Faculty Advisor(s)
Lori Charney
Files
Abstract
A unique diabetes prevention program was developed by an OT doctoral candidate to run in a non-traditional format in a school-based setting. The implementation of this program aimed to enhance students' understanding of diabetes through occupation-based interventions and health education. The program was conducted with 8th-grade students and focused on developmental skills suitable for this age level. The program utilized hands-on activities to enhance participation and promote carryover. Diabetes prevention has become an increasing area of health promotion as the condition continues to pose challenges within the adolescent population, becoming an emerging health problem. This incurable chronic disease has many long-term adverse effects on the lifespan (Shen, X., & Shen, X., 2019). The role of OT in this area is to provide “intervention intended to promote health, well-being, and participation” (AOTA, 2020, p.24). OT’s scope of practice was utilized at the group and population levels to enhance the health and well-being of those participating. OT's distinct value was used through the provision of education, preventive strategies, health promotion strategies, maintenance techniques, and environmental adaptations to support individuals at risk of developing diabetes. These areas were addressed through meaningful activities, and everyday tasks and habits were utilized to create positive changes. The program demonstrated great success as student outcomes indicated that 94% of participants identified a nutritious meal to support learning, 82% of participants correctly identified high blood sugar as a risk factor, and over 95% of students identified the importance of exercise in preventing diabetes.
Publication Date
2025
Document Type
Poster
Department
Occupational Therapy
Keywords
diabetes, health promotion, middle school population, occupational therapy, doctoral project
Disciplines
Medicine and Health Sciences | Occupational Therapy | Rehabilitation and Therapy
Creative Commons License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-No Derivative Works 4.0 International License.
Recommended Citation
Milling, Abrielle, "Preventing Diabetes in At-Risk Youth" (2025). Entry Level Occupational Therapy Doctoral Capstone Projects Class of 2025. 6.
https://digitalcommons.misericordia.edu/otd_capstone2025/6