Date of Award

2026

Document Type

Scholarly Project

Degree Name

Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD)

Department

Occupational Therapy

First Advisor

Dr. Anne Haskins

Abstract

Background: Access to services does not guarantee participation. Youth with disabilities, particularly in rural communities, continue to experience disparities in postsecondary outcomes related to employment, education, and independent living. While transition services are available, barriers related to awareness, coordination, and usability limit effective engagement. These challenges highlight a gap between service availability and access within rural systems and contribute to reduced participation outcomes.

Purpose: The purpose of this scholarly project was to develop an occupational therapy– informed, advocacy-driven approach to improve access to and navigation of transition services for youth with disabilities in rural communities.

Methodology: A multi-method, iterative approach was used for this scholarly project. A literature review and needs assessment were conducted to identify gaps in service access, coordination, and awareness. Stakeholder consultation, observations, and informal interviews informed the development of project components. Guided by the Canadian Model of Occupational Participation (CanMOP), three interconnected scholarly products were developed: (1) a literature review and needs assessment, (2) a plain-language resource guide with multimedia supports, and (3) a grant proposal and rural dissemination article. Video materials were evaluated using the Patient Education Materials Assessment Tool (PEMAT) to assess understandability and actionability.

Results: The outcomes of this work include the development of an accessible resource guide and supporting videos designed to improve usability and navigation of transition services for students, families, and educators. Dissemination materials were also developed to support viii sustainability and systems-level implementation. PEMAT evaluation indicated strong accessibility and clarity of multimedia components, with high understandability and moderate actionability.

Conclusion: Improving accessibility and communication of existing services may enhance participation outcomes without requiring the development of new programs. Findings support the role of occupational therapy in addressing contextual barriers, promoting health literacy, and advancing advocacy efforts to improve transition outcomes for youth with disabilities in rural settings.

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