Document Type
Presentation
Publication Date
8-30-2024
Faculty Mentor
Nancy E. Carson
Abstract
Background: A person with Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) or Intellectual disability (ID) may encounter internal barriers to public transportation modes including executive functioning. These may include challenges in initiation, planning, topographical orientation, waiting, and selecting correct embarkment transfers trains and buses. Additionally, the whole person journey is negatively impacted by sensory overload from light, sounds, crowded spaces, and impaired regulation strategies.
Purpose: The purpose of this quality improvement project is to mitigate these challenges of internal barriers inhibiting transit needs within this population by developing and dispersing a transportation education video tool. These efforts aim to promote optimal transportation engagement that will in turn increase community-based participation and self-efficacy.
Methods: Feedback from surveys was used in development of the final video tool. Initially, a two pilot video module was dispersed and feedback was collected to gain knowledge and understanding to increase IADL engagement within this population. The findings were analyzed and subsequent videos were enhanced accordingly. In the videos an emphasis was placed on methods to decrease any anxiety before embarkment. Additionally, another supplementary series of video modules were developed using a collaborative approach with participants. These modules focused on communicating a systematic method that introduces sensory regulation strategies to increase independent transportational engagement
Results: Four surveys were distributed with qualitative questions (n= 14). Participants include: 4 neurodivergent adults, 5 supporting staff, and 5 Occupational therapists. Results demonstrated positive outcomes using the video module tool with responses generally stating the desire to utilize the video for future community outings, continue audio and visual cues for each tasks, and to continue to use as a primary tool before trips.
Conclusion: Practical action implemented via a priming video tool with audio and visual cues was used effectively to break down components of task analysis in public transportation navigation. The proper management of sensory overload in the transit environment will increase success in origin to destination.
Recommended Citation
Owens, Victoria Ann, "Development of Transportation Training Modules for Adults with Disabilities to Support Community Mobility" (2024). Entry-Level Occupational Therapy Doctorate - Doctoral Capstone Symposium. 44.
https://medica-musc.researchcommons.org/muscotd-elotd/44