Document Type
Capstone
Abstract
Occupational therapy (OT) plays an important role in the training of geriatric caregivers to reduce learned dependency and caregiver burden, which can ultimately reduce hospital readmissions. Studies have highlighted the importance of caregiver education and training in promoting independence among geriatric patients, but OT's role in this area has yet to be explored. Caregivers play a crucial role in the geriatric patient's functional progress at home, so it is essential to educate and train them thoroughly to prevent dependency which may lead to negative patient outcomes, longer recovery times, increased risk of injury or complications, and higher readmission rates. The results of this in-service presentation before and after surveys indicate a need to educate occupational therapy practitioners (OTPs) on the effects of learned dependency on hospital readmissions and strategies to prevent it through caregiver training. Data was collected before and after the virtual presentation and revealed a significant increase in confidence in participants' knowledge related to the role of OT in preventing learned dependency in geriatric patients through caregiver training. Additionally, they became more confident in writing and billing for caregiver training goals. With improved confidence, OTPs can create goals for caregivers at the start of care to assist the patient with becoming more self-sufficient in their daily activities. In the future, it would be beneficial to provide this in-service to a larger-scale hospital system and skilled nursing facilities where practicing OTPs will have the potential to make the most impact on the older adult population.
Publication Date
4-2024
Recommended Citation
DeDiemar, Anna, "Occupational Therapy's Role in Preventing Geriatric Learned Dependency through Caregiver Training" (2024). MOT Student Capstones. 3.
https://riches.cabarruscollege.edu/mot-student-capstones/3
