Date of Award

4-2025

Degree Type

Capstone Project

Degree Name

Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD)

Department

Occupational Therapy

First Advisor

Stephanie Zukowski

Second Advisor

Holly Grieves, OTD, OTRL

Abstract

Adaptive skiing is a subset of adaptive sports and recreation that refers to any modification to downhill ski equipment to allow people with disabilities to participate. Adaptive skiing falls into the realm of occupational therapy (OT) because of its focus on meaningful participation in leisure and sport occupation. The purpose of this doctoral capstone experience (DCE) was to use occupational therapy-based principles and knowledge to promote leadership and program development within an established adaptive ski program at the Breckenridge Outdoor Education Center (BOEC) in Breckenridge, Colorado. Objectives addressed during this DCE include addressing burnout prevention for program staff, updating training curriculum for volunteers, and increasing knowledge of related accessible opportunities for participants. All objectives were completed with positive feedback from BOEC staff and volunteers, and burnout prevention initiatives were ranked with varying levels of effectiveness. Overall this project demonstrates the positive collaboration between OT and adaptive ski programming, and suggests that future collaborations may be beneficial for all involved.

Download

Share

COinS