Abstract
The study explored OTs’ perspectives using task-oriented training among minority populations with mild upper extremity deficits poststroke.
Primary Author and Speaker: Maricruz Robles
Additional Authors and Speakers: Adriana Alvarez, Brad Foster, Samantha Newtoff, Madelyn Tepe
Contributing Authors: Eron Bozec
Task-oriented training (TOT) demonstrates the ability to improve upper extremity (UE) function in post-stroke individuals (Choi, 2022; Kuo et al., 2023). However, the TOT literature lacks minority representation. The study explored occupational therapists (OTs) perspectives on implementing TOT for minority adults with mild UE deficits post-stroke, the impact on motor ability, cultural relevance, and occupational participation. The qualitative study incorporates Photovoice, a form of participatory action research. Participants were recruited via social media posts and instructed to take photos reflecting their research question interpretation. Participants completed semi-structured questions using the PHOTO method Amos et al. (2012) outlined. Interview transcripts were coded according to the qualitative methods by Braun & Clarke (2006), and matching codes were merged to develop themes. Two themes identified include Empowerment and Independence and Cultural Relevance. Results indicate OTs incorporate motivating and culturally relevant items and activities, TOT programs flexibility, and the importance of UE function. As an integral part of their interventions to promote UE motor function and occupational participation, TOT allows OTs to consider the client’s culture and integrate relevant concepts into their interventions.
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Choi, W. (2022). The effect of task-oriented training on upper-limb function, visual perception, and activities of daily living in acute stroke patients: A pilot study. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 19(6), 3186. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19063186
Kuo, L.-C., Yang, K.-C., Lin, Y.-C., Lin, Y.-C., Yeh, C.-H., Su, F.-C., & Hsu, H.-Y. (2023). Internet of things (IoT) enables robot-assisted therapy as a home program for training upper limb functions in chronic stroke: A randomized control crossover study. Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, 104(3), 363–371. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.apmr.2022.08.976