Date of Award

4-2025

Degree Type

Capstone Project

Degree Name

Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD)

Department

Occupational Therapy

First Advisor

Tim Barnes

Second Advisor

Holly Grieves, OTD, OTRL

Abstract

This doctoral capstone experience (DCE) and project applied occupational therapy’s (OT) role in positive and healthy aging to the design and implementation of a nature-based activity and education program. Nature-based OT interventions for older adults are supported throughout scientific literature and are of continued importance to address ongoing mental and physical health challenges for the older adult population. This program took place at the Ecumenical Senior Center (ESC), a day center serving primarily underserved older adults in the Kalamazoo, Michigan area. Four interactive group sessions were implemented to explore the physical and mental health benefits of participating in nature activities. At each session, education from current scientific literature was provided with a nature or nature art activity to promote feelings of connectedness to the natural environment and to encourage participation with nature for health benefits. The program resulted in increased feelings of connectedness to nature for one third of participants, acquisition of knowledge and skills related to benefits of nature experiences, and ongoing participation and interest in group nature activities. This project supports OT’s role in providing group interventions for health promotion and maintenance with older adults through nature-based programming.

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