Document Type

Capstone

Abstract

Background Recent studies have raised concern regarding inadequate shade on public playgrounds, leading to an increased risk of sun and heat injury and decreased opportunities for play participation for children. Adequate shade has been shown to be an effective measure to mitigate heat and sun exposure. This Capstone project aimed to positively impact the community of the city of Saluda, North Carolina (NC), by using occupational therapy intervention approaches of promotion, modification, prevention, and education to promote the procurement of adequate shade at the Saluda Elementary School (SES) public playground. Methods This project employed a parent survey to measure attitudes and practice regarding the use of the SES public playground; and an education presentation with a pre- and post-survey for key stakeholders synthesizing research findings while aligning local and state guidelines to promote this modification. Using data from paper and electronic surveys, analysis was conducted using electronic statistical software and calculators to estimate usage factors in the parent population; and to determine accuracy and impact via the stakeholder pre- and post-surveys. Results In setting out to determine usage factors, it was shown that a large percentage of parents utilized the SES public playground approximately 2 to 7 days per month when school was not in session, and that heat and shade were significant factors in their decisions to use the playground. In addition, by providing an evidence-based and community/client-centered approach to occupational therapy interventions, a measurable difference was shown in responses of those key stakeholders towards recognizing the use, frequency, and related factors regarding this public playground; the value of adequate shade on the health and well-being of playground participants; and in planning steps towards effective environmental change. Conclusions Occupational therapy methods including the use of needs assessments, literary research, educational sessions, and pre- and post-test surveys can be effective in measuring community needs, knowledge, practice, opinions, and preferences to integrate the vital components of person (members of the community including children and their caregivers), environment (the public playground), and occupation (play and its co-occupations). In the case of this project, these methods were measurably effective in promoting the well-being of a vulnerable population via advocating for the use of adequate shade at a public playground to promote well-being, increased occupational engagement, and the prevention of injury and disease.

Publication Date

2017

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