MAOT 2007 Conference

MAOT 2006 Conference

MAOT 2005 Conference

MAOT 2004 Conference

MAOT ANNUAL CONFERENCE 2005 :

Onsite registration available

Participation and Health:  How We Work, How We Live, How We Play

Friday, October 21, 2005

7:30 - 5:00 pm

Westford Regency Inn and Conference Center

Picture from the MAOT Annual Conference 2005

Conference Objective

Acknowledgements

Conference Agenda

Poster Presenters

Congratulations

Exhibitors & Sponsors

Attention School Therapists

Registration Information

SILENT AUCTION TO BENEFIT SCHOLARSHIP FUNDS

PHOTO CONTEST email info@maot.org for more information.......

Conference Objectives

This one-day symposium is designed to provide an opportunity to explore the dimensions of health care and occupational therapy practice.  Sessions will focus on a variety of clinical, administrative, management, research-based, practical, and theoretical areas.

 

At the conclusion of the program, the participants will be able to: 

                         

• Discuss social, political, and economic factors that impact occupational therapy and the public health care system

• Acknowledge and identify innovative practice techniques and research findings

• Describe current opportunities and directions for the future of occupational therapy

• Network with colleagues.

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Acknowledgments  

Conference Committee Co-Chairs:         

Karen Jacobs, Ed.D., OTR/L, CPE,  FAOTA

Jean MacLachlan, MS, OTR/L

Conference Committee Members:

Jacqueline Brennan, OTR/L

Donna Caira, Administrative Manager

Rick Frank, OTR/L

Maria Cole, OTR/L 

Phyllis Samara, OTR/L         

Sheri Purdy,OTR/L

Deborah Yarett Slater, MS, OT/L, FAOTA

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Conference Agenda

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Poster Presenters

Aspergers Syndrome and the Role of OT

Diane Desilets, COTA/L, OTS, Salem State College

 

Developmental Grasp Patterns

Lisa Hally, COTA/L, OTS, Salem State College

 

International Educators in Occupational Therapy

Erica Biggar, Cindy Brown, Pamela Lam, Maria Perez, Mary Sullivan, Beth Levine, Master's Degree Students, Salem State College

 

International Service Learning-Pediatric Occupational Therapy in Russia

Andrea Brown, Alaina Buck, Laura Dumont, Kimberly Nichols, Courtney Machado, Ann Marie Maserati;  Occupational Therapy Students; Worcester State College

 

Low vision and the OT perspective to Understanding Arthritis

Susan Gilberg, COTA/L, OTS, Salem State College

 

Meaning in Stonework as an Occupation:  A Phenomenological Study

Lucy Wolfgang Christie, Graduate Student in Occupational Therapy, Worcester State College

 

Occupational Therapy:  A Look at the Future

Michelle M. Savrann, MHA, OTR/L

 

Oculo-Pharangeal Muscular Dystrophy

Shelley Bernardo, COTA/L, OTS, Salem State College

 

PlayTown: A Universal Playground

Lisa Castonguay; Hannah Sturdivant; Occupational Therapy Students, Worcester State College

 

Rating Parkinsonian Nonverbal Behavior:  A Cross-Cultural Study

Pai-chuan Huang, MS; Linda Tickle-Degnen, Ph.D., OTR/L, FAOTA; Sargent College, Boston University

 

Reliability of a Communication Rating Scale

Kayoko Takahashi, MS; Linda Tickle-Degnen, Ph.D., OTR/L, FAOTA; Sargent College, Boston University

 

School Year Sprouts:  Harvesting Health in the Classroom

Nina Talayco, Emily Zeman; Master’s Degree Candidates, Tufts University, BSOT

 

The Meaning of Occupational in Older Adults

Amy Janvrin, COTA/L, OTS, Salem State College

 

The Role of Vision and the Older Driver

Ray Sullivan, COTA/L, OTS, Salem State College

 

The Spiritual Aspect of Occupational Therapy

Tara Hengeveld, MBA, OTR/L, Springfield College

 

Therapeutic Interventions for the Visually Impaired Child

Sheryl Shedd-Duly, COTA/L, OTS, Salem State College

 

Worcester State College Community-Based Occupational Therapy Initiatives

Crystal Baglini, Kristi Yiles, Jen McGowan, Marlowe Eash, Amy Patricio, Lise Castonguay, Michele Laventure, Hannah Sturdivant; Graduate Students, Worcester State College

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SESSION   I  10:15 a.m. – 11:15 a.m. 

A. Sensory Activities for Emotional Regulation: The Sensory Connection

(Closed)

Presenters: Karen M. Moore, OTR/L and Maureen Quinlivan, OTR/L;

UMASS Memorial Medical Center

Level:  All

 

Participants will learn to use sensory activities designed to help adult patients in emotional crisis. The presenters will demonstrate popular activities and share their experiences using them. Participants will learn how to create a sensory cart with items to alleviate agitation, anxiety, panic attacks, and problems leading to the use of physical restraints. Participants will learn to plan a skill building group featuring sensory activities. Activities are applicable to acute and chronic psychiatric treatment, developmental disability settings, geriatric programs, and substance abuse treatment.

 

Learning Objectives:

• Increased knowledge of sensory activities as a therapeutic medium in mental health

• Learn to create a sensory cart

• Plan a skill building group with sensory activities

B. Consulting and Collaborating with Instructional Assistants-The Complex Relationships

Presenters:  Michelle Brown, MOT, OTR/L, BCP; and Joanne Miller, COTA/L, Worcester Public School

Level: Intermediate

 

School based practice has evolved to inclusive classroom with instructional assistants.  The presenters will demonstrate through lecture, video interviews, and group discussion, the complex relationship that exists between the OT, parent, teacher, child and Instructional Assistant (IA) or Personal Care Assistant (PCA). The OT is working with a third, fourth or fifth party to help resolve any given issue. Video interviews with several IA’s will identify pitfalls and solutions to common problems and develop guidelines for staff training.

 

Learning Objectives:

• Increase participants understanding of the complexity of relationships related to an inclusive classroom

• Develop strategies for conflict resolution and problem solving

• Provide guidelines for staff training

C. Slipping and Sliding:  Strategies for Positioning

Presenter:  Natalie Leland Wiatrowski, COTA/L; University of Massachusetts Boston

Level:  Entry Level

 

Positioning is important for promoting function, quality of life, mobility, and maintaining skin integrity in the adult population.  Occupational therapists have the tools to address the positioning needs of adults across the healthcare continuum. Utilization of creative positioning techniques can be used to address a person’s need within a limited budget. This presentation will address the need for proper positioning, the role of the occupational therapist, evaluation, intervention, and creative inexpensive positioning approaches.

 

Learning Objectives:

• Understand the role of OT in the positioning process in adults

• Understand human anatomy, aging process, and relation to positioning

• Understand the steps of the positioning evaluation process

• Discuss positioning intervention approaches including selection of seating system, cushions, and adaptive devices.

D. History and Development of an Occupational Therapy Organization

Presenter:  Midge Hobbs, MA, OTR/L, Tufts University, Boston School of Occupational Therapy/New England Sinai Hospital.

Level: Entry Level

 

The Network for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender Concerns in Occupational Therapy began in 1992 for the purpose of advancing understanding of sexual orientation. The presentation reviews LGBT issues in health care, identifies how the group has contributed to the profession, and highlights how The Network’s story can help and encourage future therapists to find their voices and become leaders within the profession thereby ensuring continued growth and progress for occupational therapy.

 

Learning Objectives:

• Increase participant awareness of LGBT issues in healthcare

• Encourage therapists to find their voices and enhance leadership

• Promote cultural awareness in occupational therapy practice

E. Infusing the Occupational Therapy Practice Framework into Fieldwork 

Presenter:  Mary Evenson, MPH, OTR/L, Tufts University, Boston School of Occupational Therapy

Level: All 

 

As our profession embraces a world-view of health and functioning through our adoption of the Occupational Therapy Practice Framework (2002), practitioners and students are seeking ways to translate this new perspective into existing health care and educational systems and settings. Goals of providing a client-centered approach in identifying meaningful occupations as well as examining the research literature for guidelines on outcomes and efficacy to inform clinical reasoning are elemental to this process. 

 

Learning Objectives:

• Describe how evidence-based practice and a focus on occupation-based practice are elemental aspects to be included in each fieldwork experience/practice setting.

• Identify common themes that emerge out of the Level II fieldwork midterm review process and the final fieldwork evaluations for an entry-level Masters occupational therapy program

• Apply emerging themes and professional development strategies to support and enhance the learning of others as well as one’s professional competence.

F. Pioneer Practice in a Third-World Country:  Strategies for Success!

Presenter:  Elsie R. Vergara, ScD, OTR, FAOTA, Sargent College, Boston University

Level: All

 

Occupational therapy practice in many parts of the world has not kept pace with evolving practice in more developed countries. Intervention is often traditional and outdated. Although they may acknowledge their need to update, limited training opportunities, resistance to change, and cultural issues hinder professional development. Dr. Vergara will share strategies that during her sabbatical year in Mexico opened up communication, enhanced acceptance/recognition, and prompted willingness to innovate in neonatal practitioners.

 

Learning Objectives:

• Recognize that OT’s from disadvantaged areas may benefit from the expertise and training of therapists from more developed countries

• Identify strategies that may enhance success of pioneers in evolving areas of OT practice in less developed countries

• Recognize the need to respect professional and cultural factors when training peers in other countries

G. Considering Assistive Technology Solutions for Workers with Learning Disabilities

Presenter:  Kristi Voelkerding, BS, COTA/L, ATP, Easter Seals Massachusetts

Level:  Entry Level

 

The impact of learning disabilities is life long and the issues that make schoolwork so challenging also occur in the workplace. The recognition that these learning problems persist into adulthood has resulted in the search for alternative approaches for helping persons with learning problems succeed in the workplace. Tools and strategies that address reading deficits, writing difficulties and organizational skills and memory deficits will be discussed.

 

Learning Objectives:

• Participants will identify at least five low cost modifications to enhance workplace performance

• Participants will learn strategies for modifying standard workplace materials

• Participants will identify basic needs and strategies for supporting workers with learning disabilities

H. School Based Occupational Therapy:  Necessary Knowledge for Entry-Level Practitioners

Presenter:  Jessica Lyne Merkin, OTS, Masters of Science Student, Tufts University, Boston School of Occupational Therapy

Level: Entry Level

 

Essential information for entry-level students and new practitioners to practice in the school domain will be presented. Basic, yet imperative areas of importance for the school-based therapist to integrate into practice will be detailed.

 

Learning Objectives:

• Become familiar with IDEA 1997, Section 504 and their applicability to occupational therapy services

• Become familiar with eligibility requirements for special education and occupational therapy services

• Become familiar with areas of intervention and service delivery models

• Become familiar with the pre-referral, referral processes and the role of collaboration in practice

• Become familiar with the IEP process and the basics of writing functional goals

• Become familiar with the OT’s role in transitioning students with complex health needs

I. University/Community Collaboration in Mental Health

Presenter:  Linda Duncombe, EdD, OTR/L, FAOTA, Sargent College, Boston University and Cindy Barrows, MS, OTR/L, Vinfen Corporation

Level:  All

 

A university-community collaboration resulted in students learning OT skills and issues pertaining to OT in a community mental health setting. During a one year service learning practicum students were able to increase residents' social participation and work on their functional goals, meeting the needs of an otherwise underserved population.

 

Learning Objectives:

• Participants will increase awareness of the steps to create this type of program model

• Participants will learn about the structure of the program, the results of a program evaluation, and dialog about the need for evidence to support OT practice in this context.

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Key Note Address:  Second Step Players

The Second Step Players is a theater troupe comprised of actors, writers, artists, production personnel, musicians, poets and comedians who have psychiatric illnesses such as schizophrenia, depression (including bipolar), obsessive-compulsive disorder and disassociative identity disorders. More than 50 mental health consumers and 25 volunteers make up its ranks.

 

The Second Step Players write and perform original comedy and drama about the experience of being labeled with a mental illness. Such open honesty in front of an audience is empowering and plays an important part in the recovery process. The healing energy of laughter provides a forum for players and audience members to engage in a dialogue about the myths surrounding psychiatric illnesses. Furthermore, the troupe players serve as an inspirational role model for other people with psychiatric disabilities.

 

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SESSION   II   1:45 p.m. -3:15 p.m. 

A. Using an Occupational Therapy Approach to Cataracts

Presenters: Chrys Peralta, OTR/L; and Dr. Indra Mohindra, O.D., MEEI-VRC

Level: Intermediate

 

Occupational therapists are familiar with the classic settings of physical dysfunction, psychosocial dysfunction, and pediatrics. Low vision or vision rehabilitation has become more popular in recent years. The Vision Rehabilitation Center (VRC) at the Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary utilizes occupational therapists in the specialty of vision rehabilitation. Occupational therapists at the VRC evaluate persons with cataracts to determine their areas of need in specific ADL and IADL tasks. Our focus is cataracts-the leading cause of blindness in the world and one of the most successfully treated eye conditions in non-third world countries.      

   

Learning Objectives:

• Describe at least three types of cataracts and their manifestations

• Describe/demonstrate three different adaptive techniques that patients with cataracts might use for performing ADL tasks

• Describe and appropriately select and apply three different magnification systems that patients with cataracts might use for performing IADL tasks.

B. When Children Can’t Write-Adapting Handwriting Programs for Dysgraphia

Presenters:  Michelle Brown, MOT, OTR/L, BCP; Joanne Miller, COTA/L; Worcester Public Schools

Level: Intermediate

 

OT’s will often choose a particular handwriting program to develop skills. After trying the program for several weeks, they realize that for some children, it just won’t work.  This program will show how to address writing in the 10-15% of children who just cannot write and may be dysgraphic. Participants will learn how to modify five different writing programs to integrate into Project Read, Wilson, and Houghton Mifflin reading approaches. 

 

Learning Objectives: 

• Increase awareness of the issue of dysgraphia in children

• Learn to identify children that may be dysgraphic

• Learn to modify writing programs

C. Developing and Using Sensory Rooms/Spaces on Psychiatric Units

Presenter:  Jean MacLachlan, MS, OTR/L, Salem State College

Level:  Intermediate

 

With the proposed DMH regulation changes incorporating the use of individualized sensory-based treatment on psychiatric units and the “trend” of sensory rooms, spaces and carts being discussed, it is important that therapists understand how to effectively plan for the use of sensory spaces. Sensory room design, layout, and physical accommodations for a variety of spaces presented. Information also provided to participants for obtaining inexpensive and easily accessible materials. Current research relating to sensory spaces reviewed.

Learning Objectives:

·         Discuss DMH regulation changes pertaining to sensory-based treatments

·         Learn how to plan for and design economically sound sensory rooms

·         Review current research data pertaining to sensory room effectiveness

D. Ten Easy Ways to Lose Your License or Commit an Ethical Violation

Presenter:  Nancy Lowenstein, MS, OTR/L, BCN; Clinical Assistant Professor, Sargent College, Boston University; Deborah Yarett Slater, MS, OT/L, FAOTA, Practice Associate, Staff Liaison to the Commission on Standards and Ethics, AOTA

Level: All

 

This workshop will help participants understand the roles of the different bodies regulating occupational therapy personnel. Participants will learn which behaviors give rise to the level of a potential legal or ethical violation, how to address or respond to the situation, the resources that are available to assist them, and where to lodge a complaint, if appropriate. Participants will be provided with options to consider when confronting legal and ethical dilemmas and a broad understanding of their professional responsibilities.

 

Learning Objectives:

• Identify the 3 organizations regulating occupational therapy personnel and their scope of responsibility

• Understand the complaint processes, the appropriate body(s) with which to file a complaint and how to seek resources (259 CMR 2.00 - 5.00)

• Recognize issues which could lead to losing your license and/or being the subject of an ethics complaint. (AOTA 2000)

• Recognize one’s professional responsibility in being knowledgeable about and compliant with state licensure law, Certificant Code of Conduct and the Occupational Therapy Code of Ethics (AOTA, 2000)

E. DBT:  A Collaborative Inpatient Group Approach

Presenters:  Kathy Hanlan, MS, OTR/L, Senior Occupational Therapist;

Nancy Peirce, RN; Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center

Level:  All     

   

This presentation will discuss a model for a dialectical behavior therapy inpatient group and the results of two research studies on the efficacy of this group. This project was a collaborative effort between occupational therapy and nursing.  Focus will include: DBT skill selection, group membership criteria and curricula, the development of a patient survey, and beginning research consideration.

 

Learning Objectives:

• Differentiate between a DBT group and a DBT program

• Understand rationale for with DBT skills are most pertinent to an inpatient group

• Develop a group curricula

• Demystify clinical research

F. Lite Tech” Electonic Aids to Daily Living

Presenter:  Peggy Dellea, MS, OT/L; Program Coordinator, Assistive Technology Center Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital

Level:  All

 

Gadgets and gizmos abound that will complete simple tasks such as changing the television channel or turning on the lights that do not involve the high tech, high priced systems. Given the limitations of insurance coverage and device availability, these devices are practical alternatives to enhance independence. This presentation will discuss options ranging from a simple X-10 light switch to a voice-activated remote control that are moderately priced and easy to learn. 

 

Learning Objectives:

• Become familiar with commercially available mid-priced EADLs

• Identify patient needs in terms of access abilities and appliances to be controlled

• Be able to feature-match patients with commercially available systems

G. The Drive Thru Menus for Attention and Strength

Presenter: Tere Bowen-Irish, OTR/L, Owner of All the Possibilities LLC operating as Praxis Occupational Therapy Services

Level:  All

 

This workshop will engage participants in learning how to explain to teachers and staff about children’s basic sensory and strength needs. AS we know, sensory issues within the classroom context can affect how children access their school day. Learn to assist teachers in gaining a new  perspective relating to sensory processing and upper extremity problems that may affect fine motor skills, writing, and gross motor coordination. The workshop will highlight specific exercises to use that can promote a child’s attention and strength. These exercises (seen in a poster format) can be left in the classroom setting for review and practice. Take away ideas from this workshop that can be applied in the least restrictive environment of all, the classroom!  Posters will be available for purchase through Therapro at the conference.

 

Learning Objectives:

• Learn importance of efficient sensory processing during the school day.

• Learn importance of upper extremity strength in regards to fine motor classroom expectations

• Learn about exercises that apply to improving attention and focus within the classroom setting

• Learn exercises that apply to improving upper extremity strength

• Learn where to utilize these exercises to enhance a child’s performance during the school day.

H. State Hospital Discharges:  Measuring Success (Closed)

Presenters:  Laurie Adelstein, MS, OTR/L, Westborough State Hospital; Barbara Lou Fenby, Ph.D., LICSW; Director of Community Services, MetroSuburban Area-DMH; Virginia Allfrey, RN, BSN, Director of Rehabilitation Services, Westborough State Hospital; Edward J. Morrier, LICSW, Social Worker, DMH Metro Suburban Area Office

Level:  Entry

 

In 2002-2003, the Metro-Suburban Area of the Department of Mental Health discharged 122 patients to newly-funded community residential beds. A study that looked at consumer satisfaction and adjustment to community living will be presented. Data was collected by administering a satisfaction survey and using information from assessments of function and risk, demographics, re-hospitalizations and respites, and care-provider data. Factors identified that appeared to relate to satisfaction and adjustment and implications for practice and future planning will be discussed.

 

Learning Objectives:

• Participants will increase awareness of factors that may influence successful community living for individuals with serious mental illness (SMI)

• Participants will be able to identify how data from pre-existing sources can be used to measure effectiveness of a process

• Participants will recognize how occupational therapists can use this information to facilitate successful and satisfying community living for individuals with SMI

Mini Sessions (45 minutes each)

I.  A Qualitative Study of Women’s Occupations in Midlife

Presenters:  Sameera Qureshi, OTS, Carrie Carman, OTS, Amanda Harris, OTS, Lisa Jackson, OTS, and Caryn Mervis, Masters of Science Students in Occupational Therapy, Tufts University, Boston School of Occupational Therapy

Level:  Entry Level

 

The midlife transition is one of several developmental stages that humans experience. This presentation provides an overview of a research study providing important qualitative information about the occupations of a population that has been previously overlooked by occupational therapists. By providing rich, descriptive information about the daily routines of midlife and the role occupations play, this study will ultimately yield beneficial information. This presentation provides valuable insight into how occupations (or adaptations to them) can be used to enhance the quality of life for women during the midlife transition years. Information from this proposal may be used to educate service providers about the life context(s) of this population when evaluating and treating them for other conditions.

 

Learning Objectives:

• Increase participant awareness of the developmental stage of midlife in women

• Appreciate the importance of occupation at the midlife stage of life

• Articulate the findings of this research endeavor

“With Ease” – Adaptive Clothing

Presenters:  Michele Clopper, MS, OTR/L; Disability Case Manager, Harvard University; Barbara Mills, COTA/L, Adaptive Clothing Designer; Tewksbury Hospital DPH

Level:  All

 

Our clothing makes a personal statement.  However for individuals with physical disabilities, these choices are limited.  Clothes can have functionality and style that enhances the individual’s independence. This presentation will highlight these options available to those affected by disability.

 

Learning Objectives: 

• Learn the basics of adapting store purchased clothing

• Appreciate how to facilitate the design process from scratch

• Foster Programmatic implementation     

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SESSION III 3:30 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.

A.  Working with Students with Emotional and Behavioral Disorders

Presenters:  Sharon Ray, Sc.D., OTR/L, Assistant Professor; Mary Alicia Barnes, OTR/L, Fieldwork Coordinator; Tufts University, Boston School of Occupational Therapy

Level: All

 

School-based practitioners indicate that although working with students with emotional and behavioral disorders (EBD) is within the domain of practice, many do not feel appropriately trained (Barnes, et, al., 2003).  This presentation aims to educate and empower practitioners to address the needs of this population.

 

Learning Objectives:

• Learn how provision of mental health services fit under IDEA

• Learn about mental disorders experienced by students and the occupational performance concerns

• Identify frames of reference, evaluation tools and intervention Approaches

B.  The Weighted Blanket:  Use and Research in Psychiatry    

Presenters: Tina Champagne, M.Ed, OTR/L  OT & Group Program Supervisor, Acute Mental Health Inpatient Unit at Cooley Dickinson Hospital & Independent Consultant; Brian Mullen, BS, Graduate Student of Mechanical Engineering at UMASS

Level: All

 

The weighted blanket is a person-centered modality becoming increasingly utilized in acute care psychiatric settings for preventative and crisis prevention purposes. This presentation will explore how the weighted blanket is being used in acute psychiatry, the qualities it provides, and recent research conducted through collaborative projects between Cooley-Dickinson Hospital’s acute psychiatric unit and the UMASS School of Engineering. 

 

Learning Objectives:

• Understand how weighted blankets are being used with mental health consumers

• Recognize the weighted blanket qualities reported as most helpful by normal and mental health populations

• Understand the value of collaborative, inter-disciplinary research     partnerships

C. Climbing Out Of The ADL Rut Utilizing Occupation In Physical Disabilities Settings

Presenters  Bill Shea, OTR/L, Level 3 Clinician; Dan Girard, OTR/L, Level 2 clinician; Fairlawn Rehabilitation Hospital.

Level: Intermediate

 

This presentation will discuss expanding the treatment focus from basic activities of daily living to embracing occupation during treatment sessions.  Over the past years, occupational therapy has strayed away from the roots of our profession due to reimbursement issues, the medical model, and short lengths of stay.  Occupational therapy has lost its focus of having occupation as the center of our intervention. This presentation will discuss the need to embrace occupation, the barriers involved with embracing occupation, and how to