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Date Completed
Spring 2026
Abstract
The role for occupational therapy is clear in the separate realms of community-dwelling older adults, fall prevention, and mental health. However, there was an evident need for occupational therapy at the intersection of all three for the low vision population. The purpose of this program development capstone project is to develop and implement an accessible, client-centered, multifaceted fall prevention community-based program to enhance safety, promote independence, and increase well-being of older adults with low vision at Portsmouth Senior Activity Center. An extensive literature review, interviews, surveys, and observations were used to identify the needs of this population. The implementation of this program at PSAC consisted of three main different components. First, a weekly fall-prevention exercise and education group for individuals with low vision. An 8-week protocol was developed to support the sustainability of this program. Second, a weekly support group for any individual at PSAC with vision loss. An 8-week protocol was developed to support sustainability. Lastly, the development of a Portsmouth senior resource guide to promote community access and participation among PSAC members. The COPM, TUG, 30 Second Sit to Stand, GDS, and satisfaction surveys were used to measure the effectiveness of this program. The outcomes supported that the program was effective in enhancing the safety, independence, and well-being of older adults with low vision. Additionally, the satisfaction surveys proved that the Portsmouth senior resource guide was effective in meeting the needs of the site.
Document Type
Capstone
First Advisor
John Wilcox
Department or Program
Occupational Therapy
Recommended Citation
Domingos, Ellen C., "Enhancing Safety and Well-Being Among Older Adults with Low Vision: A Community-Based Fall Prevention Program" (2026). OTD Capstones. 13.
https://scholars.unh.edu/otd_capstones/13