Document Type

Capstone

Abstract

The transition from adolescence to adulthood for individuals with intellectual disabilities (ID) can be especially challenging due to intellectual and adaptive deficits. Without adequate support and guidance throughout this transition, these individuals are not able to maximize their independence and participation with essential occupations including post-secondary education, employment, and community participation. Occupational therapists (OT) use a holistic and client-centered approach and specialize in adapting the environment and/or the task to meet the specific needs of the person to promote independence and full participation in desired occupations. The current trend in transition programming displays an underutilization of OT support. Increasing OT involvement in the development and implementation of transition programs is essential to best support these individuals. The purpose of this study is to educate OT practitioners on the barriers faced by current transition programs, the need for OT support within these programs, and to advocate for and promote the involvement of OTs in transition programs. Practitioners participated in an educational presentation and forum with a pre- and post-survey which demonstrated an overall increase in knowledge regarding the needs of young adults with ID during the transition to adulthood. The comparative results also show how the specialized skill set of occupational therapy can support the development and implementation of these transition programs. The review of current literature and results of the educational session provided reveal OT involvement in transition programming to be an emerging area of practice and one that could have significant impact on the successful transition to adulthood for those with special needs.

Publication Date

5-1-2023

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