Date of Award

4-2025

Degree Type

Capstone Project

Degree Name

Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD)

Department

Occupational Therapy

First Advisor

Christine Below

Second Advisor

Holly Grieves, OTD, OTRL

Abstract

This Doctoral Capstone Experience (DCE) focused on gaining advanced clinical practice skills in the field of low vision occupational therapy (OT) and developing accessible educational handouts for clients receiving low vision services through VisABLE Solutions in Kalamazoo, Michigan. The project addressed the gap in awareness and education within low vision rehabilitation which is an underrepresented area of OT practice.

The DCE’s objectives were met and implemented by the end of 14 weeks. This included increasing clinical knowledge in low vision conditions and OT evaluation and intervention while also addressing the needs of the site. These included creating accessible handouts for client and caregivers, designing a modifiable electronic evaluation form, and establishing low vision support groups. All handouts were developed with accessibility features and organized into the digital repository for long-term use, the evaluation tool was adopted by the site mentor, and three low vision support groups were established in retirement communities around the Kalamazoo area.

This DCE contributes to the field of OT by emphasizing the value of low vision rehabilitation in enhancing occupational performance and quality of life. It also highlights the critical role of occupational therapists in providing client-centered care for individuals with low vision while offering tools and resources that can be utilized across practice settings.

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