Peschong Doctoral Capstone

Using skills developed in school and throughout my fieldwork experience, I was able to address current and potential concerns with individuals in order to keep them in their homes for as long as possible. I also developed toolkits to address mental health concerns to allow these individuals to participate fully in their everyday lives.  These kits were developed using the Adolescent/ Adult Sensory Profile where I could determine how their bodies responded to sensory stimuli and determine their grouping. Not only did I personalize kits but I generalized kits that the facility can use with future participants.  These kits included adaptive equipment to address dressing, low vision, sensory, and other ADL and IADL concerns.

To gain background information on these strategies I was able to complete a needs assessment and critically appraised topic. For my needs assessment, I was able to interview two professionals who work with older adults. I was able to gain insight into the importance of staying active as we age not only physically but also cognitively. As we age and transition into a different level of care we aren’t always given the same opportunities that we are used to to engage socially and physically. It’s important to find ways to engage that we enjoy to have better adherence.