This article aims to explore the distinct value of occupational therapy in the community-based cancer survivorship setting through the integration of occupational therapy and health promotion and wellness education into a pre-existing occupation-based group ran by a dietician. As many cancer survivors experience unmet needs, occupational therapists can help address limitations in occupational performance due to symptoms including fatigue, pain, impaired cognition, sleep disturbances, and sexual dysfunction through the use of meaningful activities. This program incorporated occupational therapy and health and wellness education into a cooking class through educational and performance-based sessions. Progress and satisfaction of participants' performance was measured using formative and summative evaluations in the form of surveys and phone interviews. The addition of education regarding energy conservation, compensatory strategies, and stress management into a nutrition course helped cancer survivors increase occupational performance during meal preparation. Sustainability of this project will be dependent on grant funding and further collaboration between the occupational therapist and dietician. The role of occupational therapy was described through a doctoral capstone experience at Cancer Support Community, a non-for-profit facility.

Creator

• VanDeman, LeAnn

Contributors

• Polo, Katie

Publisher

• University of Indianapolis

Language

• en

Identifier

• VanDeman. LeAnn.pdf

Keyword

• Health Sciences

• Occupational Therapy

Date created

• 2018-05-05

Rights statement

• http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/InC/1.0/