Date of Award
2026
Document Type
Scholarly Project
Degree Name
Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD)
Department
Occupational Therapy
First Advisor
Dr. Julie Grabanski
Abstract
Background: Historically, farming is known as a highly laborious job, placing farmers at increased risk for injury. Despite an injury, the farm must continue to be cared for. Although occupational therapy cultivates client-centered care, many therapists have limited knowledge of farming culture and best practice methods to integrate the demands of farming into therapy.
Purpose: The purpose of this scholarly project was to develop an educational guide, Built for the Farm: An Occupation-Based Guide for Therapists Working with Farmers, to support therapists treating farmers. The guide promotes culturally informed, occupation-based strategies to strengthen therapeutic relationships and improve the healthcare experiences of farmers.
Methodology: Guided by the Ecology of Human Performance (EHP), needs were identified through a literature review, on-site needs assessment, and farm-based experiences with farmers.
Conclusion: The guide aims to enhance farmers’ healthcare experience by integrating the culture and task demands of farming into treatment and inform therapists’ overall understanding of agriculture.
Recommended Citation
Haiby, Allison, "THE THERAPY BEHIND THE TRACTOR: AN OCCUPATIONAL THERAPISTS’ GUIDE FOR TREATING FARMERS" (2026). Occupational Therapy Capstones. 727.
https://commons.und.edu/ot-grad/727