Introduction. Risk Reducing Bilateral Mastectomy (RRBM) is the most effective method for reducin... more Introduction. Risk Reducing Bilateral Mastectomy (RRBM) is the most effective method for reducing risk of cancer in women with the BRCA mutations. There’s a paucity of knowledge regarding the broad implications of the surgery. The study aims to investigate RRBM’s effect on women’s activities of daily living, physical function, body image and wellbeing. Method. Participated 46 BRCA mutation's carriers (n=22 underwent RRBM; n=24 control group). Participants answered online questionnaires: QDASH, PWI, WHODAS, BIS and MPQ. Results. Women who underwent RRBM reported a decline in body image and intimacy. However, they described improved health-related wellbeing and less fear from cancer than the control group. Women felt that there was insufficient support in the complex physical and functional recovery from the surgery. Conclusion: Most women felt the advantages of the surgery; however, it appears that more professional assistance focusing on daily living and physical function could be valuable in the recovery process.
International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, Sep 2, 2015
This study aimed to assess whether the perception of quality of life (QOL) and subjective well-be... more This study aimed to assess whether the perception of quality of life (QOL) and subjective well-being (SWB) of young adults with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) is affected by participation in a comprehensive program. Participants included 25 young adults with ASD who participated in the "Roim Rachok Program" (RRP), where they were trained to become aerial photography interpreters. Following the training period, they served in a designated army unit where they practiced their newly acquired profession. The participants filled out two questionnaires, (a) Quality of Life (QOL-Q) and (b) Personal Well-being Index (PWI), at three points of the intervention: (a) before the course, (b) at the end of the course, and (c) six months after integrating in the designated army unit. Wilcoxon signed ranks tests were used to assess the differences between the reported QOL and SWB at the three points of time. The results suggest that there were no significant differences at the end of the course, compared to its beginning. However, there were significantly improved perception of QOL and SWB during the period between the end of the course and six months after starting work. The results of this study highlight the importance of tailored vocational programs that are adapted to the unique needs and strengths of individuals with ASD.
... issues: children in a high tech world Sheedy, J. 2001 Growing up with interactive media: what... more ... issues: children in a high tech world Sheedy, J. 2001 Growing up with interactive media: what we ... Teachers' tools for the 21st century: a report on teachers' use of technology NCES 2000-102 ... According to the Media in the Home annual telephone survey in 2000, based on parent ...
Work-a Journal of Prevention Assessment & Rehabilitation, 1998
This research compared the level of reported pain between women workers with high workload (main ... more This research compared the level of reported pain between women workers with high workload (main work involved typing) and women workers with low workload (various office work where typing was not the main task). The research examined the relationship between reported pain of upper extremities (UE) and the following variables: physical strain exerted during typing on a computer keyboard, extra-work strain on UE, bio-demographic variables, psychosocial variables, and ergonomic variables. Participants were 60 women who worked in offices, divided into two groups. The index group included women whose main work involved typing (high workload: M=6.16 h of typing per day), and the control group did various office work where typing was not the main task (low workload: M=3.23 h of typing per day). The level of pain, physical strain, and data concerning bio-demographic variables, psychosocial variables and ergonomic variables was assessed by a self-reported questionnaire. The results suggested that there was a significant difference between workers with high and low typing workloads. Workers with higher typing load reported higher levels of pain. There was a significant positive correlation between level of reports of pain and levels of physical overload at work, and extra-work strain on UE both among workers with high and low workloads. It was also found that levels of pain correlated significantly with bio-demographic variables (age and number of children) and psychosocial variables (managerial responsibilities) among low workload workers only. The research on pain of UE indicates that pain may be affected by a multi-factorial nature of a work-related environment which includes physical strain exerted during typing on a computer keyboard, extra-work strain on UE, bio-demographic variables and psychosocial variables.
Long-term disabilities are common among stroke survivors and are associated with reduced quality ... more Long-term disabilities are common among stroke survivors and are associated with reduced quality of life (QoL). Research on occupation-based intervention for chronic stroke survivors is sparse. The objective of this study was to examine the effectiveness of neurofunctional treatment (NFT), an occupation-based client-centred treatment approach, for attaining individualised goals in chronic stroke survivors. A pilot randomised control study with a crossover design was employed. The participants were randomly allocated to treatment or control groups, with the intervention replicated for the control group after three months. Twenty three community dwelling stroke survivors, at least one year post-stroke attending a community day centre participated in this study. The 12-week intervention included NFT with individualised occupational goal setting. The treatment methods included task-specific training, environmental or task adaptation, assistive devices, motivation recruitment, and advocacy. Significant differences between the groups were found on occupational performance measures, but not on QoL. These findings were replicated after crossover for the control group. The results support the efficacy of NFT for attaining occupational goals in individuals in the chronic stage after stroke, yet further research is needed to validate these findings in additional treatment settings and over time.
American Journal of Occupational Therapy, Aug 1, 2021
Date Presented Accepted for AOTA INSPIRE 2021 but unable to be presented due to online event limi... more Date Presented Accepted for AOTA INSPIRE 2021 but unable to be presented due to online event limitations. The goal of the study was to evaluate the long-term implications of breast cancer (BC) on upper extremity function, participation, and perceived quality of life (QoL) among Israeli women and examine the utilization of OT services in the rehabilitation process. The study included two steps: (1) an online survey and (3) face-to-face in-depth evaluation. Women with BC reported a wide range of impairments that are within the domain of OT, but only a small minority received OT services. Primary Author and Speaker: Danit Langer Contributing Authors: Hagit Magen, Shlomit Tendler, and Asnat Bar-Haim Erez
American Journal of Occupational Therapy, May 1, 2012
OBJECTIVE. We studied the internal consistency reliability and construct validity of the new Dyna... more OBJECTIVE. We studied the internal consistency reliability and construct validity of the new Dynamic Lowenstein Occupational Therapy Cognitive Assessment-Geriatric Version (DLOTCA-G), a dynamic version of the Lowenstein Occupational Therapy Cognitive Assessment-Geriatric Version (LOTCA-G), and examined the properties of the mediation system. METHOD. Participants included 61 clients hospitalized after stroke in three rehabilitation centers (mean age 5 77.6 yr, standard deviation [SD] 5 6.2) and 52 healthy control participants (mean age 5 77.8 yr, SD 5 6.4). All participants were assessed with the DLOTCA-G. RESULTS. Internal consistency reliability showed moderate to high a coefficient levels in all domains (as 5 .68-.85) except the Memory domain (a 5 .26). Both groups benefitted from mediation, but the stroke clients needed more concrete levels of mediation (Levels 3-5). CONCLUSION. The addition of mediation to the LOTCA-G is effective in providing insights into clients' cognitive status and learning potential. Our findings are similar to the results of the validation study for the DLOTCA for adults and support the use and benefits of the dynamic version.
Physical & Occupational Therapy in Geriatrics, 2004
The aim of this study was to validate the Loewenstein Occupational Therapy Cognitive Assessment (... more The aim of this study was to validate the Loewenstein Occupational Therapy Cognitive Assessment (LOTCA-G) for individuals with dementia compared to healthy elderly in order to provide a starting point for intervention. Subjects included 30 participants with dementia and 43 healthy elderly. Results showed significant differences between the groups on all LOTCA-G areas. Most subtests differentiated between individuals with mild dementia (MMSE 20–23) and moderate dementia (MMSE 16–19), suggesting that the test is sensitive to levels of dementia. Significant moderate correlations were found between LOTCA-G areas and MMSE score. In conclusion, the LOTCA-G is recommended for elderly with dementia to obtain a detailed cognitive profile beyond the MMSE cut-off score, enabling intervention planning.
American Journal of Occupational Therapy, Aug 1, 2020
Date Presented 03/26/20 The goal of the study was to evaluate the long-term implications of breas... more Date Presented 03/26/20 The goal of the study was to evaluate the long-term implications of breast cancer on upper-extremity function, participation, and perceived quality of life among Israeli women and to examine the utilization of OT services in the rehabilitation process. The study included two steps: (1) an online survey and (2) face-to-face in-depth evaluation. Women with breast cancer reported a wide range of impairments that are within the domain of OT, but only a small minority received OT services. Primary Author and Speaker: Danit Langer Additional Authors and Speakers: Asnat Bar-Haim Erez Contributing Authors: Hagit Magen, Shlomit Tendler
Work-a Journal of Prevention Assessment & Rehabilitation, May 16, 2023
BACKGROUND: Studies found that women with breast cancer struggle with significant physical and me... more BACKGROUND: Studies found that women with breast cancer struggle with significant physical and mental challenges that affect their participation in daily living, social and work activities. Although women express their need for rehabilitation, in Israel there has been scant research on the nature of these needs. OBJECTIVE: To examine the implications of breast cancer for Israeli women in terms of their quality of life, body function, activities and participation in all facets of life, including work. METHODS: The sample was composed of women diagnosed with breast cancer. The data were collected through: (a) an online electronic survey assessing cancer-related quality of life (QoL), function and disability, fatigue and sensory-motor functions, (n = 120) followed by (b) face-to-face interviews and assessments (n = 20), and a healthy control group (n = 61). RESULTS: Women with breast cancer reported significantly lower QoL compared to the healthy control group. They reported higher levels of disability in areas such as, cognition, mobility, upper extremity, as well as overall difficulties in self-care, doing routine household activities and return to work. Roughly one-third of the women did not return to work. Interestingly, our sample did not perceive a decline in terms of their social support or networks, the women stated that family and social support were major enabling factors. CONCLUSION: The results show that breast cancer has short and long-term functional effects on most facets of these women’s life. The women’s social support system served as an enabling factor. Many women expressed their frustration at the lack of rehabilitation services for their condition and needs in Israel.
American Journal of Occupational Therapy, Jul 1, 2015
Date Presented 4/16/2015 An accessible and adapted computerized version of the Personal Wellbeing... more Date Presented 4/16/2015 An accessible and adapted computerized version of the Personal Wellbeing Index—Intellectual Disability (PWI–ID), which is a known subjective well-being (SWB) measure, was developed and validated for individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities. Both the assessment tool and research data are presented for this population and their caregivers.
BACKGROUND Cross-national comparisons of students' school quality of life (QoL) can support o... more BACKGROUND Cross-national comparisons of students' school quality of life (QoL) can support our understanding of factors that may affect students' health and well-being at school. OBJECTIVE To compare Canadian and Israeli students' perception of their school QoL. METHODS The Quality of Life at School Questionnaire (QoLS) was administered to 1231 students in 4th to 6th grades from Canada (n = 629) and Israel (n = 602), measuring: Physical Environment, Positive Attitudes, Student-Teacher Relationship, and Psychosocial. RESULTS The Canadian students scored significantly higher than the Israeli students on all domains. The two-way ANOVA did not show a statistically significant interaction between country and gender nor age. However, within each country, girls and 4th grade students reported higher overall QoLS. CONCLUSIONS This study lends support for the universal aspects of perceived QoL at school. This information may serve clinicians and educators in setting goals and de...
This research compared the level of reported pain between women workers with high workload (main ... more This research compared the level of reported pain between women workers with high workload (main work involved typing) and women workers with low workload (various office work where typing was not the main task). The research examined the relationship between reported pain of upper extremities (UE) and the following variables: physical strain exerted during typing on a computer keyboard, extra-work strain on UE, bio-demographic variables, psychosocial variables, and ergonomic variables. Participants were 60 women who worked in offices, divided into two groups. The index group included women whose main work involved typing (high workload: M=6.16 h of typing per day), and the control group did various office work where typing was not the main task (low workload: M=3.23 h of typing per day). The level of pain, physical strain, and data concerning bio-demographic variables, psychosocial variables and ergonomic variables was assessed by a self-reported questionnaire. The results suggeste...
The American Journal of Occupational Therapy, 2009
OBJECTIVE. We describe the development and examination of the construct validity of the Quality o... more OBJECTIVE. We describe the development and examination of the construct validity of the Quality of Life in School (QoLS) questionnaire for elementary-age students. METHOD. The QoLS evolved through four phases in which we devised its items and examined its construct validity. Examination of the construct validity of the final version of the QoLS included 353 students in third through sixth grades. RESULTS. Factor analysis identified four categories within the questionnaire’s items: student–teacher relations, school and classroom physical environment, positive feelings toward school, and negative feelings toward school. Internal consistency indicated a high correlation among the items in each of the factors. In addition, third-grade students reported significantly higher perception of school quality of life (QOL) than their older peers. CONCLUSION. The QoLS may assist clinicians and educators in evaluating students’ school QOL from a multidimensional perspective, including the school’...
The American Journal of Occupational Therapy, 2021
Date Presented Accepted for AOTA INSPIRE 2021 but unable to be presented due to online event limi... more Date Presented Accepted for AOTA INSPIRE 2021 but unable to be presented due to online event limitations. The goal of the study was to evaluate the long-term implications of breast cancer (BC) on upper extremity function, participation, and perceived quality of life (QoL) among Israeli women and examine the utilization of OT services in the rehabilitation process. The study included two steps: (1) an online survey and (3) face-to-face in-depth evaluation. Women with BC reported a wide range of impairments that are within the domain of OT, but only a small minority received OT services. Primary Author and Speaker: Danit Langer Contributing Authors: Hagit Magen, Shlomit Tendler, and Asnat Bar-Haim Erez
Date Presented 03/26/20 The goal of the study was to evaluate the long-term implications of breas... more Date Presented 03/26/20 The goal of the study was to evaluate the long-term implications of breast cancer on upper-extremity function, participation, and perceived quality of life among Israeli women and to examine the utilization of OT services in the rehabilitation process. The study included two steps: (1) an online survey and (2) face-to-face in-depth evaluation. Women with breast cancer reported a wide range of impairments that are within the domain of OT, but only a small minority received OT services. Primary Author and Speaker: Danit Langer Additional Authors and Speakers: Asnat Bar-Haim Erez Contributing Authors: Hagit Magen, Shlomit Tendler
Cognitive and physical factors affect participation in later life. It is imperative to explore th... more Cognitive and physical factors affect participation in later life. It is imperative to explore the contribution of emotional factors on older adults’ participation and wellbeing. Seventy-eight older adults were recruited for this cross-sectional study and grouped based on their level of independence. Emotional functioning, hope, cognition, participation, and wellbeing were measured. Analyses of variance, correlational analysis, and prediction models were employed. Significant differences were found between independent and dependent older adults’ participation and wellbeing, F(2, 72) = 12.71, p < .00, η2 = .26. Independent older adults’ participation was predicted by cognition, β = 0.40, and hope, β = 0.58. Wellbeing was predicted by cognition, β = 0.39, emotional status, β = −0.46, and hope, β = 0.36. Dependent older adults’ wellbeing was predicted by emotional status, β = −0.68, and hope, β = 0.32. Occupational therapists play a key role in promoting healthy aging by incorporati...
Purpose: Audio description (AD) is the systematic method of describing images and visual events t... more Purpose: Audio description (AD) is the systematic method of describing images and visual events to people who are blind or visually impaired (B/VI). AD facilitates access to cultural events such as movies, theater, and professional conferences, and it is aimed at enhancing the partaker’s experience. The current study investigates the impact of AD on the quality of the theater experience during the initial stages of implementation of AD service in theaters in Israel. Specifically, the study analyzes the satisfaction of B/VI theater patrons from AD service as well as the quality of the AD theater experience in relation to the complete three-pronged “AD package”: auditory narration, a touch tour, and preshow notes. Methods: In all, 83 legally B/VI participants were recruited through social networks. Mean age 54 (±14); 58% women. Quantitative questionnaires were developed to assess the satisfaction, quality of the experience, and aspects of accessibility. Five theater productions were a...
Background. Quality of life (QoL) is an important outcome of occupational therapy practice. Autis... more Background. Quality of life (QoL) is an important outcome of occupational therapy practice. Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that impacts the individual throughout their lifespan and may substantially affect QoL. Measuring QoL of people with ASD presents a challenge and a debate whether to use general versus disability-specific adapted measures. Purpose. This paper aims to (a) revisit the construct of QoL and discuss specific dilemmas pertaining to its measurement, and (b) discuss implications to the assessment of QoL in individuals with ASD while highlighting the potential contribution of occupational therapy to the development of measures. Key Issues. We suggest adding the domain of accessibility into QoL assessments, including, physical, sensory, social, and cognitive aspects, and to use disability-specific QoL measures. Implications. The paper presents a call for occupational therapists to be involved in developing specific ASD disability-oriented ...
Introduction. Risk Reducing Bilateral Mastectomy (RRBM) is the most effective method for reducin... more Introduction. Risk Reducing Bilateral Mastectomy (RRBM) is the most effective method for reducing risk of cancer in women with the BRCA mutations. There’s a paucity of knowledge regarding the broad implications of the surgery. The study aims to investigate RRBM’s effect on women’s activities of daily living, physical function, body image and wellbeing. Method. Participated 46 BRCA mutation's carriers (n=22 underwent RRBM; n=24 control group). Participants answered online questionnaires: QDASH, PWI, WHODAS, BIS and MPQ. Results. Women who underwent RRBM reported a decline in body image and intimacy. However, they described improved health-related wellbeing and less fear from cancer than the control group. Women felt that there was insufficient support in the complex physical and functional recovery from the surgery. Conclusion: Most women felt the advantages of the surgery; however, it appears that more professional assistance focusing on daily living and physical function could be valuable in the recovery process.
International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, Sep 2, 2015
This study aimed to assess whether the perception of quality of life (QOL) and subjective well-be... more This study aimed to assess whether the perception of quality of life (QOL) and subjective well-being (SWB) of young adults with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) is affected by participation in a comprehensive program. Participants included 25 young adults with ASD who participated in the "Roim Rachok Program" (RRP), where they were trained to become aerial photography interpreters. Following the training period, they served in a designated army unit where they practiced their newly acquired profession. The participants filled out two questionnaires, (a) Quality of Life (QOL-Q) and (b) Personal Well-being Index (PWI), at three points of the intervention: (a) before the course, (b) at the end of the course, and (c) six months after integrating in the designated army unit. Wilcoxon signed ranks tests were used to assess the differences between the reported QOL and SWB at the three points of time. The results suggest that there were no significant differences at the end of the course, compared to its beginning. However, there were significantly improved perception of QOL and SWB during the period between the end of the course and six months after starting work. The results of this study highlight the importance of tailored vocational programs that are adapted to the unique needs and strengths of individuals with ASD.
... issues: children in a high tech world Sheedy, J. 2001 Growing up with interactive media: what... more ... issues: children in a high tech world Sheedy, J. 2001 Growing up with interactive media: what we ... Teachers&amp;amp;amp;amp;#x27; tools for the 21st century: a report on teachers&amp;amp;amp;amp;#x27; use of technology NCES 2000-102 ... According to the Media in the Home annual telephone survey in 2000, based on parent ...
Work-a Journal of Prevention Assessment & Rehabilitation, 1998
This research compared the level of reported pain between women workers with high workload (main ... more This research compared the level of reported pain between women workers with high workload (main work involved typing) and women workers with low workload (various office work where typing was not the main task). The research examined the relationship between reported pain of upper extremities (UE) and the following variables: physical strain exerted during typing on a computer keyboard, extra-work strain on UE, bio-demographic variables, psychosocial variables, and ergonomic variables. Participants were 60 women who worked in offices, divided into two groups. The index group included women whose main work involved typing (high workload: M=6.16 h of typing per day), and the control group did various office work where typing was not the main task (low workload: M=3.23 h of typing per day). The level of pain, physical strain, and data concerning bio-demographic variables, psychosocial variables and ergonomic variables was assessed by a self-reported questionnaire. The results suggested that there was a significant difference between workers with high and low typing workloads. Workers with higher typing load reported higher levels of pain. There was a significant positive correlation between level of reports of pain and levels of physical overload at work, and extra-work strain on UE both among workers with high and low workloads. It was also found that levels of pain correlated significantly with bio-demographic variables (age and number of children) and psychosocial variables (managerial responsibilities) among low workload workers only. The research on pain of UE indicates that pain may be affected by a multi-factorial nature of a work-related environment which includes physical strain exerted during typing on a computer keyboard, extra-work strain on UE, bio-demographic variables and psychosocial variables.
Long-term disabilities are common among stroke survivors and are associated with reduced quality ... more Long-term disabilities are common among stroke survivors and are associated with reduced quality of life (QoL). Research on occupation-based intervention for chronic stroke survivors is sparse. The objective of this study was to examine the effectiveness of neurofunctional treatment (NFT), an occupation-based client-centred treatment approach, for attaining individualised goals in chronic stroke survivors. A pilot randomised control study with a crossover design was employed. The participants were randomly allocated to treatment or control groups, with the intervention replicated for the control group after three months. Twenty three community dwelling stroke survivors, at least one year post-stroke attending a community day centre participated in this study. The 12-week intervention included NFT with individualised occupational goal setting. The treatment methods included task-specific training, environmental or task adaptation, assistive devices, motivation recruitment, and advocacy. Significant differences between the groups were found on occupational performance measures, but not on QoL. These findings were replicated after crossover for the control group. The results support the efficacy of NFT for attaining occupational goals in individuals in the chronic stage after stroke, yet further research is needed to validate these findings in additional treatment settings and over time.
American Journal of Occupational Therapy, Aug 1, 2021
Date Presented Accepted for AOTA INSPIRE 2021 but unable to be presented due to online event limi... more Date Presented Accepted for AOTA INSPIRE 2021 but unable to be presented due to online event limitations. The goal of the study was to evaluate the long-term implications of breast cancer (BC) on upper extremity function, participation, and perceived quality of life (QoL) among Israeli women and examine the utilization of OT services in the rehabilitation process. The study included two steps: (1) an online survey and (3) face-to-face in-depth evaluation. Women with BC reported a wide range of impairments that are within the domain of OT, but only a small minority received OT services. Primary Author and Speaker: Danit Langer Contributing Authors: Hagit Magen, Shlomit Tendler, and Asnat Bar-Haim Erez
American Journal of Occupational Therapy, May 1, 2012
OBJECTIVE. We studied the internal consistency reliability and construct validity of the new Dyna... more OBJECTIVE. We studied the internal consistency reliability and construct validity of the new Dynamic Lowenstein Occupational Therapy Cognitive Assessment-Geriatric Version (DLOTCA-G), a dynamic version of the Lowenstein Occupational Therapy Cognitive Assessment-Geriatric Version (LOTCA-G), and examined the properties of the mediation system. METHOD. Participants included 61 clients hospitalized after stroke in three rehabilitation centers (mean age 5 77.6 yr, standard deviation [SD] 5 6.2) and 52 healthy control participants (mean age 5 77.8 yr, SD 5 6.4). All participants were assessed with the DLOTCA-G. RESULTS. Internal consistency reliability showed moderate to high a coefficient levels in all domains (as 5 .68-.85) except the Memory domain (a 5 .26). Both groups benefitted from mediation, but the stroke clients needed more concrete levels of mediation (Levels 3-5). CONCLUSION. The addition of mediation to the LOTCA-G is effective in providing insights into clients' cognitive status and learning potential. Our findings are similar to the results of the validation study for the DLOTCA for adults and support the use and benefits of the dynamic version.
Physical & Occupational Therapy in Geriatrics, 2004
The aim of this study was to validate the Loewenstein Occupational Therapy Cognitive Assessment (... more The aim of this study was to validate the Loewenstein Occupational Therapy Cognitive Assessment (LOTCA-G) for individuals with dementia compared to healthy elderly in order to provide a starting point for intervention. Subjects included 30 participants with dementia and 43 healthy elderly. Results showed significant differences between the groups on all LOTCA-G areas. Most subtests differentiated between individuals with mild dementia (MMSE 20–23) and moderate dementia (MMSE 16–19), suggesting that the test is sensitive to levels of dementia. Significant moderate correlations were found between LOTCA-G areas and MMSE score. In conclusion, the LOTCA-G is recommended for elderly with dementia to obtain a detailed cognitive profile beyond the MMSE cut-off score, enabling intervention planning.
American Journal of Occupational Therapy, Aug 1, 2020
Date Presented 03/26/20 The goal of the study was to evaluate the long-term implications of breas... more Date Presented 03/26/20 The goal of the study was to evaluate the long-term implications of breast cancer on upper-extremity function, participation, and perceived quality of life among Israeli women and to examine the utilization of OT services in the rehabilitation process. The study included two steps: (1) an online survey and (2) face-to-face in-depth evaluation. Women with breast cancer reported a wide range of impairments that are within the domain of OT, but only a small minority received OT services. Primary Author and Speaker: Danit Langer Additional Authors and Speakers: Asnat Bar-Haim Erez Contributing Authors: Hagit Magen, Shlomit Tendler
Work-a Journal of Prevention Assessment & Rehabilitation, May 16, 2023
BACKGROUND: Studies found that women with breast cancer struggle with significant physical and me... more BACKGROUND: Studies found that women with breast cancer struggle with significant physical and mental challenges that affect their participation in daily living, social and work activities. Although women express their need for rehabilitation, in Israel there has been scant research on the nature of these needs. OBJECTIVE: To examine the implications of breast cancer for Israeli women in terms of their quality of life, body function, activities and participation in all facets of life, including work. METHODS: The sample was composed of women diagnosed with breast cancer. The data were collected through: (a) an online electronic survey assessing cancer-related quality of life (QoL), function and disability, fatigue and sensory-motor functions, (n = 120) followed by (b) face-to-face interviews and assessments (n = 20), and a healthy control group (n = 61). RESULTS: Women with breast cancer reported significantly lower QoL compared to the healthy control group. They reported higher levels of disability in areas such as, cognition, mobility, upper extremity, as well as overall difficulties in self-care, doing routine household activities and return to work. Roughly one-third of the women did not return to work. Interestingly, our sample did not perceive a decline in terms of their social support or networks, the women stated that family and social support were major enabling factors. CONCLUSION: The results show that breast cancer has short and long-term functional effects on most facets of these women’s life. The women’s social support system served as an enabling factor. Many women expressed their frustration at the lack of rehabilitation services for their condition and needs in Israel.
American Journal of Occupational Therapy, Jul 1, 2015
Date Presented 4/16/2015 An accessible and adapted computerized version of the Personal Wellbeing... more Date Presented 4/16/2015 An accessible and adapted computerized version of the Personal Wellbeing Index—Intellectual Disability (PWI–ID), which is a known subjective well-being (SWB) measure, was developed and validated for individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities. Both the assessment tool and research data are presented for this population and their caregivers.
BACKGROUND Cross-national comparisons of students' school quality of life (QoL) can support o... more BACKGROUND Cross-national comparisons of students' school quality of life (QoL) can support our understanding of factors that may affect students' health and well-being at school. OBJECTIVE To compare Canadian and Israeli students' perception of their school QoL. METHODS The Quality of Life at School Questionnaire (QoLS) was administered to 1231 students in 4th to 6th grades from Canada (n = 629) and Israel (n = 602), measuring: Physical Environment, Positive Attitudes, Student-Teacher Relationship, and Psychosocial. RESULTS The Canadian students scored significantly higher than the Israeli students on all domains. The two-way ANOVA did not show a statistically significant interaction between country and gender nor age. However, within each country, girls and 4th grade students reported higher overall QoLS. CONCLUSIONS This study lends support for the universal aspects of perceived QoL at school. This information may serve clinicians and educators in setting goals and de...
This research compared the level of reported pain between women workers with high workload (main ... more This research compared the level of reported pain between women workers with high workload (main work involved typing) and women workers with low workload (various office work where typing was not the main task). The research examined the relationship between reported pain of upper extremities (UE) and the following variables: physical strain exerted during typing on a computer keyboard, extra-work strain on UE, bio-demographic variables, psychosocial variables, and ergonomic variables. Participants were 60 women who worked in offices, divided into two groups. The index group included women whose main work involved typing (high workload: M=6.16 h of typing per day), and the control group did various office work where typing was not the main task (low workload: M=3.23 h of typing per day). The level of pain, physical strain, and data concerning bio-demographic variables, psychosocial variables and ergonomic variables was assessed by a self-reported questionnaire. The results suggeste...
The American Journal of Occupational Therapy, 2009
OBJECTIVE. We describe the development and examination of the construct validity of the Quality o... more OBJECTIVE. We describe the development and examination of the construct validity of the Quality of Life in School (QoLS) questionnaire for elementary-age students. METHOD. The QoLS evolved through four phases in which we devised its items and examined its construct validity. Examination of the construct validity of the final version of the QoLS included 353 students in third through sixth grades. RESULTS. Factor analysis identified four categories within the questionnaire’s items: student–teacher relations, school and classroom physical environment, positive feelings toward school, and negative feelings toward school. Internal consistency indicated a high correlation among the items in each of the factors. In addition, third-grade students reported significantly higher perception of school quality of life (QOL) than their older peers. CONCLUSION. The QoLS may assist clinicians and educators in evaluating students’ school QOL from a multidimensional perspective, including the school’...
The American Journal of Occupational Therapy, 2021
Date Presented Accepted for AOTA INSPIRE 2021 but unable to be presented due to online event limi... more Date Presented Accepted for AOTA INSPIRE 2021 but unable to be presented due to online event limitations. The goal of the study was to evaluate the long-term implications of breast cancer (BC) on upper extremity function, participation, and perceived quality of life (QoL) among Israeli women and examine the utilization of OT services in the rehabilitation process. The study included two steps: (1) an online survey and (3) face-to-face in-depth evaluation. Women with BC reported a wide range of impairments that are within the domain of OT, but only a small minority received OT services. Primary Author and Speaker: Danit Langer Contributing Authors: Hagit Magen, Shlomit Tendler, and Asnat Bar-Haim Erez
Date Presented 03/26/20 The goal of the study was to evaluate the long-term implications of breas... more Date Presented 03/26/20 The goal of the study was to evaluate the long-term implications of breast cancer on upper-extremity function, participation, and perceived quality of life among Israeli women and to examine the utilization of OT services in the rehabilitation process. The study included two steps: (1) an online survey and (2) face-to-face in-depth evaluation. Women with breast cancer reported a wide range of impairments that are within the domain of OT, but only a small minority received OT services. Primary Author and Speaker: Danit Langer Additional Authors and Speakers: Asnat Bar-Haim Erez Contributing Authors: Hagit Magen, Shlomit Tendler
Cognitive and physical factors affect participation in later life. It is imperative to explore th... more Cognitive and physical factors affect participation in later life. It is imperative to explore the contribution of emotional factors on older adults’ participation and wellbeing. Seventy-eight older adults were recruited for this cross-sectional study and grouped based on their level of independence. Emotional functioning, hope, cognition, participation, and wellbeing were measured. Analyses of variance, correlational analysis, and prediction models were employed. Significant differences were found between independent and dependent older adults’ participation and wellbeing, F(2, 72) = 12.71, p < .00, η2 = .26. Independent older adults’ participation was predicted by cognition, β = 0.40, and hope, β = 0.58. Wellbeing was predicted by cognition, β = 0.39, emotional status, β = −0.46, and hope, β = 0.36. Dependent older adults’ wellbeing was predicted by emotional status, β = −0.68, and hope, β = 0.32. Occupational therapists play a key role in promoting healthy aging by incorporati...
Purpose: Audio description (AD) is the systematic method of describing images and visual events t... more Purpose: Audio description (AD) is the systematic method of describing images and visual events to people who are blind or visually impaired (B/VI). AD facilitates access to cultural events such as movies, theater, and professional conferences, and it is aimed at enhancing the partaker’s experience. The current study investigates the impact of AD on the quality of the theater experience during the initial stages of implementation of AD service in theaters in Israel. Specifically, the study analyzes the satisfaction of B/VI theater patrons from AD service as well as the quality of the AD theater experience in relation to the complete three-pronged “AD package”: auditory narration, a touch tour, and preshow notes. Methods: In all, 83 legally B/VI participants were recruited through social networks. Mean age 54 (±14); 58% women. Quantitative questionnaires were developed to assess the satisfaction, quality of the experience, and aspects of accessibility. Five theater productions were a...
Background. Quality of life (QoL) is an important outcome of occupational therapy practice. Autis... more Background. Quality of life (QoL) is an important outcome of occupational therapy practice. Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that impacts the individual throughout their lifespan and may substantially affect QoL. Measuring QoL of people with ASD presents a challenge and a debate whether to use general versus disability-specific adapted measures. Purpose. This paper aims to (a) revisit the construct of QoL and discuss specific dilemmas pertaining to its measurement, and (b) discuss implications to the assessment of QoL in individuals with ASD while highlighting the potential contribution of occupational therapy to the development of measures. Key Issues. We suggest adding the domain of accessibility into QoL assessments, including, physical, sensory, social, and cognitive aspects, and to use disability-specific QoL measures. Implications. The paper presents a call for occupational therapists to be involved in developing specific ASD disability-oriented ...
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