Rabeya Sharmin, Patty Solomon, Lorie Shimmell


Introduction: Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) is an episodic disability, impacting all aspects of an individual’s

life (O'Brien, Bayoumi, Strike, Young, & Davis, 2008). Occupational therapists can play an integral role in supporting

persons with HIV to overcome personal and societal barriers to engage in meaningful occupation. To explore the

role of occupational therapy in AIDS Service Organizations, a collaboration between a Canadian university and four

Ontario AIDS Service Organizations was made. Objectives: (a) To share the experiences of students within a role‐

emerging placement in AIDS Service Organizations, and (b) To increase awareness of the role of occupational

therapy within AIDS Service Organizations. Approach: Five students participated in an eight week role‐emerging

placement across AIDS Service Organizations in Ontario, in which they were supervised by registered clinicians.

Practice Implications: The roles of students varied based on the needs of the organization and their clients.

Common roles that students fulfilled included: providing education about and advocating for the role of

occupational therapy to clients and staff, providing consultation to staff regarding individual clients and programs,

providing direct client services, facilitating groups, and conducting staff workshops. Recommendations for the

expansion of occupational therapy in AIDS Service Organizations were provided which included support for clients

with return to work and self‐management of chronic conditions. Conclusions: Persons living with HIV experience

unique challenges at personal and societal levels. The experiences of five students emphasizes the valuable role

that occupational therapists can play to support persons living with HIV to engage in meaningful occupations.

F72 Identifying Social Isolation and Strengthening Social Connections in Aging Populations


Carri Hand (Western University, London) [email protected] Jessica Retrum, Deborah Main, George Ware, Patti

Iwasaki

Poster defense : Community, Older Adult Psychosocial Health

Introduction: Older adults are at risk of social isolation and decreased social participation, particularly if they

experience challenges such as poor health or poverty. Social isolation in turn is a risk factor for declining health and

admission to long term care. Identifying socially isolated older people is a challenging and necessary first step in

developing programs and services to meet their needs. Objectives: To pilot test a community‐based method of

identifying socially isolated older adults. Methods: We conducted door‐to‐door surveys in five neighbourhoods in

Denver, Colorado with adults aged 50 years or more, in English or Spanish. Questions addressed health status,

chronic health conditions, social connections and participation, social cohesion of neighborhood, and demographic

information. Results: The 161 participants were 62% female, with 64% reporting an annual household income

under $35,000(USD). Twenty‐five percent of participants experienced high isolation according to the Lubben Social

Network Scale, 29% reported feeling isolated, 17% reported no close friends to call on for help, and 43% indicated

wanting to be doing more social activities. Conclusions: The study results are similar to those found in national

population surveys and suggest that door‐to‐door surveys are one effective method of identifying socially isolated


older adults. Modifications to this method may increase efficiency, such as using mailed communication prior to

phone or in‐person contact and targeting areas that contain risk factors for isolation, such as low income and low

neighbourhood social cohesion. Occupational therapists can use this information to reach socially isolated older

adults and develop innovative community services.

F73 “Time” lasts forever: Criminal record limits community participation


Cathy White (Dalhousie University, Halifax) [email protected] Barbara Hamilton‐Hinch


Introduction: People with mental illness often experience social exclusion, and struggle to find meaningful roles in

the community. Those with a criminal record are even more marginalized. Objectives: This purpose of this research

was to gain "first voice" perspectives (from those living with mental illness) on the challenges and opportunities to

accessing meaningful social/leisure/recreational/volunteer activities within their communities. Methods: Focus

groups, followed by individual interviews with some participants, were used. Open‐ended questions with prompts

were used to enquire about what participants consider to be meaningful community participation, welcoming and

non‐welcoming environments, and facilitators and barriers to increasing social/leisure/recreational/volunteer

participation in the community. Results: While the research uncovered a range of challenges and opportunities,

this presentation focuses specifically on the barriers created by having a criminal record. Participants shared that

although they had "paid their debt to society" by serving the time, the criminal record stayed with them forever,

limiting their ability not only to secure employment, but to be welcomed as a volunteer in many settings. This

rejection limited their ability to regain self‐esteem, and blocked them from other benefits commonly afforded by

such roles. Conclusions: Occupational therapists must be aware of such barriers in the institutional environment if

they are to enable occupational justice within the community.

F74 The Occupational Lives of Women Who Have Experienced Childhood Trauma


Yael Rozenblit [email protected] Janine Haq, Anne Fourt, Jane Davis


Introduction. Over the past decade, increased prevalence of posttraumatic stress disorder has focused attention

on the consequences of trauma on the daily lives of individuals who have experienced trauma. Approximately one

in eight children before the age of 18 will experience a catastrophic event that may develop into posttraumatic

stress disorder with consequences often felt into adulthood. Women who have experienced childhood trauma

often live with adverse psychological and occupational consequences, such as severe depression and poor

educational and employment outcomes, respectively. Although some evidence indicates that childhood trauma

can lead to decreases in productive occupations for women, no study has explored the broader occupational lives

of women who have experienced childhood trauma. Objective. This study will describe the occupational roles and

experiences discussed by women who have experienced childhood trauma. Methods. This descriptive qualitative

study will use narrative data from intake interviews of 50 women who have completed a program for women who

have experienced childhood trauma located in a large urban hospital. Narrative data will be analyzed using

directed content analysis. Results. Preliminary analysis indicates challenges for these women in engagement in

education, employment, socialization, and parenting. These challenges are expected to shape these women's

occupational roles and trajectories. Conclusion. Women who have experienced childhood trauma face many

occupational challenges during their lives as they attempt to manage the effects of trauma. The findings of this

study will not only inform trauma‐specific programming for these women, but also trauma‐informed care for

occupational therapists working within diverse practice contexts.

F75 The Instrumental Activity of Daily Living Profile: Uncued scoring method



Vanessa Pereira [email protected] Stephanie Britto, Emily Nalder, Carolina Bottari, Deirdre Dawson


Rationale: The Instrumental Activity of Daily Living (IADL) Profile is a performance‐based measure designed to

assess the impact of executive function impairments on IADL independence in people with brain injury. While the

current cued administration allows for individuals to be scored based on the level of assistance required to

complete the task, an uncued administration would allow for naturalistic observation of executive functioning skills

and therefore provide a more accurate representation of their independence. Objectives: (1) To develop a scoring

method for uncued performance in two tasks of the IADL profile (i.e., obtaining information and making a budget

tasks); (2) To evaluate the internal consistency, inter‐rater reliability and discriminability of the developed scoring

method. Methods: A scoring method to evaluate uncued IADL performance will be developed based on the

original scoring system and previously collected video data of adults with brain injury (n=10) and matched healthy

controls (n=10). Internal consistency, inter‐rater reliability and discriminability of the scoring method will be

evaluated using a weighted kappa coefficient, Cronbach's alpha coefficient, and two‐tailed t‐tests, respectively.

Practice Implications: The uncued IADL Profile can inform treatment plans and allow researchers and clinicians to

administer the assessment without specialized training, as well as evaluate intervention outcomes with reduced

learning effects. The findings will provide data to support the use of the uncued IADL Profile in evidence‐based

practice. Conclusion: The uncued IADL Profile may be useful for researchers and clinicians to better measure IADL

independence for adults with executive dysfunction.

F76 Thickened Liquids to Manage Dysphagia in Infants: A Pilot Survey


Stephanie Dion [email protected] Susan Harris, St.Pierre Astrid, Duivestein Janice

Paper presentations : Education, Child/Adolescent Physical Health

Introduction: Improved survival rates of sick or preterm infants have resulted in an increase of observed feeding

difficulties. One common method for managing feeding difficulties in infants is to manipulate liquid viscosity by

adding thickening agents to formula or expressed breast milk. Concerns regarding the lack of clinical practice

guidelines for the use of this strategy have been raised in the literature and in clinical settings for several years.

Objectives: This study aimed to survey feeding clinicians working in major Canadian pediatric centers to identify

current practice patterns for use of thickened liquids in managing feeding difficulties of infants and to justify the

need for standardisation of this practice. Method: A web‐based pilot survey was developed using Fluidsurveys

software. The questionnaire contained 37 questions targeting the process of prescribing thickeners, choice of

thickener, awareness of issues and inconsistencies raised in the literature about thickener use and how to address

them. A total of 69 questionnaire responses were analyzed using descriptive statistics and inductive thematic

analysis methods. Practice implications: Our study results indicate that thickened liquids continue to be broadly

used to manage feeding difficulties in Canadian infants, despite numerous areas of concern related to their use

raised by our respondents. While clear practice patterns for assessment and management were observed among

the respondents, some areas of practice did not reflect recent published research or experts' opinion. Conclusion:

Further research to develop a systematic approach for assessment, intervention and follow up is warranted to

guide clinicians in this complex decision‐making process.

F77 Muriel Driver Memorial Lecture and Awards Ceremony / Discours commémoratif Muriel Driver et

cérémonie de remise des prix



In all of Bonnie Kirsh endeavours, she has been highly regarded by her colleagues; she engenders great respect and

is an inspiration to her students and all others who work with her. Through her clinical and academic work, she has

greatly expanded the profession’s body of knowledge, helped build research capacity in mental health, and


influenced policy development and services in the community. She has raised the profile of occupational therapy in

mental health across many disciplines and within various contexts, including the general public. She has helped

bring the role of occupational therapy in mental health to the national stage through her work with the Mental

Health Commission and with the Canadian Mental Health Association Bonnie Kirsh is an advocate for the role of

occupational therapy in mental illness and continues to make outstanding contribution to our profession.

Following the Muriel Driver Memorial Lecture, CAOT will honour fellow occupational therapists that have made outstanding contributions to advancing the profession by presenting our award winners. COTF will also announce grant and scholarship recipients.

Dans tous les projets qu’elle a entrepris, Mme Kirsh a suscité l’estime de ses collègues; elle impose le respect et elle est une source d’inspiration pour ses étudiants et pour toutes les autres personnes qui travaillent avec elle. Par l’intermédiaire de ses travaux cliniques et universitaires, elle a grandement contribué à l’enrichissement de l’ensemble des connaissances au sein de la profession et à la croissance de la capacité de recherche en santé mentale; elle a également influencé le développement des politiques et des services au sein de la communauté. De plus, Mme Kirsh a rehaussé le profil de l’ergothérapie en santé mentale auprès de nombreuses disciplines et dans divers contextes, de même qu’auprès de la population générale. Elle a contribué à définir et à promouvoir le rôle de l’ergothérapie en santé mentale à l’échelle nationale, grâce à son travail au sein de la Commission de la santé mentale du Canada et de l’Association canadienne pour la santé mentale. Bonnie Kirsh se pose en défenseur du rôle de l’ergothérapie en santé mentale et son apport est toujours inestimable au sein de notre profession.

Après le discours commémoratif Muriel Driver, l’ACE honorera des collègues ergothérapeutes ayant contribué de manière exceptionnelle à l’avancement de la profession, en dévoilant les lauréats de ses différents prix. La FCE annoncera également les récipiendaires de ses subventions et bourses.

Saturday,May30samedi,le30maiS1 Occupational Justice and Accessibility Legislation

Saturday 08:30‐09:30 Room/ Salle : Wellington

Dianna Fong Lee (Conestoga College, Kitchener) dfong‐[email protected] Andrea Walsh

Extended discussion : Administration Health Policy, Non‐specific to Client Group

Introduction: Accessibility legislation such as the Accessibility for Ontarians with a Disability Act (AODA, 2005) and

the Accessibility for Manitobans Act (2013); represents significant progress towards occupational justice and

accessibility for Canadians with disabilities in a way that will promote integration and full participation or

engagement in occupation. As the timeline for implementation of accessibility legislation progresses, occupational

therapists (OTs) need to be prepared for a wide range of opportunities that require identifying and removing

barriers in key areas of daily living preventing clients from engaging in occupations that promote health and quality

of life. Objectives: The purpose of this session is to review key components of accessibility legislation under the

categories of customer service, employment, information/communication, transportation and the built

environment; and to discuss the role, value and contribution of OTs providing service to the public and private

sector. Approach: Large group presentation with interactive case scenarios will be used to highlight the range of

OT intervention or consultation that may be required by the public and private sector to ensure compliance with

accessibility mandates. Practice implications: Implementation of accessibility legislation within the public and

private sector is expanding employment opportunities for OTs with the foundational knowledge and philosophy of

occupational justice. OTs will need to mobilize strategies and resources in order to market our role, value and

contribution. Conclusions: Understanding landmark legislation on accessibility from Ontario and Manitoba will

prepare OTs across Canada to effectively market OT services and address challenges in occupational justice and

accessibility.

S2 TBA

Saturday 08:30‐09:00 Room/ Salle : Cambridge


S3 Occupational injustice on campus: Students with disabilities legitimizing their roles

Saturday 08:30‐09:00 Room/ Salle : Harrow/Essex/ Canterbury

Laura Bulk (University of British Columbia / Sahara Rehabilitation, Vancouver) [email protected] Adam

Easterbrook, Ruth Warick, Michael Lee, Marlee Groening, Earllene Roberts, Sneha Shankar, Kimberley Fink‐Jensen,

Parisa Ghanouni, Gurdeep Parhar, T

: Education, Adult General

Introduction: The underrepresentation of students with disabilities (SWD) in health and human service (HHS)

programs is problematic because it represents a limitation in occupational engagement and thus an occupational

injustice. Moreover, the student population, and hence population of future clinicians, is currently not accurately

representing the diversity of the society they will serve. To address this occupational injustice, we must further our

understanding of the barriers faced by SWD in HHS programs. Objective: Explore the experiences of SWD in HHS

programs. Methods: We conducted interviews with 8 SWD in HHS programs. Interviews were transcribed, coded,

and analysed using the constant comparative approach. Results: Students engage in an ongoing process of

legitimization to deal with the labelling stigmatization associated with having a disability. Specifically, students

attempt to demonstrate, to themselves and to others, that they can perform the roles of good student and future

clinician through a process involving: identity negotiation, advocacy, selective disclosure, and sacrifices of time and

energy. Identity negotiation occurs as students accept, reject, or modify the disability label and its relationship to

their identity. Advocacy involves being more or less agentic in receiving accommodations or advancing needs.

Selective disclosure is used to manage the perceptions of others. Sacrifices of time and energy occur as students

take time away from other areas of their lives in order to perform their roles. Conclusions: A pervasive barrier that

SWD in HHS programs navigate is having to legitimate themselves because of the labelling and stigma associated

with having a disability.

S4 TBA

Saturday 08:30‐09:00 Room/ Salle :

S5 Picture This: Exploring high‐functioning stroke survivors’ lived experience via photovoice


Linh Huynh [email protected] Marie Maratos, Jordon Lui, Julia Tan, Tal Jarus


Introduction. Community participation is a critical component of rehabilitation following stroke. An increasing

number of stroke survivors are presenting with minimal functional impairments. These high functioning stroke

survivors are often discharged with minimum community supports and services for successful community

reintegration. However, despite their high level of function, they may have "nonvisible" impacts from stroke that

hinder their occupational participation. Consequently, their experiences and needs may be overlooked. Objectives.

To explore the lived experience of high functioning stroke survivors and to identify potential gaps in community

services. Methods. Photovoice, a community‐based participatory research method, will be used. Two focus groups

of 4‐6 community dwelling, high functioning stroke survivors will photo‐document their everyday experiences

related to participant‐driven themes. Motivations and stories behind the photographs will be elicited during 4

weekly sessions. Data will be analyzed for broader themes related to living as a high functioning stroke survivor.

Participants will also host a community photo exhibition to share their experiences with diverse stakeholders, such

as clinicians, policy makers and the public. Results. Anticipated themes to emerge from our analysis may include

accessibility, barriers and facilitators to participation, and stigma. The community exhibition is expected to offer

stakeholders insight to take action for change. Conclusion. Photovoice is a client‐centred approach that will help

strengthen our understanding of the community needs of high functioning stroke survivors. Participant‐generated

data will reveal the voices of their everyday experiences and ultimately contribute to the future development of

community programs and services for higher functioning stroke survivors.


S6 Occupational Transition from Homelessness to Becoming Housed: A Scoping Review




Introduction: In order to identify the parameters of the research literature relating to the occupational transition

from homelessness to becoming housed, a scoping review was conducted. Objectives: To present an overview of

the scoping study that has been conducted. Methods: A scoping review using the method suggested by Arksey &

O'Malley (2005) was used to conduct the review. 7 databases were searched in a variety of disciplines using several

search terms. Results: Results suggest that the occupational transition from homelessness to becoming housed is a

significantly under‐researched area with very little published literature. The results of this scoping review

presented challenges with identifying search terms related to occupation in the interdisciplinary literature. This

study highlights the inherent challenges with identifying the scope of the literature that relates to occupation due

to the range of search terms that may potentially be used in the interdisciplinary literature. Conclusions: In order

for occupational therapists to situate themselves in position to support persons who are transitioning to housing

using evidence to support their interventions, occupational therapists and occupational therapy researchers will

need to contribute to this area of research. With a refined understanding of occupation, and its’ importance in the

lives of humans, OT researchers and occupational scientists are well situated to explore this gap in the literature.

S7 Robot‐Asssited Therapy for Children with Cerebral Palsy


Fatema Jivanjee [email protected]

Poster defense : Theory, Child/Adolescent Physical Health

Background: Robot‐assisted therapy has received increased attention over the last 10 ‐ 15 years. Majority of

research has focused on upper‐limb treatment in adult stroke patients. With the success this therapeutic mode has

seen, there has been a shift to investigating robot‐assisted therapy with other groups. In particular, there has been

increased interest in its application for children with cerebral palsy (CP). Objectives: The primary aim of this study

was to investigate the available literature on the use of robot‐assisted interventions for children with CP. Major

themes and gaps in research were also discussed. Methods: Using a scoping study method five databases were

systematically searched for relevant studies published between January 1998 and March 2014. Studies relating to

the use of robotic devices for rehabilitation treatment of children with CP were selected and analyzed. A

descriptive‐analytical method was applied to synthesize the literature. Results: Through an extensive literature

search and application of inclusion and exclusion criteria, 28 papers were included. Two key devices were found to

be prevalent in the literature. The first is the Lokomat® ‐ a pediatric driven gain orthosis for lower limb gait training

and the second is the InMotion2 for upper limb rehabilitation. Research on the benefits of combining robotic

technology with augmented feedback and virtual reality is also emerging. Conclusions: Research in this field is in its

early stages. There is a need for more rigorous and standardized trials with larger sample sizes. There is also a lack

of research comparing robotic technology to conventional rehabilitation.

S8 TBA

Saturday 08:30‐09:00 Room/ Salle : Salon A Richardson Conf Centre

S9 Cultivating the Reflective Practitioner: Reflecting on reflection together

Saturday 08:30‐09:30 Room/ Salle : Salon B Richardson Conf Centre

Melissa Park (McGill University, Montreal) [email protected] Hiba Zafran, Cynthia Perlman, Raphael

Lencucha, Laurence Roy, Suzanne Rouleau, Aliki Thomas


Introduction: Reflection is a cornerstone of occupational therapy practice and is explicitly described in the Profile

of Occupational Therapy Practice in Canada as a core element of the scholarly practitioner and expert roles


(Canadian Association of Occupational Therapists, 2012 [1]), as well as in the provision of culturally safe services

(Gerlach, 2012 [2]). Yet, specific strategies for promoting, modelling and assessing reflection for occupational

therapy practice and education have yet to be determined. Objectives: The objectives of the session are: 1)

introduce paradigms on reflection and reflective practice; 2) provide a pedagogical illustration, including lessons

learned and questions raised for collective discussion; and 3) map current strategies used by participants in their

clinical or educational settings for promoting reflective practices. Methods: Using our curriculum as a case study

and Kinsella's (2012 [3]) “continuum of reflection” as a heuristic framework, we will present how we integrated

reflective practices into our teaching and coursework. Participants will then work in small groups to discuss

reflective practices currently used in their settings. These will then be shared and mapped onto the “continuum of

reflection,” and distributed to participants. Practice Implications: These collective discussions on how we

conceptualize and integrate reflective practice as a skill will provide definitions, theories, and a shared map of

strategies to support the teaching and assessment of reflection in occupational therapy practice and education.

Conclusion: Mapping our collective experiences of reflective practices and using theory to consider its complex

origins and multiple applications will contribute to cultivating reflective, scholarly and culturally‐safe practitioners.

S10 Moving beyond the risk of dependence to advance stroke rehabilitation

Saturday 08:30‐09:30 Room/ Salle : York

Mary Egan (University of Ottawa, Ottawa) [email protected] Debbie Rudman, Christine Ceci, Dorothy Kessler,

Colleen McGrath

Extended discussion : Community, Adult Physical Health

Introduction. Recent research indicates that autonomy and risk‐taking are essential to re‐engagement in

personally valued occupations following a stroke. Wishing to understand how risk was conceptualized in stroke

rehabilitation, we carried out a critical interpretative synthesis. This synthesis demonstrated that research and care

have been driven by a historical focus on functional dependence and a current metaphor of "rewiring the brain".

While useful, these ideas tend to limit our attention to basic skills and promote practice that does not address the

uniqueness of the client and his or her environment. Objectives. To share our critical interpretative synthesis and

advance practice and research by beginning to identify new metaphors and focuses of care. Approach. We will

share the process and results of our critical interpretative synthesis. We will facilitate small group discussion

among extended session participants to identify other potential Objectives of therapy and visions of recovery, as

well as barriers as facilitators to the use of these in research and practice. Practice implications. Critical

interpretative synthesis can help identify implicit conceptualizations of rehabilitation that drive and limit research

and practice. Reflection on these conceptualizations can open up new avenues for promoting engagement in

valued occupations. Conclusions. As we work with clients who have experienced stroke, it is important to critically

reflect on current conceptualizations of rehabilitation and how they can be revised to better enable occupation.

S11 Inclusive Occupational Therapy Education: Who and How are We Excluding?


Barry Trentham (University of Toronto, Toronto) [email protected] Jill Stier, Lynn Cockburn, Deb Cameron,

Rebecca Renwick, Anne Fourt, Sylvia Langlois, Ruheena Sangrar


Rationale: While a growing body of literature speaks to the need to graduate cross‐culturally competent

occupational therapists, more evidence is needed on how to achieve this goal. Some authors have discussed the

importance of creating inclusive learning environments that foster cross‐cultural dialogue and tap into diverse

lived experiences and knowledge backgrounds of the student body. However questions remain as to how

educators use inclusive learning strategies that do not inadvertently reinforce limiting stereotypes or place

students in vulnerable positions. Objectives: This presentation reports on a study in progress, highlighting how

organizational and pedagogical practices influence experiences of exclusion or inclusion in occupational therapy

education. Methods: Informed by narrative and institutional ethnography research methods, we engaged nine

students in qualitative interviews to explore their experiences of an occupational therapy curriculum from a


diversity and inclusion perspective. Student narratives directed investigators to examine organizational and

curricular policies and procedures that may limit or facilitate inclusive education. Results: Preliminary results

suggest that (1) students' definitions of diversity may be much broader than educators' views, (2) power inequities

that reinforce experiences of exclusion are insufficiently addressed, (3) inconsistencies amongst faculty regarding

inclusive language and practices (4) uncertainty regarding ways to communicate feedback about exclusionary

language or practices. Conclusion: Using an occupational justice lens, the challenge is to better inform inclusive

education efforts by identifying exclusionary practices that limit student engagement in learning occupations,

perpetuate limiting stereotypes, reinforce inequities and limit efforts to graduate cross‐culturally competent

therapists. Evidence‐informed training for faculty and students is indicated.

S12 Playful engagement of children with Autism Spectrum Disorder: Scoping study


Julie Godin (Université Laval, Québec) [email protected] Andrew Freeman, Patty Rigby

Paper presentations : Theory, Child/Adolescent Psychosocial Health

Introduction: Preschool‐aged children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) frequently experience significant

difficulties engaging in meaningful play. Enabling their playful engagement in social interactions, a critical

component of playfulness, is an important objective for occupational therapists. However, little is known about

which interventions promote this competency. Objective: To conduct a scoping study to map the breadth and

summarize the research evidence regarding interventions that promote the playful engagement of preschool‐aged

children with ASD with adult play partners. Methods: This study is using Arksey and O'Malley's (2005)

methodological framework for scoping studies and includes literature from January 2000‐December 2013.

Inclusion and exclusion criteria were established based on the results of a rigorous conceptual clarification exercise

that identified the key behaviours associated with the construct of playful engagement with children with ASD

(Godin, Freeman, & Rigby, in review). Data is being analyzed using qualitative thematic mapping. Results: A

considerable number and variety of interventions have been used that are coherent with the promotion of playful

engagement. An overview of these interventions, including details regarding the specific methods and strategies

used, will be presented, as will a thematic analysis that summarizes the evidence specifically with reference to

occupational therapy practice. Conclusion: The results of this scoping study can guide occupational therapists

towards occupationally‐oriented interventions to promote the playful social engagement of children with ASD.

Specifically, these results will identify the nature of strategies used to promote playful interactions, and the

outcomes of intervention studies, as well as directions for future research on this topic.

S13 Individualized Falls Prevention Clinic for Medically Complex Clients


Teresa Chien (University of Toronto, Toronto) [email protected] Melissa Goddard, Jessica Casey, Rachel

Devitt, Julia Filinski

Poster defense : Community, Older Adult Physical Health

Rationale: Medically complex clients (MCCs) are inherently at an increased risk for falls. MCCs predominantly

present as older adults although an emerging trend includes a younger adult population. Fragmentation in the

continuum of care for MCCs makes managing multiple conditions a difficult task for health care staff and

community dwelling clients. Any delay in the recovery process predisposes MCCs to deconditioning, which

increases the risk of falls. There is a need for individualized approaches to falls prevention care to meet the needs

of MCCs and to address current gaps within community falls prevention services. Objectives: The purpose of this

study is to determine the effectiveness of an individualized falls prevention clinic for adults and older adults with

medically complex needs. Approach: A retrospective chart review with one group pre‐test post‐test design will be

used to compare functional outcome measures. Client‐centred goals, falls efficacy scales and client satisfaction

surveys will also undergo analysis. All consecutive participants discharged from the Falls Prevention Clinic between

January to December 2014 will be screened for this study. Descriptive and inferential statistics will be utilized to

analyze data collected. Practice Implications: This study will help increase awareness of the necessity of a


multifactorial interprofessional approach for MCCs as well as contribute to the evidence on best practice

recommendations for individualized falls prevention care for MCCs. Conclusions: Study findings can garner

attention to the needs of community dwelling MCCs participating in individualized falls prevention interventions

with the goals of enabling function and independence for defining their success.

S14 Mirror therapy: Beneficial for stroke survivors with hemiparesis and hemi‐inattention?


Rebecca Northy (University of Toronto, Toronto) [email protected] Stephanie Nash, Edith Ng,

Debbie Hebert


Introduction: Hemiparesis and hemi‐inattention are two common consequences of stroke that significantly limit

motor function and hinder daily living. Evidence has found mirror therapy (MT) to be an effective intervention for

improving arm function for people with hemiparesis, however few studies have investigated the effects of MT on

people with both hemiparesis and hemi‐inattention. Objectives: This study will investigate the effects of an MT

intervention on upper extremity (UE) motor recovery and client‐identified goals in stroke survivors with

hemiparesis and with or without hemi‐inattention. Methods: A quasi‐experimental, repeated measures study will

be conducted, in which outcome measures will be administered at baseline, pre‐test, post‐test, and follow up.

Participants will be recruited from an outpatient stroke rehabilitation program and divided into two groups

depending on the presence of hemi‐inattention. Both groups will participate in a four‐week, goal informed, MT

program three days per week at home, and two days per week in clinic for 30 minutes. The Fugl‐Meyer

Assessment, Chedoke Arm and Hand Activity Inventory, Action Research Arm Test, Chedoke‐McMaster Stroke

Assessment, Goal Attainment Scaling and tests of hemi‐inattention will be used to assess UE motor recovery and

hemi‐inattention. Repeated measures ANOVA will be used to investigate within and between group differences.

Results: It is hypothesized that both groups will demonstrate an improvement in UE motor function, but that the

improvement will be greater in those with only hemiparesis. Conclusions: This study will enhance our

understanding of those who will benefit from MT within the stroke population.

S15 Modified ride‐on cars for toddlers with severe motor impairments


Stefanie Radia‐Bramwell [email protected] Mallory Owen, Stefanie Radia‐Bramwell, Laura

Cooper Kruk, Debra Cameron


Rationale. Exploration of the environment through the onset of independent mobility introduces children to new

opportunities for social, motor, and cognitive development. Children with severe motor dysfunction have limited

access to these opportunities, and are therefore at risk for developmental impairments secondary to reduced

mobility (Tefft, Guerette, it has the potential to create developmental opportunities through fostering interaction

with the environment. Objective. To quantify the effect of modified ride‐on cars on interaction with the

environment in toddlers with severe motor impairments. Methods. This study will employ a quantitative single‐

subject repeated measures design. Following a 3‐week baseline phase, two to four toddlers between 12 and 30

months of age will receive modified ride‐on cars for a 10‐week intervention phase. Weekly video recording

sessions will capture each toddler's interaction with their environment; the incidence of target behaviours will be

graphed and visually inspected for trends. Goal Attainment Scaling (Kiresuk & Sherman, 1968) will be used to

capture parents' subjective evaluations of their children's progress. Results. This study will look for increases in

children's interaction with their environment as assessed by the outcomes of clinically identified target behaviours,

parent‐developed goals, and positive feedback from the family about the intervention. Conclusions. Modified ride‐

on cars are a feasible early intervention strategy to facilitate learning and development through interaction with

the environment in children with severe motor impairments.


S16 Exploring the functional impact of adaptive seating in children


Carly D. Stier [email protected] Ivan Chieu, Lori Howell, Stephen Ryan


Rationale: OTs recommend assistive technology devices for children to improve their seated control and

alignment, and thereby optimize their occupational performance. Sound outcome measures provide clinicians with

tools to understand and demonstrate the functional value of technologies. The Family Impact of Assistive

Technology Scale for Adaptive Seating (FIATS‐AS) is a sound research measure that detects functional outcomes

associated with adaptive seating interventions (Ryan et al., 2014). However, its' clinical application has not been

explored in individual children and their families. Objectives: The aim of this research study is to explore the

responsiveness of the FIATS‐AS for detecting the short‐term functional impact of adaptive seating interventions in

four children and youth with mobility impairments and their families after receiving a new adaptive seating

system. Methods: The FIATS‐AS and other functional measures will be administered at the time of dispensing and 6

weeks after receipt of new adaptive seating system for a wheeled mobility device. Clinical data will be collected to

provide a rich description of the child and adaptive seating intervention. A semi‐structured parent interview will

also explore the functional effects of the intervention at the end of the study. Results: It is expected that the FIATS‐

AS will show small, positive changes in functional outcomes measured in the four families and that these changes

will be reflected in the parent interviews. Conclusion: The results of this study will provide OTs with an emerging

measure that can be used to detect adaptive seating outcomes in children and youth with mobility impairments.

S17 Equity, justice and self‐directed care; Unraveling the complexity


Regina Casey (Douglas College, Vancouver ) [email protected] Judith Cook, Sue MacDonald, Simon Davis,

Margaret Morrow, Maya Alanso, Karen Douglas

Paper presentations : Administration Health Policy, Adult Psychosocial Health

Introduction The Canadian Museum of Human Rights recently hosted philosophers A C Grayling and Martha

Nussbaum, who assert the need for justice as a means for people to be free to seek a life worth living. Self‐directed

care is a model of healthcare financing (infrequently practiced in Canada) offering participants increased choice of

providers as well as the opportunity to purchase material goods and services not usually available in traditional

service systems (Cook, Russell et al., 2008). Objectives Research regarding self ‐directed care in the Canadian

context will be described. Two bursary projects in British Columbia are being studied that offer participants with

lived experience of mental illness the opportunity to purchase goods and services for wellness and recovery.

Preliminary findings will be shared Methods This participatory action research project will adapt an

intersectionality framework in order to better understand systems and process of domination through a wide

political and social lens (Hankivsky & Cormier, 2010). The hiring and training peer researchers will begin in

November and participants from two bursary programs will be invited to participate. Results The intersectionality

framework considers ways in which differing social locations like race/ethnicity, sexual orientation, etc., are

relevant both in terms of who accesses the bursary program and how useful participants perceive it to be

regarding recovery goals within the context of larger social and structural inequities in mental health (Morrow, et

al., 2011) Conclusions Findings will illuminate evidence of if, and how, self‐directed care may promote equity for

people with lived experience.

S18 Pleanary Speaker / Conférencière de la séance plénière ‐ Niigaanwewidam James Sinclair

Saturday 10:00‐11:00 Room/ Salle : West Ballroom


Niigaanwewidam James Sinclair is Anishinaabe (St. Peter's/Little Peguis) and an Associate Professor in the

Department of Native Studies at the University of Manitoba. He is a regular commentator on Indigenous issues

nationally on CTV, CBC, and APTN and internationally in The Guardian and Al‐Jazeera America. His written work


can be found in the pages of The Exile Edition of Native Canadian Fiction and Drama, newspapers like The Globe

and Mail and The Winnipeg Free Press, and online with CBC Books: Canada Writes. Niigaan is the co‐editor of the

award‐winning Manitowapow: Aboriginal Writings from the Land of Water (Highwater Press, 2011) Centering

Anishinaabeg Studies: Understanding the World Through Stories (Michigan State University Press, 2013) and The

Winter We Danced: The Past, the Future, and the Idle No More Movement (Arbeiter Ring, 2014). He is also the

Editorial Director of The Debwe Series with Portage and Main Press.

S19 TBA


S20 “Seeing” our role: Role‐emerging fieldwork in vision rehabilitation


Cathy White (Dalhousie University, Halifax) [email protected] Carmel O'Keefe, Tanya Packer


Introduction: Due to personal and environmental factors, people who are blind or partially sighted may face

challenges participating in a variety of daily occupations. In Canada, CNIB is the main provider of vision

rehabilitation. Despite the growing body of evidence related to the role of occupational therapy in vision

rehabilitation, CNIB does not typically employ occupational therapists. Fieldwork in role‐emerging areas of practice

is one way to explore and demonstrate what occupational therapy could offer people who have limited access to

occupational therapy services, such as individuals with vision loss. Objectives: This presentation will 1) describe the

recent fieldwork experiences of several occupational therapy students at CNIB in one Canadian province; 2) make

recommendations for future development of the role of occupational therapy for individuals with vision loss.

Approach: An integrative review of occupational therapy interventions in vision rehabilitation and guided written

reflective narratives provided by students who have completed fieldwork with CNIB will inform recommendations

for future development. Practice Implications: Under the supervision of experienced occupational therapists,

students are providing individual interventions, enhancing existing programs, and introducing new evidence‐based

self‐management programs to enhance participation of people with people who experience vision loss, all of which

have been positively received by the CNIB. Next steps will include a plan for expanding into other provinces, and

advocating for paid occupational therapy positions. Conclusion: Occupational therapy has much to offer in

supporting increased occupational engagement for people with vision loss. Role‐emerging fieldwork has been key

in demonstrating the possibilities.

S21 Movement‐Based Intervention with children with autism ‐ A scoping Review


Keven Lee (McGill University, Montreal) [email protected] Melissa Park, Walter Wittich, Eva Kehayia


Rational: In the past decade, research evidence on the sensory‐motor challenges associated with autism spectrum

disorder (ASD) has raised questions about a unilateral focus on only the psychosocial criteria for the diagnostic

category (Volkmar et al., 2009), and shifted attention from models that focus on deficits in cognitive and

behavioural components towards a more holistic or embodied view of the spectrum and its challenges. The

concept of embodiment examines, and thus includes, sensory and motor actions and experiences as the

foundation for internal structures, such as cognition, emotions and communication (Johnson, 1999). Despite this

recent trend, there is a knowledge gap regarding the efficacy of movement‐based interventions. Objective: The

purpose of the proposed mixed scoping review is to explore what is known in the literature about the use of

Movement‐Based Interventions that are targeting psychosoctial outcomes with children with autism. Methods:

This proposed scoping review is based on guideline and recommendations from Arksey and O'Malley (2005) and

Levac, Colquhoun (2010) and Daudt, Mossel (2013). Results: After reviewing 12 articles using Movement‐Based

Intervention with children with autism looking at psychosocial outcomes. We propose and describe a classification


of such intervention building on their characteristic and emergent theories in the field of autism research.

Conclusions: Results of this scoping review build evidence towards the use of such intervention with children with

autism. Results also suggest methodological and theoretical background to shape practices for children with

autism, and for future research in this emergent field of research.

S22 Seven Financial Management Skills Assessments: An In‐depth Comparison


Lisa Engel (University of Toronto; Rotman Research Institute, Toronto) [email protected] Yael Bar,

Dorcas Beaton, Robin Green, Deirdre Dawson


Introduction: Financial management skills are integral to a person’s independence and participation in meaningful

occupations, but occupational therapists are often unsure how to assess this area. Further, although there are

multiple assessments available, they have not been systematically reviewed. Objectives: The objectives of this

poster are (1) to provide the results of a systematic review of financial management skills assessments; (2) to

critique the psychometric evidence for a sub‐set of these assessments; (3) to provide recommendations to

occupational therapists. Approach: Through the systematic review, 88 assessments were identified that (1) had

items related to financial management skills and (2) have been used in adult population groups with acquired

cognitive impairment. The seven most comprehensive, performance‐based assessments were identified for further

critique. Two reviewers systematically searched for the published psychometric literature and analyzed the

reliability, validity, and responsiveness evidence. Studies were assessed for their quality as well as their results.

Results: The identified assessments are the: 1) Cognitive Competency Test; 2) Everyday Functioning Battery; 3)

Financial Capacity Instrument; 4) Independent Living Scales; 5) Kohlman Evaluation of Living Skills; 6) Measure of

Awareness of Financial Skills; and 7) Semi‐Structured Clinical Interview for Financial Capacity. Data on published

psychometric evidence and recommendations for clinical practice will be presented. Conclusions: While many

assessments have items related to financial management skills, the lack of a systematic review in this area makes

comparisons difficult. This in‐depth comparison of seven selected assessments provides a foundation for

occupational therapists in the assessment of client function and occupational participation.

S23 Client‐Centered Development of a Group Cognitive Intervention


Danielle Fogarty (University of Manitoba) [email protected] Sara Funk, Cara Brown


Introduction: Approximately 50% of people with multiple sclerosis (MS) experience cognitive impairment with no

clear evidence on the most effective cognitive intervention. A group approach to cognitive intervention has

demonstrated promise (Shevil & Finlayson, 2009). Also, improvements in mood and MS symptomology have

resulted from a group approach. Further development and research of group cognitive interventions is warranted.

Objectives: To use a client‐centered approach to inform the development of content and structure of a group

cognitive intervention by collaborating with potential consumers of the group (people with mild cognitive

impairment due to MS). Methods: In this qualitative study, participants had self‐reported physician‐diagnosed MS

and self‐reported mild cognitive impairment. Ten female participants participated in two focus groups which were

audio recorded, transcribed, and analyzed using an inductive approach. Interpretive description guided the data

analysis, which allows for the health professional to bring previous knowledge to the analysis of the data, while still

being cognizant of the researcher's biases. Results: Six themes will be presented: cognitive changes, cognition

barriers, cognition facilitators, impact on daily life, cognitive strategies, and group structure. Participants discussed

factors that made thinking easier or more difficult, how this impacted their daily life, and cognitive strategies they

use to overcome these challenges. Participants also gave suggestions for the group intervention structure and

timing. Conclusion: This study provides content themes and real‐life examples that can be incorporated into a

group cognitive intervention to ensure that it is meaningful and relevant to consumers.


S24 Enhancing Community Participation of Adults with Intellectual or Developmental Disabilities


Ashleigh Blinkhorn (Queen's University, Kingston) [email protected] Emily Floyd, Rosemary Lysaght, Helene

Ouellette‐Kuntz


Introduction: Adults with intellectual or developmental disabilities (IDD) have a host of challenges in terms of

community participation, particularly those with behavioral issues. Long wait times for services create a continual

struggle for both these individuals and their families. Occupational therapy (OT) services could potentially reduce

barriers and promote participation. Objectives: This study will identify the community participation profile of

adults with IDD who have behavioural support needs and determine how their profile differs from individuals

without. Individual and family demographics and environmental factors that influence participation will be

examined, along with the perceived support needs identified by parents. Methods: Secondary analysis of province‐

wide data will be used to address the research questions. Survey and interview data from 121 parents of adults

with IDD will be analyzed quantitatively using scores from the Participation Environment Measure‐Children/Youth

(Coster et al., 2012) to determine community participation profiles. Open‐ended responses concerning the

perceived supports needed for individuals with IDD and behavioural issues will be analyzed qualitatively. Results:

Results will determine which (if any) environmental or demographic variables are associated with particular

participation outcomes, along with factors that would improve family situations. Conclusions: The recent shift

towards social inclusion of individuals with IDD is well suited to the scope of OT. Emphasizing the role of the

environment as an important contributor to community participation will provide evidence for a larger role for OTs

to play in supporting the needs of adults with IDD.

S25 Factors influencing job loss in adults with multiple sclerosis


Shahriar Parvaneh (University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation Sciences;University of British Columbia,

Vancouver) [email protected] Neda Alizadeh, Elham Javadizadeh, Setareh Ghahri


Introduction: Although employment is one of the main areas of activity for adults and has a significant impact on a

person's participation in family and community roles, people with multiple sclerosis (MS) are at risk of losing their

job because of their illness. Many studies have explored factors related to job loss in people with MS. However,

anecdotal information seems to indicate some differences in the factors stakeholders see as important in job loss

and the factors identified in the literature. Objective: To explore the views of stakeholders about factors that

influence job loss in people with MS. Methods: A three‐step Delphi survey was employed. Thirty‐five stakeholders,

consisting of individuals with MS, health professionals, family members and policy makers, participated in this

study. Results: In the final round of the survey, nine themes were obtained and were ordered according to priority.

The themes identified in the survey and also covered in the literature about job loss in people with MS were

disease‐related factors, demographic factors, personal characteristics, family‐related factors, workplace‐related

factors, sociocultural factors and economic factors. However, two factors were not documented in the literature,

skills and knowledge of the person with MS and weaknesses in law enforcement to prevent job loss, were also

mentioned by the participants. Conclusions: A number of factors influence job loss in individuals with MS. A full

understanding of these factors, including those identified by stakeholders may assist with development of

interventions and policies to decrease the risk of unemployment in people with MS.

S26 The Goal Attainment Paradox for Canadians with Mental Illness


Skye Barbic (University of British Columbia, Vancouver) [email protected] Sean Kidd, Gausiha Rathitharan,

Kwame McKenzie, Rosemary Yachouh

Paper presentations : Community, Older Adult Psychosocial Health


Introduction: Serious mental illness (SMI) has widespread impact on human suffering, reduced productivity, and

costs to the Canadian healthcare system. A key influence to mental health recovery is moving beyond the

limitations set by the SMI and engaging in meaningful activity. Surprisingly, little is known about how Canadians

with SMI move towards personal goals for recovery and well‐being. Objective: To describe the current state of

meaningful goal orientation and attainment of persons with SMI. Methods: We conducted a cross‐sectional survey

of individuals with SMI who receive outpatient services in a large urban center. Participants completed six personal

recovery rating scales. Items covered motivation, goal setting, goal attainment, and time spent in meaningful roles.

Results: Two hundred and twenty eight participants were recruited across 6 sites. Mean age (SD) of participants

was 45.5 (12.5) years. Fifty‐one percent were male, and 60% reported a primary diagnosis of schizophrenia. Most

participants reported strong motivation to recover (87%). Nearly 85% reported having goals that they wanted to

reach, but only 35% reported making any progress toward completing their goals in the last three months. Less

than 18% reported spending more than 5 hours/week in structured activity. The results were consistent across the

demographic categories studied. Conclusions: Our results show that individuals with SMI are motivated and goal‐

orientated. However, a significant gap exists between goal setting and goal attainment. In order to optimize the

potential for recovery of people with SMI, an important role exists for occupational therapists to facilitate goal

attainment in this population.

S27 Why don’t clinical occupational therapists volunteer to become research preceptors?


Andrea Dyrkacz (University Health Network ‐ Toronto Western Hospital, Toronto) [email protected]

Michelle Mohan, Edith Ng, Candy Pleasance, Trudy Langendoen


Introduction: Occupational Therapists (OTs) are expected to scholarly practitioners. To move from being users of

clinical knowledge to creators of evidence, Canadian Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy programs

have embedded research education as a key curricular component. However, few clinical OTs volunteer to act as

preceptors for student research endeavors. Objectives:1) To determine specific knowledge and experiential

barriers that deter clinical OTs seeking research preceptorships. 2) To develop targeted educational programming

to address identified barriers .Method: An electronic survey was sent to all OTs in a large, multi‐sited academic

healthcare organization. The survey was open for two weeks, with a response rate of 30.0% (n=54). Results: 74.4%

of respondents indicated that they did not plan to act as a research preceptor. Although 64.8% had a pre‐ or post‐

professional Master's Degree, 81.4% stated they did not believe they had the necessary skills to act as a research

preceptor. No respondent indicated having the requisite skills to independently negotiate the entire research arc ‐

from clinical problem through to the dissemination of the final study results. All respondents stated guidance was

required to complete tasks related to study design, research ethics processes, data collection and analysis. 75.0%

of those who responded indicated an interest in attending targeted research‐related education, with 80.0% willing

to attend brown bag lunch and learn sessions. Conclusion: Despite a curricular‐focus on research as part of pre‐

professional Masters programs, clinical OTs indicate a lack of confidence in the ability to independently handle

research without further targeted education, guidance and mentorship.

S28 Coaching in occupational therapy: Current use, evidence and future directions


Dorothy Kessler (University of Ottawa) [email protected] Fiona Graham


Introduction: In occupational therapy, coaching has been identified as a core enablement skill (Townsend &

Polatajko, 2007) and is being adopted by many as a therapeutic tool to promote client‐centeredness. As the use of

coaching grows in occupational therapy, there is a need to evaluate how it is used and the evidence for its

effectiveness. Objectives: In this study the use of coaching in occupational therapy and the evidence for its use was

examined. Methods: An integrative review was conducted to examine the populations, settings and outcomes for

which coaching is being used by occupational therapists. Similarities and differences among these coaching


interventions and the empirical evidence for their use were identified. Results: Twenty‐four articles describing 11

different interventions that reported use of coaching by occupational therapists were included in the review.

Similarities in the theoretical bases of coaching interventions include use of family‐, client‐ and occupation‐

centered practice and adult learning; Intervention components of goal setting, problem solving and education

were common. However, differences in the directiveness of the occupational therapist were evident. The level of

evidence for interventions ranged from low to moderate. Conclusions: Occupational therapists are using coaching

with clients with a variety of health conditions. Consistencies are noted in the theoretical descriptions of coaching

interventions used by occupational therapists. The level of evidence for coaching provides preliminary support for

its use however occupational therapists should monitor outcomes carefully with individual clients.

S29 COTF AGM


S30 Occupational therapy in disaster contexts: A scoping review


Yunwha Jeong (McMaster University, Hamilton ) [email protected] Mary Law, Paul Stratford, Carol Dematteo,

Hwan Kim


Introduction Disasters significantly influence participation in meaningful occupations in both short and long terms.

Occupational therapists (OTs) have skills and knowledge to help victims, their families and first responders return

to their own lives after disaster (Scaffa, Reitz & Smith, 2011). Because of that, OTs should be involved in all stages

of preparing, responding and recovering from a natural disaster at local and national levels. However, it is

unknown exactly what, when and how OTs have helped survivors, their families and first responders during the

times of disaster. Objectives To identify and inform the roles of OTs in various contexts of a natural disaster

Methods A scoping review will be conducted via five steps suggested by Arksey and O'Malley (2005): 1) identifying

the research question, 2) identifying relevant studies using the research published between 2000 and 2014 and

grey literature in English, 3) study selection based on inclusion criteria by two reviewers, 4) charting the data, and

5) collating, summarizing and reporting the results from the selected studies. These results will be presented using

descriptive numerical and thematic analyses. Practice Implication The results of this scoping review will help OTs

recognize the need for their assistance and provide them with the basic understanding about OTs' roles across the

disaster spectrum: preparedness, response and recovery. It could also contribute to the development of OT

services provided to the survivors and other people affected by disastrous situations. Conclusion The potential

roles of OTs in the context of a natural disaster are identified via the scoping review.

S31 Sensory Processing Concerns in Children Receiving Inpatient Mental Health Services


Laurie Francis [email protected] Lisa Hoyland, Kathryn Harris, Stefanie Bodison, Ajit Ninan

Paper presentations : Institution, Child/Adolescent Psychosocial Health

Introduction: Sensory processing refers to the brain's ability to integrate multisensory inputs from the body and

the environment, and is theorized to serve as a foundation for the development of motor skills and behaviour

regulation (Lane & Schaaf, 2010). To date, there is little published documentation on the prevalence of sensory

processing issues in children with mental health conditions, and the subsequent impact these sensory issues may

have on childhood occupations. Objective: To highlight the prevalence of sensory processing issues impacting

behaviour and daily functioning in children receiving inpatient mental health services. Method: A retrospective

chart review of occupational therapy evaluations was conducted for children admitted to an interdisciplinary

inpatient mental health program from 2010‐2012. The variables collected and analyzed include: age and gender at

time of admission, presenting diagnoses, reasons for referral to OT, scores from the Sensory Processing Measures

completed by caregivers in the home, in‐patient unit, and school settings, and scores from the Bruininks‐Oserestky

Test of Motor Performance. Descriptive statistics about the population will be presented. Results: The results from


this retrospective chart review will inform the clinical community about the prevalence of sensory processing

issues in children with mental health concerns, and the subsequent impact of these sensory issues on childhood

occupations. Conclusions: The results from this study will highlight that an occupational therapy evaluation to

investigate sensory processing concerns in children with mental conditions should occur as routine care in the

treatment of these children.

S32 Piano Playing as a tool in Fine‐Motor Rehabilitation


Anna Schwartz (Rehab Centre for Children, Winnipeg) [email protected]


Introduction. Keyboard playing exercises have been used by rehabilitation disciplines as a tool to successfully

develop/rehabilitate fine motor skills in children and adults post‐stroke or with diagnoses of Arthritis, Autism

Spectrum Disorder, Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder and others. Objectives. Participants will review evidence for

this practice from around the globe and will learn about author's innovative approach in piano‐based fine motor

exercise program. Methods. As a certified piano instructor for students with disabilities, as well as a pediatric

occupational therapist, author developed an original method targeting fine motor skill rehabilitation. Program

implements graded one‐ or two‐handed exercises. Client learns new exercises during OT sessions, which are then

practiced at home, school or clinic. OTs, assisting staff or family members with no musical background can easily

appropriate exercises into therapeutic routines. An acoustic piano or an electric keyboard can be used. Kinesthetic,

tactile and aural feedback provides real‐time gratification. Results. Significant clinical improvement was

documented in the foregoing populations in areas of bilateral coordination, eye‐hand coordination, fine motor

response speed, visual‐motor integration and crossing the midline. Clients found exercises to be motivating and

fun. Conclusions. Piano playing is an effective and engaging tool for increasing fine motor performance in children

and adults with varying diagnoses. Further research using standardized assessment is needed to confirm long‐term

benefits of this intervention to neurological and fine motor development in specific populations.

S33 Towards understanding bath time seating needs of preschoolers with disabilities


Christine Button (University of Toronto, Toronto) [email protected] Emma Coburn, Christie

Welch, Stephen Ryan

Poster defense : Education, Child/Adolescent Physical Health

Rationale: Many preschoolers with neurodevelopmental disabilities rely on adaptive seating devices for postural

support in the bathtub. However, our clinical involvement suggests that parents and therapists are concerned

about the lack of appropriate positioning devices for bathing activities. A systematic investigation of the

perspectives of parents and therapists will help to understand the bath time product needs, challenges,

approaches, and occupations of preschoolers. Objectives: This project will characterize the bath time positioning

needs of children, ages 2‐5 years, who have neurodevelopmental disabilities and need support to sit. This

characterization will support the development of consumer‐based and clinically‐relevant design criteria for

adaptive bathing products for preschoolers. Methods: Three focus groups of 6‐8 participants each will be

convened: one group of parents, one group of occupational and physical therapists, and a mix of parents and

therapists from the first two groups. The first two sessions will identify product needs and design criteria, while the

third group will use the criteria derived to evaluate three different commercial bath seat products. Each session

will be audio and video recorded, transcribed, and analyzed to identify themes and refine the design criteria.

Practice implications: Outcomes of this research will provide preliminary consumer‐based design criteria for

parents and therapists who recommend bath seat devices for young children. Conclusions: This study will identify

the clinical needs, parent practices, and bathing occupations of preschoolers with disabilities to assist in the

evaluation of current and emerging bath seat products.


S34 Palliative care clinic: Patient characteristics and occupational therapy referral patterns


Kate Spreeuw (University of Toronto, Toronto) [email protected] Patricia Taylor, Catherine Dirks,

Lyndsey De Souza, Carol Heck


Rationale: With increased cancer prevalence and resultant morbidity and mortality rates (Canadian Cancer Society,

2014), palliative care is a priority for healthcare with the goal of optimizing function and enhancing quality of life.

Research is needed to advance the understanding of the needs of palliative oncology patients and the role of

occupational therapists (OTs) in addressing these needs. Objective: The current study will: 1) describe

characteristics and referral patterns of patients receiving occupational therapy (OT) through an ambulatory

palliative care clinic and 2) compare peer practices of Ontario OTs working with this population. Methods: Data

(demographics, Palliative Performance Scale and Edmonton Symptom Assessment System scores, OT referral, and

interventions) will be retrospectively extracted from records for patients referred to OT from an ambulatory

oncology palliative care clinic between 2011‐2013 (n=24). In addition, an electronic survey will be sent to a sample

of Ontario OTs (n=40) working with palliative oncology patients to capture OT practice (assessment and

interventions), referral sources and patient demographics. OTs will be recruited for the survey through the

inpatient hospice palliative care directory and the Local Health Integration Networks (LHINS). Descriptive analysis

will be used to analyze data. Results: Expected results include similarities in OT practice, assessment, interventions

and referral process for Ontario OTs and within the ambulatory care clinic. Conclusions: Data collected has the

potential to inform decision makers about patients’ needs in order to enhance program planning for ambulatory

oncology palliative care clinics, and may aid in expanding the role of OTs in this setting.

S35 Evaluating performance efficiency for the Baycrest Multiple Errands Test


Brittney Dumouchelle (University of Toronto) [email protected] Stacey Melo, Emily Nalder,

Amanda Clark, Deirdre Dawson


Rationale: Performance‐based assessments, such as the Multiple Errands Test (MET), enable occupational

therapists to identify functional limitations arising from executive dysfunction, a debilitating consequence of

acquired brain injury (ABI) which hinders community participation. The ecologically valid nature of the MET

requires site‐specific versions to be developed. Despite adequate psychometric properties, there is no consensus

regarding which scoring system provides the best validity and reliability. Typical scoring records task completion,

rule breaks, and errors made. Morrison et al.'s (2013) updated scoring system (MET‐R) includes measuring

performance efficiency: the ratio of tasks completed to locations visited. The MET‐R demonstrated better clinical

utility and psychometric properties; however, it is unknown whether other test versions will yield similar

improvements. Objectives: To determine whether the MET‐R performance efficiency score improves

discriminability and reliability for the Baycrest hospital‐specific version of the MET (BMET). Methods: Performance

efficiency scoring will be applied to previously collected BMET video data of adult participants with ABI and healthy

matched controls (n=15). To evaluate discriminability, effect size calculations will be compared with previous

scoring structures. Inter‐rater reliability will be determined using intra‐class correlation coefficients. Practice

Implications: Measuring performance efficiency is hypothesized to improve the MET's discriminability and

reliability, resulting in a more clinically useful assessment. This will allow clinicians to better detect functional

impairments caused by executive dysfunction in adults with ABI. Conclusions: This research contributes to the

development of more rigorous methods for occupational therapists to evaluate functional performance, and

provides psychometric evidence for continued use of a clinically valuable assessment.

S36 Evaluating the effectiveness of day hospitals’ falls prevention programs



Leanne Leclair (University of Manitoba) [email protected] Elayna Hurtig, Katelyn Jonsson,

Michelle Moir, Kari Christensen

Paper presentations : Community, Older Adult Physical Health

Introduction: Falls among older adults are an increasing concern for society due to the growing population of

people over 65 years. Falls can result in serious injuries, loss of independence, psychological effects, and/or death.

Community‐dwelling older adults who have experienced a fall could benefit from falls prevention programs.

PURPOSE: To determine the effectiveness of interprofessional day hospitals' falls prevention programs in one

Health Region. Methods: Using a retrospective pre‐test, post‐test design, baseline, program completion, and three‐

month follow‐up assessment data from clients' (n=97) who participated in the falls prevention program at the day

hospital sites were analyzed. Descriptive parametric and nonparametric tests were used to analyze relationships

among data. The assessments measured balance, mobility, strength, fear of falling, hypertension, and overall fall

risk. Results: When compared to pre‐test means, there were significant improvements in post‐test means of the

Timed‐Up‐and‐Go (TUG) (p < 0.001), Two‐Minute Walk Test (2MWT) (p < 0.001), Six‐Minute Walk Test (6MWT) (p <

0.001), Berg Balance Scale (BBS) (p = 0.004), and Timed Sit‐to‐Stand (TSS) (p < 0.001). Many of the assessments

were strongly correlated with one another. Twenty percent of the participants experienced a fall at three months

follow‐up compared to 74.8% at intake. Due to missing data, several follow‐up outcomes could not be analysed

reliably nor could differences across sites. Conclusions: Overall, participants' balance and mobility improved

following completion of the program. However, the impact on reducing falls was inconclusive. More complete data

and follow‐up is required to make conclusions regarding effectiveness of the program.

S37 Role of occupational therapy in caring for critically ill individuals


Jocelyn Harris (McMaster University, Hamilton) [email protected] Aileen Costigan, Michelle Kho, Sue Baptiste

Extended discussion : Institution, Adult General

Introduction: Medical advancement has dramatically increased survival from critical illness. However, often

individuals develop physical and cognitive deficits that result in short and long‐term disability. Studies have

indicated a need for interventions to prevent and rehabilitate cognitive and physical deficits within the intensive

care unit (ICU). With the increase demand of rehabilitation services we need to capitalize on the opportunity to

actively participate in defining and developing our role in this area of practice. We propose an extended session.

Objectives: a) determining the role of OT in the ICU and b) build a network of OTs working in ICUs. Approach: We

will combine a presentation on a resent scoping review on the role of OT in the ICU with small group discussion

focused on describing current OT practice and possible future roles. The session will end with a large group

discussion where ideas generated will be shared and documented. The document will be sent to all attendees and

a network will be established to continue the work. Practical implications: The formation of a network will place us

in a position to define our role and advocate for appropriate OT services for those individuals with critical illness.

Conclusion: The magnitude of individuals with lasting physical and cognitive consequences of critical illness leading

to disability is staggering. Occupational Therapists are posed to implement the rehabilitation needed however, to

do so a clear role needs to be defined and developed.

S38 The Design and Implementation of Multimedia Case Studies for Clinical Reasoning


Mary Roduta Roberts (University of Alberta) [email protected] Shaniff Esmail, Eleni Stroulia, Karin Werther,

Lauren Barrett


Introduction: Effective clinical reasoning is a critical component to client‐centred practice. As such, teaching and

learning about clinical reasoning is emphasized in OT curriculum. Documented methods for developing multimedia

case studies to enhance instruction of clinical reasoning are limited. Objectives: The purposes of this presentation

are threefold: 1) To describe the frameworks used to develop new case studies and refine existing case studies for


use within an OT curriculum, 2) To illustrate the implementation of these multimedia case studies within an

interactive online platform, and 3) To describe how these multimedia case studies are used in classroom activities

involving student collaboration, simulated client interactions, and assessment of clinical reasoning. Approach: Two

frameworks used in the development and refinement of case studies will be demonstrated, including alignment

with course instructional objectives and clinical reasoning case studies as teaching tools (Neistadt, Wight, &

Mulligan, 1997). Features of an interactive online platform will be explored highlighting how multimedia case

studies have been used in activities engaging students in the occupational therapy practice process and clinical

reasoning. Practice Implications: This session will provide participants with an approach and potential tool to

develop their own dynamic and accessible resources related to clinical reasoning. Given the increasing use of

technology within higher education, exploration and discussion of multimedia case studies within an interactive

environment is timely. Conclusions: Systematically developing multimedia case studies using the frameworks

described can both engage and facilitate students' clinical reasoning skills within and outside of the classroom.

S39 Environment as key to children’s participation: A Structural Equation Model


Dana Anaby (McGill University, Montreal) [email protected] Mary Law, Wendy Coster, Gary Bedell, Mary

Khetani, Lisa Avery, Rachel Teplicky


Introduction: Environments that provide opportunities and supports can promote children's participation in

occupations; however, the specific role that environments play in the presence of other factors is not well

understood. Objectives: To test the effect of personal and environmental factors on children's participation across

three settings: home, school and community, and to reveal how these factors relate to one another. Methods: 576

parents of children with disabilities (n=282) and without (n=294), ages 5 to 17 years (mean=11.2y), completed the

Participation and Environment Measure for Children and Youth (PEM‐CY). The PEM‐CY assessed participation

frequency and involvement as well as environmental barriers and supports in each setting. Information about the

child's health condition and functional issues was also collected. Three models, one for each setting, were

proposed and tested using Structural Equation Modeling including two indices of fit: the Comparative Fit Index

(CFI) and the Root Mean Square Error of Approximation (RMSEA) Results: All three models fit the data well (CFI,

0.89 to 0.97; RMSEA, 0.042 to 0.06) and explained 50‐64% of the variance of participation frequency and

involvement. Both environmental barriers and supports mediated the relations between child/personal factors

(i.e., functional issues, health condition) and participation outcomes (i.e., frequency, involvement) across all three

models, particularly in the community setting. Conclusions: The mediating role of the environment in effecting

participation redirects clinicians' attention towards interventions targeting modifiable environmental factors.

These findings can also be of interest to policymakers who can enact legislation to remove environmental barriers

in order to promote inclusive communities.

S40 Occupational Therapy Students’ Perceptions of Teaching of Evidence‐Based Practice


Lu Han (McGill University) [email protected] Brittony Osler, Emily Turnbull, Aliki Thomas

Paper presentations : Administration Health Policy, Non‐specific to Client Group

Introduction: Evidence‐based practice (EBP) is an integral component of Canadian occupational therapy programs.

Despite efforts by academic programs to design and implement EBP content, research on students’ attitudes

towards EBP and perceptions regarding integration within the curriculum remains scarce. Objectives: To examine

students’ attitudes towards EBP and their perceptions of the teaching and assessment of EBP in one occupational

therapy curriculum. Methods: A mixed methods design. Quantitative phase consisted 69‐item cross‐sectional

survey administered to 5 student cohorts across the program, used to capture students’ 1) attitudes towards EBP;

2) perceptions regarding the teaching and evaluation of EBP; and 3) EBP self‐efficacy. Descriptive statistics and

analysis of variance were used to detect group differences. Focus groups were utilized in exploring survey data

with greater depth, using thematic analysis for the groups’ data. Results: While all students held positive attitudes


towards EBP, there were no differences between cohorts. Perceptions about the teaching and assessment of EBP

within the curriculum varied significantly between cohorts, being less favourable amongst junior cohorts. EBP self‐

efficacy increased significantly with each succeeding cohort. Thematic analysis of focus group data revealed four

themes: a) perceptions on EBP value, b) barriers to applying EBP, c) opposing worlds: EBP contrasts, and d) vital

and imperfect role of the curriculum. Conclusions: Findings suggest students develop a greater appreciation of EBP

instruction as they progress through the program, increasingly develop EBP self‐efficacy, while EBP attitudes do

not increase. Suggestions are made on how to design and revise EBP content within occupational therapy

programs.

S41 The go‐along interview as a lens on community participation


Cathy White (Dalhousie University, Halifax) [email protected] Gallant Karen, Hamilton‐Hinch Barbara,

Fenton Lara, Hutchinson Susan


Introduction: Social inclusion and addressing issues of stigma and discrimination cannot be ignored if people with

mental illness are to integrate not just physically, but socially and psychologically into their communities.

Cultivating welcoming environments and eliminating stigmatizing attitudes (“not in my back yard” phenomenon)

are essential to foster community integration. Objectives: The objectives of this research were 1) to pilot an

innovative process (the “go‐along interview”) for capturing the “first voice” perspectives of people with mental

illness and 2) to determine how they overcome barriers and access meaningful

social/leisure/recreational/volunteer activity in the community. Approach: The go‐along interview (Carpiano, 2009

[1]; Garcia, Eisenberg, Frerich, Lechner, & Lust, 2012 [2]), was used as an elicitation technique to gain access to this

information in rural, small‐town, and urban areas in one Canadian province. This approach involves the participant

taking the researcher on a guided tour of a specific area explaining how they perceive their environment. Practice

implications: While challenges were experienced, this method holds promise for occupational therapists who are

interested in better understanding the influence of the environment on occupational engagement in a range of

community settings, not only for research purposes, but as part of assessing a client's community‐based resources.

By mapping assets and identifying barriers, interventions focused on the environment can be more effectively

targeted. Conclusions: The go‐along interview is an innovative and effective tool that occupational therapist could

use to better understand community engagement, and to promote occupational justice.

S42 Comprehensive Measurement Tool for TBI: Clinical Utility and Content Validity


Lauren MacDonald (University of British Columbia) [email protected] Katie Scott‐Moncrieff, Jeff Boniface,

Giovanna Boniface, Susan Forwell


Introduction: The functional implications of a traumatic brain injury (TBI) are vast, and include, but are not limited

to, difficulties with mobility, self‐care, cognitive processes, community integration, sexual functioning, and quality

of life. Assessment of the barriers and facilitators of client activity and participation is critical in occupational

therapy (OT) practice, as it informs treatment, guides clinical reasoning, and documents outcomes for therapists,

clients, and third parties. Although many assessment tools exist, there is currently no standardized, comprehensive

measure for OT’s to use when working with persons with TBI living in the community. To address this gap, a

comprehensive outcome measure was developed for use with community dwelling adults with TBI. Objective: To

systematically refine the comprehensive measurement tool for TBI and establish its clinical utility and content

validity. Methods: This study involves a systematic consultation with community‐based occupational therapists

with experience working with persons with TBI. Two rounds of surveys will be conducted to access therapist

opinion on the measure, and feedback from each round will be used to further refine the tool. Results: The

resulting comprehensive measure is systematically shaped by clinicians, and through the process, content validity


and clinical utility is established. Conclusion: Through systematic evaluation, this study provides a comprehensive

and useful OT assessment for use with community dwelling adults with TBI.

S43 Interrater reliability and criterion validity of Algo


Marilyn Gagnon (Sherbrooke University) [email protected] Sophie‐Andree Marois, Marilou

Trempe, Virginie Beaudin, Lecours Andreanne, Annick Bourget, Manon Guay


Introduction: Referrals in homecare occupational therapy (OT) often concern bathing difficulties, which is the most

problematic activity of daily living associated with aging. There are months of waiting time before receiving OT

services in Quebec and the risk of bathroom falls is high for older adults. The clinical algorithm Algo was recently

developed and validated with homecare aides to support the use of skill‐mix for the selection of bathing

equipment for community‐dwelling elders in straightforward situations. However, neither the criterion validity for

non‐occupational therapists (non‐OTs) other than homecare aides nor the Algo's interrater reliability have been

assessed. Objectives: To determine if non‐OTs with different job titles using Algo make 1) similar recommendations

for the same patients and 2) acceptable recommendations according to an OT. Method: Eight non‐OTs (3 social

workers, 2 physical rehabilitation therapists, 2 homecare aides, 1 auxiliary nurse) were trained on Algo and used it

with six standardized straightforward patients. Recommendations (one out of 9 options) made by non‐OTs were

compared to estimate the degree of agreement using Fleiss kappa. Their recommendations were also compared to

the judgment of two OTs (criterions) to assess the criterion validity. Results: Estimated kappa was 0.43 [0.36; 0.49]

and non‐OTs using Algo made acceptable recommendations for all standardized patients according to an OT's

opinion. Conclusions: Non‐OTs using Algo recommend similar and acceptable bathroom adaptations for the same

patients increasing confidence regarding interrater reliability and criterion validity of Algo used by non‐OTs.

S44 Occupational therapy practice and problems of motivation in mental illness


Ginette Aubin (Université du Québec à Trois‐Rivières, Trois‐Rivières) [email protected]


Introduction: People with severe mental illness (SMI) often have difficulties to engage in daily activities. Although

interventions have been developed and used specifically for motivational problems in people with SMI, little is

known about how occupational therapists actually address problems in occupational motivation in these persons.

Objectives: The general objective of this study was to describe the practice of occupational therapists relative to

problems in occupational motivation in people with SMI, their understanding of these problems as well as the

challenges they encounter. Methods: For this qualitative study, occupational therapists with experience with this

clientele and working in different clinical settings were recruited. Three focus groups including between 6 and 10

participants for a total of 21 participants, were conducted by two members of the research team. Verbatim was

transcribed and thematic analysis based on the research questions and topics explored was performed. Results:

Findings suggest that a major step in the process is “finding out the opening”. Formal and informal assessment and

intervention are used and characterized by series of continuums based on level of autonomy, connection, task

complexity and of extrinsic and intrinsic motivation. Occupational therapists explanations of the motivational

problems varied, depending on personal and environmental factors. Challenges emerged either from the person,

from the occupational therapist and from the environment. Conclusion: This study provides an in‐depth

understanding of occupational therapists' practice relative to motivational problems in people with SMI. This new

empirical knowledge will contribute to build evidence about the practice of occupational therapists.

S45


TBA


S46 WFOT


Sandra Bressler [email protected]

Sponsored Session

This session will describe the WFOT’s new leadership structure and portfolios, current key initiatives, its ongoing

activities and the outcome of the 2014 Council Meeting. We will then focus on the new portfolio of Professional

Practice and how Canadian occupational therapists can be involved in the projects that have recently begun. Some

projects are: developing on online community of occupational therapists, the role of professional associations in

monitoring practice and a review of quality indicators for occupational therapy. There will also be an opportunity

to make suggestions for emerging areas of practice that fit with the WFOT’s key initiatives.

S47 Clinical Usefulness of the Wheelchair Outcome Measure for Young People


Heather Corra [email protected] Stephanie Goodmanson, Debbie Field, William C. Miller


Rationale: Children and youth who have impaired functional mobility are at the highest risk for restrictions in their

participation in daily activities. Wheelchairs and seating systems are common interventions provided to enable

participation. The Wheelchair Outcome Measure for Young People (WhOM‐YP) is designed to assist in the

evaluation of how well a wheelchair intervention enables a young person's participation in their individual goals.

As with any outcome measure, its uptake will be dependent upon its perceived usefulness by clinicians. Evaluation

of clinical usefulness is therefore a critical step in the development of the WhOM‐YP. Objectives: To 1) evaluate the

clinical usefulness of the WhOM‐YP using an online survey targeting clinicians and 2) identify potential

modifications that will enhance the assessment's usefulness in a clinical setting. Methods: Pediatric occupational

and physical therapists are invited to review the WhOM‐YP, the administration manual and an instructional video

before completing an online survey to provide feedback on the tool's usefulness. Responses include yes/no, five‐

point Likert scales, and open‐ended text. Results: Descriptive statistics summarize participant feedback on the

WhOM‐YP and its accompanying training resources, barriers and facilitators that influence clinicians' decisions to

use the WhOM‐YP, and issues that contribute to its uptake. Conclusions: The WhOM‐YP equips clinicians with a

measure that evaluates the impact of wheelchair and seating systems on individualized participation goals of

young people. This study explores clinicians' impressions of the WhOM‐YP and its usefulness, provides valuable

input for future development, and facilitates knowledge mobilization about this new tool.

S48 Mindfulness in Schools‐ emergent practice


Katherine Thom (Social Cognition Lab, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg) [email protected] Karen

Penner

Extended discussion : Education, Child/Adolescent Psychosocial Health

Introduction: Mindfulness practice enhances mental health by providing an efficacious tool to manage stress,

anxiety, depression, pain, and/or self‐regulation for Occupational Therapists working with children and youth in

the school system. By addressing empathy and self‐compassion, mindfulness training can also enhance social

determinants of health across populations and ages. Objectives: The Objectives of this extended session are to 1)

summarize the science supporting mindfulness training for both clinician and client, 2) consider mindfulness

training as an emergent area of practice for pediatric OT, and 3) introduce the Mindfulness in Schools project as an

example of an established curriculum for youth with both scholarly and practical merit. Methods: This session will

begin with a 20 minute Introduction to the history and science behind mindfulness training, followed by a guided,

interactive 35 minute learning experience introducing examples of mindfulness practice appropriate for small

group work within the school setting. Practice implications: By attending this session pediatric therapists will be

introduced to mindfulness practice an important tool for personal and professional development, with guided


discussion and hands‐on learning activities incorporated to illustrate how this body of knowledge can be

incorporated within the class or small group setting. Conclusions: Mindfulness training is an emergent area of OT

practice that addresses social and mental determinants of health, important for those working with children and

youth. Small group school based programming provides a unique opportunity for OTs to advance mental health

across a broad population of children.

S49 Sensory processing and quality of life for persons with multiple sclerosis


Melissa Colbeck (Health Sciences Centre, Winnipeg) [email protected]


Introduction: In 2014, the MS Society conducted a national Research Priorities Discussion, where clients clearly

voiced the need for interventions that improve quality of life in a timely manner. Consequently, the investigator

responded using a sensory processing framework to address fatigue and cognition, two of the most common

reasons for referral to occupational therapy at the MS Clinic. Objectives: To describe how sensory preferences,

cognition and fatigue relate to variances in quality of life using data from Adolescent/Adult Sensory Profile (AASP),

the Modified Fatigue Impact Scale (MFIS), the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA), and the RAND‐36.

Methods: The investigator is using a cross‐sectional design asking people living with MS to complete the AASP,

MFIS, MoCA and RAND‐36. Demographic and functional data from the Health Utility Index (HUI) will be collected.

Power calculation for a regression model with quality of life as the outcome, based on three predictors,

established a minimum sample size of 40 for the purpose of statistical analysis. Practice Implications: Describing a

relationship between sensory processing preferences, fatigue and cognition helps identify innovative assessment

and treatment potential for clinical practice. By comparing all three factors in terms of quality of life, findings can

inform sensory, fatigue and cognitive intervention strategies to fostering hope and engagement for clients.

Conclusions: Statistical analysis to be completed. Anecdotally, clients express that sensory strategies have

improved symptom management, increased quality of life, and renewed hope in the face of an unpredictable,

chronic, and progressive disease with no cure and very few treatment options.

S50 Private Practice Occupational Therapy in British Columbia: Supply and Demand


Catherine Lynch [email protected] Tiffany Kobbero, Giovanna Boniface, Susan Forwell


Introduction. The prevalence of OTs working in private practice in once Canadian province rose 2.4% in just 4 years

to 25.7% in 2012. Unfortunately, planning processes used to determine manpower needs for OT in this province

overlook this growing sector largely as a result of inadequate information related to the current and future

demands. Objectives. This study aims to provide information on the current supply, demand and workforce needs

for private practice OTs, and the factors influencing the private sector employment cycle. Methods. Private

practice OTs and employers of private practice OTs complete a 10 minute online survey that collects workplace

information, supply and demand needs, and support for new private practice OTs. To ensure the greatest

response, recruitment strategies for both practitioners and employers include online notifications, announcements

at relevant events, and snowball sampling. Analysis includes descriptive statistics and grouping text data. Results.

Barriers and facilitators for private practice OTs are identified as well as projected movement in/out of private

practice. The employers identify current and future supply and demand needs for private practice OTs.

Conclusions. The results of this study will be used to shape the future of occupational therapy workforce needs in

this province by filling a knowledge gap related to human resource planning for occupational therapists in the

private sector. Information from this study will be shared with the Ministry of Advanced Education (responsible for

health human resource planning), the local university, provincial association, and other key stakeholders.

S51 Improving Standardization of Driving Screening in Mental Health



Alicia Carey (Saskatoon Health Region) [email protected]


Introduction: In this province, Occupational Therapists (OTs) are required by law to report concerns regarding a

client's driving ability to authorities. In acute mental health, this is challenging due to the fluctuating nature of a

mental illness, psychosocial factors, as well as the impact that medications may have on driving abilities. Objective:

To develop a standard process for the identification of a mental health client's deficits in relation to driving. The

goal is the development of a tool to be used by OTs, based on research and current practice, to provide consistent

and reliable recommendations. Methods: Current practices were surveyed nationally, by requesting information

from practitioners in the field. A literature review was conducted to determine best practice, yielding no published

tools. Interdisciplinary engagement included consulting OT driving specialists, pharmacists and psychiatrists.

Results: The survey resulted in responses from 20 OTs and 3 psychiatrists, and highlighted the reliance on OTs to

make driving recommendations. A tool was developed, categorizing psychosocial, cognitive, and physical factors,

including psychotropic medications, into "green", "amber", and "red" scores. The process of inviting feedback from

the OT community (delphi technique) prior to field trials is underway. A 3 month trial in an acute mental health

hospital will follow to determine its validity and reliability. Conclusions: This tool has the potential to be useful in

standardizing the screening and assessment of driving abilities and recommendations with acute mental health

clients. It will assist in protecting client's driving privileges, while ensuring public safety on the roads.

S52 Developing a Measure of Evidence‐Informed Professional Thinking


Angela Benfield (University of Wisconsin‐Milwaukee) [email protected]


Introduction: Competence in professional practice arises from “the habitual and judicious use of communication,

knowledge, technical skills, clinical reasoning, emotions, values, and reflection in daily practice for the benefit of

the individual and community being served” (Epstein & Hundert, p.226). Although professional coursework

increases EBP skills of students, post fieldwork students demonstrate loss of EBP skills (Crabtree, Justiss, &

Swinehart, 2012 [1]). The ability of schools to understand the skills of field work supervisor and/or practicing

therapists to assess their specific core skills is critical in order to improve the outcomes of our clients. Objectives:

To share the psychometric properties of the Measure of Evidence‐Informed Professional Thinking (EIPT).

Approach: This presentation will provide the rationale for the model of EIPT, the steps in developing a Measure of

EIPT, and report the psychometric properties of the Measure of EIPT using modern test theory (Rasch Analysis).

Practice Implications: The model of evidence‐informed professional thinking highlights the habits of the mind and

actions that master clinicians use in developing interventions. A reliable and valid measure will allow for the

identification of clinicians who exhibit the habits of mind and behaviors of master clinicians. Conclusions:

Occupational therapists need to have a reliable way to assess how they integrate clinical reasoning and best

evidence into their local settings. This measure may help them identify strengths and weaknesses.

S53 The Journey to Create Occupational Therapy Document Standards and Guidelines


Christine Fleming (Saskatchewan Society of Occupational Therapists) [email protected]

Paper presentations : Administration Health Policy, Non‐specific to Client Group

Introduction: In early 2011, our provincial Occupational therapy regulatory body received questions from clinicians

around cessation of practice and retention of health records. Regulatory policies at that time did not contain

detailed standards and guidelines regarding how health records should be kept. Information was gathered from

across Canada regarding health record retention. The Legislation and Bylaws Committee received permission to

modify an existing guideline document. The local branch of the Pro Bono Students Canada took on our project of

drafting guidelines relevant to our provincial legislation by researching three separate areas: records management

law, cessation of practice, and electronic documentation and non‐health organizations. Objectives: To describe the


process used to create broader practice guidelines and standards for documentation for any provincial

occupational therapist, no matter where they work (eg. health, k‐12 education, community, business or private

practice). Approach: An overview of the process and tools used by the Legislation and Bylaws Committee will be

discussed, including meetings with government, OT stakeholders, and the Pro Bono project with local law students.

Practice Implications: This document enables occupational therapists across the province to be confident in their

record keeping. It has become a valuable resource for clinicians to clarify practice and ensure standards are being

met according to provincial legislation. Conclusion: The document has been well received by occupational

therapists working in health and private practice. The journey continues to explore issues for occupational

therapists working as health professionals within the education system and clarify responsibilities in this area.

Further development of the document is in process.

S54 Evaluation of Safe Patient Handling through Minimal Lift Program Reviews


Trish Lavergne (St. Boniface Hospital, Winnipeg) [email protected] Gillian Ronson, Kim Roer


Introduction: Despite implementation of an evidence‐based Safe Patient Handling Minimal Lift Program in an

urban acute care hospital, health care workers still routinely experience musculoskeletal injuries during patient

handling activities. An understanding of health care workers' real and perceived barriers to engaging in safe patient

handling can direct strategies used to increase safe work practices. Objectives: To gain insight into barriers to safe

patient handling on patient care units, and to provide recommendations to assist in removing these barriers.

Approach: Occupational therapists coordinating a minimal lift program are conducting a program review of patient

care units in the hospital. The review includes in‐depth assessment of equipment availability, patient mobility

assessment documentation, employee training records and injury statistics. Based on bedside observations of

patient handling procedures, occupational therapists provide health care workers with one‐on‐one coaching and

engage them in discussions regarding patient handling decisions. Following completion of each unit review,

findings and recommendations are presented to the manager. Results: Based on reviews completed to date, health

care workers are not consistently following safe patient handling procedures. Barriers to participation are

multifactorial and include availability of patient handling equipment, integration of safe patient handling education

into practice, and written communication of patient mobility status. Follow up of implementation of

recommendations is ongoing. Conclusion: The results of these reviews will assist individuals involved in safe

patient handling to understand person, occupation and environment‐based barriers to full participation in a

minimal lift program. Knowledge of underlying barriers may direct strategies to apply safe patient handling

practices, thereby reducing injuries.

S55 Practice Reviews that Make Sense


Patricia Erlendson (Vancouver Coastal Health, Vancouver) [email protected]


Introduction: Effective feedback on performance should improve staff competency and productivity, however

providing feedback to occupational therapists working in multiple sites and in a variety of programs is difficult due

to the range of practice and the time required completing a thorough practice review. Objectives: To describe how

the situational leadership model helped to frame and categorize the therapists' competency levels and their

feedback requirements. The model assisted in developing the various tools and processes to match the

competency level of the therapists. Approach: The presentation will include a description of the situational

leadership model and the levels of competencies. The strategies and tools developed for the various competency

levels will be discussed as well as a report on the implementation challenges and the outcomes achieved. Practice

Implications: In order to support continuing professional development, occupational therapists must be aware of

both their strengths as well as their limitations. The early identification of learning needs may reduce future

performance issues as well as enhance motivation, commitment to the organization and productivity. Conclusions:


Occupational therapists at various stages of their career development require different types of feedback to plan

their professional development and education plans. Occupational therapists who have opportunities to identify

their development needs in a collaborative fashion should continue to grow successfully in their careers.

S56 A regional initial assessment form: Adoption and early utility results


Marlene Stern (Winnipeg Regional Health Authority, Winnipeg) [email protected] Joanne Brakel, Sheila

Marlow, Christy Ploegman, Amy Collins, Tara Ruchkall, Tamara Weltman


Introduction: With regionalization of health services, processes are being standardized to minimize practice

variations and ensure quality of care. A core process for Occupational Therapy is the initial assessment. A work

group of representatives from 6 hospitals was struck to create a regional Occupational Therapy initial assessment

form (IAF) for acute care, accompanied by a user guide, to replace each sites unique IAF. Objective: To develop and

implement a comprehensive evidence‐informed IAF that includes consistent processes and key data elements;

reflects occupational performance areas; informs care plans for clients presenting to emergency/admitted to

hospital with physical, cognitive, mental and psychosocial issues; and enhances continuity of care and transitions.

Approach: An appreciative inquiry approach was used to guide form development. The authors conducted a

literature review, reviewed local forms and sought IAFs from other jurisdictions. No single form addressed local

requirements. The Functional Status Assessment of Seniors in the Emergency Department (FSAS‐ED) informed

content and structure (Veillette, Demers, Dutil, & McCuskers, 2009). Drafts were piloted at each site and rolled out

by work group members. Occupational therapists were surveyed regarding the ease of adoption and utility.

Practice Implications: Initial reluctance by therapists to abandon local forms was replaced by a strong desire to

learn from, with, and about each other's practice. Clients, staff and students who move between sites now have

the benefit of an evidenced‐informed regional IAF. Conclusion: A regional IAF form provides consistent assessment

information, enhances intra and interprofessional communication, and optimizes care plans and patient flow.

S57 Occupational therapy in the Republic of Ireland: an oral history


Bríd Dunne (University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland) [email protected] Judith Pettigrew, Katie Robinson


Introduction: Researching the history of occupational therapy facilitates understanding of contemporary practice

and beliefs. There is little published literature on the history of the profession in the Republic of Ireland.

Professionally qualified occupational therapists (who trained in the United Kingdom) began to practice in Ireland in

the early 1950s. An occupational therapy course in Ireland (at St. Joseph's College of Occupational Therapy, Dublin)

had its first intake of students in 1963. Objectives: This poster analyses the early years of occupational therapy in

Ireland, based on oral history testimonies of students, practitioners and educators. Methods: A qualitative oral

history methodology was employed. Participants included occupational therapists who worked or studied in

Ireland in the 1960s. Snowball recruitment was used to identify participants, who took part in a recorded

interview. Interview data was analysed thematically. Results: Recruitment and analysis is on‐going; preliminary

findings have been identified. Participants described their occupational therapy education as active and didactic,

and described how theoretical knowledge was embedded in activity‐focused instruction. All participants discussed

the role of activity within occupational therapy; some felt that activity should be central to the profession, while

others suggested that biomedical approaches gave the profession more credibility. Reflecting on their professional

lives as occupational therapists all participants were positive in their evaluations of occupational therapy as a

career. Conclusion: The findings contribute to knowledge about the early years of occupational therapy in Ireland.

The research also demonstrates that debates about the role of occupation are ongoing throughout the

profession's history.


S58 Healthier Workplaces for All of Us through Creative Engagement


Lori Whelan (Toronto ) [email protected] Isabel Fryszberg, Judith Friedland


Introduction: All workers have the right to a healthy work environment. Most workplace programs addressing

wellness rely on physical activities despite growing evidence that creative activities are also effective. Historically,

arts‐based activities have been used by occupational therapists as psychosocial interventions with considerable

success. Experienced in using creative activities to promote wellness in a community mental health setting, the

authors wanted to examine how a similar approach could be used with health care workers. Objectives: 1)

Disseminate the results of our experience leading "creativity workshops" 2) Discuss the role for occupational

therapists in promoting healthy workplaces through creativity. Approach: We will review the literature on the

health‐promoting properties of creative activities in the workplace. We will describe our creativity workshops with

the aid of a 5‐minute film clip on a community mental health program and photos of the workshops with health

care workers and present the evaluation results. We will then facilitate a discussion with our audience in small

groups. Topics will include the personal and organizational importance for creativity, and strategies to promote

creative engagement in the workplace. Practical Implications: Providing creative activities in the workplace can be

an emerging area of occupational therapy practice. Conclusions: Creative activities have similar health benefits for

health care workers and recipients of health care services. Occupational therapists can position themselves as

advocates for the inclusion of creative activities in a Healthy Work Environment strategy and in a variety of

workplace settings.

S59 Preparing Global Citizens: Fostering Readiness for International Clinical Internships


Dena Graner [email protected] Brianna Grove‐White, Debra Cameron, Freida Chavez


Introduction: Students of occupational therapy and other healthcare disciplines are increasingly embarking on

international clinical internships (ICIs). In response, some academic institutions are offering preparatory courses to

prepare students for the challenges of clinical fieldwork abroad. It is vital to understand what steps educators are

currently taking to foster practical, professional and cultural competencies in healthcare students participating in

ICIs, and to what extent students feel prepared by these steps for their experiences abroad. Objectives: To gain an

understanding of how healthcare students participating in an interprofessional global health elective perceive the

program prepares them for ICIs, and whether aspects of the interprofessional global health elective could be

expanded upon to increase student readiness. Approach: Research will employ a qualitative study design; semi‐

structured interviews will be conducted with 10 healthcare students and alumni who participated in an

interprofessional global health elective preparing them for ICI experiences. A qualitative content analysis using a

directed approach will be utilized to analyze the data. Results: Research findings will identify strengths and

weaknesses of the global health elective and reveal topics missing from the current curriculum. Study results will

inform educational resources (such as workshops, seminars and educational literature) as well as ICI organizers

and educators across the globe seeking to foster readiness in students participating in ICIs. Conclusions:

Information gathered from observation and in‐depth interviewing has the potential help to inform course

development and may contribute to the competence of future generations of healthcare students in their clinical

internships abroad.

S60 Group Email Communications Enhance Professional Practice Leaders' Community of Practice


Susan Rappolt (University of Toronto, Toronto) [email protected] Donna Barker



Introduction: Health service organizations typically provide limited paid time, instrumental support or mentorship

to occupational therapy professional practice leaders (PPLs). In addition to quarterly face‐to‐face meetings, a

group of local professional practice leaders have used simple group email communications to gather information

to resolve problems and build clinical and service delivery policies. These emails have been summarized and

archived since 2012. This study examines the archived email summaries to identify the types of questions asked

and responses received, as well as the PPLs' satisfaction with group email communications. Objectives: The results

of this presentation invite discussion on current and future uses of readily available information technologies to

support local and dispersed communities of occupational therapists. Methods: The content analysis of archived

summaries of PPL email communications between 2012 and 2014 is integrated with the analysis of quantitative

and qualitative data submitted by PPL members through an anonymous electronic survey. Results: Through their

use of group email communications, PPLs gather data, references, clinical protocols and support from their peers

to address clinical and service policy issues arising in their own service organizations. Conclusions: Geographically

dispersed occupational therapy practice communities linked by group email may decrease isolation, enhance

knowledge translation and uptake of new evidence, and promote improved clinical and policy practices across

service provider organizations. These findings are interpreted with respect previous evidence on virtual

communities of practice.

S61 Applying Critical‐Ecological Model to the Experience of Military Families


Linna Tam‐Seto (Queen's University) [email protected] Heidi Cramm


Introduction. Occupations are performed in all kinds of environments, which provide context for performance but

also enable occupational choice, influence health and well‐being (Townsend & Polatajko), and impact occupational

justice. The Critical‐Ecological Model (CEM) (Norris, Fancey, Power & Ross, 2013) is a useful way to conceptualize

the impact the various levels of the environment may have on individuals and families and their ability to

participate in occupations. The model is based on the belief that family interactions are influenced by the

transactions that occur among the four distinct environmental systems, each situated within the next creating a

'nesting' effect (Norris, 2014). The transactions between each level facilitate or obstruct healthy human

development and overall functioning of individuals/families (Norris et al., 2013). Objectives. To explore how the

CEM brings clarity to environmental and policy issues that impact occupational justice for military families.

Approach. Outline key aspects of CEM to apply to a case example of a military family to identify opportunities to

promote occupational justice. Practice Implications. Military families are subjected to different types and varieties

of policies that constrain their occupational patterns and trajectories in ways that are distinct from civilian families.

The CEM can provide a framework for occupational therapists to use in practice in order to engage in clinical

reasoning to address issues of occupational justice. Conclusion. This model provides a detailed way of

understanding the impact of all levels of the environment to help occupational therapists realize occupational

injustice.

S62 The ‘Work’ of Workplace Mental Health: An Institutional Ethnography


Cindy Malachowski (University of Toronto, Toronto) [email protected] Katherine Boydell, Peter

Sawchuk, Bonnie Kirsh


Rational: In addition to enormous economic costs, mental health issues in the workplace carry a significant social

burden. Mental health issues are predictive of reduced career goals and unemployment, which can lead to

decreased quality of life and diminished community participation. Objectives: The purpose of this research is to

explore the social relations and institutional practices that coordinate the experience of employees who are both

dealing with episodes of mental ill health, and attempting to stay employed. Methods: This institutional

ethnography was conducted within a large industrial manufacturing plant in Ontario, Canada. Data collected


included 140 hours of ethnographic observations, 17 participant interviews, and a textual analysis of relevant

organizational policies and procedures. Results: We explicate three institutionally organized processes that

coordinate the experiences of employees with mental health issues: 1) employees’ work of managing and

negotiating episodes of mental illness; 2) managers’ administrative work of maintaining privacy and confidentiality;

and 3) the administrative work of authorizing illness. Conclusions: We explicate how current practices do not

accommodate for the fluctuating nature of mental health issues, and how the institutional processes for taking

time away from work for an illness inadvertently restricts employees from attending to their mental health. This

has implications for occupational therapists on both intervention and policy levels.

S63 Effects of service dogs on manual wheelchair users' occupations


Claude Vincent (Laval University, Quebec city) [email protected] Dany Gagnon, François Routhier,

Hélène Corriveau, Michel Tousignant, Lise Poissant, Frédéric Dumont, Valérie Martin‐Lemoyne

Community, Adult Physical Health

Rationale: The presence of pain and early degeneration limb affect the majority of the manual wheelchair users

with a lesion of spinal cord injury (SCI). An alternative to offset the excessive use of the upper limbs is to use a

service dog. Objective: Determine the effects of the use of a service dog on the skills, the human environment and

occupations in people who have suffered a traumatic cause (SCI) and using a manual wheelchair. Methods: A

quasi‐experimental study was realised to evaluate clients before and after training with service dog (0, 3, 6 and 9

months). A total of 17 participants have been recruited (21 expected). The intervention is to lead users with their

dogs to the Mira Foundation for 19 days. Main outcome measures are obtained from questionnaires and

standardized tests: intensity to the effort, pain in shoulders, psychosocial impact of assistance dog, degree of

satisfaction with the use of the dog and the services received, level of skills in a wheelchair, distance, level of

achievement of personal goals of autonomy and participation (Canadian Occupational Performance Measure).

Results: The main outcome measures give an overview of the actual effects of the dog on the ability to mobilize,

without human help and pain, in some contexts and occupations. Conclusions: Results will be used to support the

decision‐making process of the clinicians, managers and policy makers by providing evidence relating to the

advantages/disadvantages and real benefits from the use of a service dog, as an assistive technology.

S64 Presidential Address & Closing Ceremony / Discours de la présidente et cérémonie de fermeture

Saturday 15:15‐16:00 Room/ Salle : West Ballroom Special event/ Événements spéciaux

Lori Cyr will provide a Presidential Address that will inspire and motivate us to move forward and embrace social

justice as a key element of our professional practice and personal lives.

The CAOT 2015 Conference Host Committee will carry on the tradition of passing on the conference suitcase to

next year’s committee. CAOT 2016 Conference will be held in Banff, AB.

Mme Lori Cyr prononcera un discours présidentiel qui nous inspirera et nous motivera à aller de l’avant en

incorporant la justice sociale dans notre pratique professionnelle et notre vie personnelle.

Le comité organisateur du Congrès 2015 de l’ACE poursuivra la tradition qui consiste à remettre la valise du

congrès au comité de l’an prochain. Le Congrès 2016 de l’ACE aura lieu à Banff, au Alberta.

Saturday,May30samedi,le30mai&/etSundayMay31dimanche,le31maiPost‐conference workshop, Saturday, May 30 16:00‐18:00 & Sunday, May 31 8:30‐16:30

CarFit Event Technician & Coordinator Training

Presenter: Elin Schold Davis

caot conference 2015 congrès de l'ace winnipeg may 27-30

Documents