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Leanne Leclair

University of Manitoba, Occupational Therapy, Faculty Member

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Menoufiya University

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Papers by Leanne Leclair

Research priority 5: Setting the stage for research on the impact of occupational therapy in primary care

British Journal of Occupational Therapy, Jan 8, 2024

Development of a Conceptual Framework for Adult Community Rehabilitation Policy, Planning, Care, and Research: A Multimethod Qualitative Approach

Health & social care in the community, Jan 25, 2024

International community of practice: learning from experiences of community development and social occupational therapy

Cadernos Brasileiros de Terapia Ocupacional

Introduction Increasingly, occupational therapists and scientists across the globe are calling fo... more Introduction Increasingly, occupational therapists and scientists across the globe are calling for a shift away from individualised western medical approaches, to working with communities and collectives, and in the social field. This signals the growing motivation to engage in socially responsive and transformative practices that address political structures and oppressive colonial systems. Objective The purpose of our Community of Practice (CoP) was to explore and describe the epistemologies, vocabularies, and understandings that underpin community development and social occupational therapy within diverse global contexts to advance theoretical perspectives and practices. Method As a CoP of occupational therapy and science scholars situated in four countries (Australia, Brazil, Canada, and South Africa), we met virtually bi-monthly from March 2020 to January 2023. Scholarly work involved critical narrative literature reviews, reflexive presentations, group dialogues, and individua...

Community supports for parents of young children: A needs assessment

Statement of the problem: Supporting parents with young children has increasingly become an essen... more Statement of the problem: Supporting parents with young children has increasingly become an essential part of public policies. Manitoba Parent-Child Coalitions are tasked with identifying community needs and priorities related to community programs for families with young children and developing a sustainable plan for addressing community needs. The methods used to establish community needs and priorities vary considerably. Only a handful of the needs assessments (NA) related to community supports for parents found in the literature focused broadly on the needs of all parents at the community level. In addition, the nature and quality of the NA varied considerably, and parents were often not involved in the process. Use of a participatory NA process such as the Concerns Report Method (CRM) could provide communities with important information about the community support needs of parents with young children while involving parents in the decision-making process. Methods: The CRM uses a mixed methods exploratory sequential research design. Phase 1 of the CRM, reflection on values and issues of importance, involved the use of several qualitative methods: a document review of existing community data and community supports, interviews and focus groups with parents (N=29) and service providers (N=11). The results of Phase 1 were used to develop a Community Concerns Report Survey for parents (N=319) and service providers (N=47) that was used in Phase 2 of the CRM, identifying community concerns. Logistic regression was used to determine the child and family characteristics that were associated with parent perceived community support needs. v Dedication To my parents, Albert and Marlene Leclair, my first and greatest supporters To my children, Elia and Franco, my inspirations and raison d'etre vi Tables of Contents

Occupational Therapy Department College of Rehabilitation

Inclusiveness through community development

Occupation, Health and Well-Being

Canadian Journal of Occupational Therapy, Apr 1, 1998

Occupational therapists believe that there is a relationship between occupation, health and well-... more Occupational therapists believe that there is a relationship between occupation, health and well-being but there is little evidence in the occupational therapy literature to support this belief. This paper describes the results of a critical review of research examining the relationship between occupation and health and well-being. Twenty-two studies from the health and social sciences literature were reviewed using specific methodological review criteria. The findings of these studies provide moderate to strong evidence that occupation has an important influence on health and well-being. Because most of this research has been completed with persons without disabilities, further research is required to explain the nature of the relationship between occupation and health and well-being for persons who experience a disability which affects their daily occupations

Profiling the Research Activities of Canadian Occupational Therapy and Occupational Science Faculty Members

Canadian Journal of Occupational Therapy, Jan 19, 2023

Background. There is a lack of knowledge on the scope and nature of the research by faculty membe... more Background. There is a lack of knowledge on the scope and nature of the research by faculty members in occupational science (OS) and/or occupational therapy (OT) programs in Canada. Purpose. To describe the research activities of faculty members in these programs and directions. Method. A cross-sectional survey was distributed to 173 faculty members across all 14 Canadian OT that addressed: 1) research topics and methods, 2) populations, and 3) funding. Findings. Based on respondents ( N = 121), research is focused on a range of topics and populations with most conducting qualitative research. Many conduct research examining the effectiveness of interventions, with few respondents focused on OS research. Federal and provincial grants agencies were the largest source of funding. Implications. Research topics studied were not always proportional to practice although emerging areas were being investigated that can expand the evidence base and scope of practice. Despite limited occupation-specific funding options, respondents were accessing funding from varied sources. Collaborations among faculty members, clinicians, and individuals with lived experience can create priorities for future OS and/or OT research in Canada.

Preparing for community development practice: A Delphi study of Canadian occupational therapists

Canadian Journal of Occupational Therapy, Jul 19, 2016

Increasingly, community development is recognized as an important process for occupational therap... more Increasingly, community development is recognized as an important process for occupational therapy practice. However, occupational therapists working in community development report feeling unprepared. This study aimed to identify the knowledge, skills, and experiences that occupational therapists need for practice in community development. Using the Delphi technique, the researchers developed statements from the Round 1 (n = 8) responses of occupational therapists involved in community development practice or scholarship. Rounds 2 (n = 14) and 3 (n = 12) sought to establish consensus among the occupational therapists on the areas of focus. Participants rated the importance of 64 statements grouped into 11 domains. After three rounds, researchers eliminated six statements by analyzing the median, interquartile range, and percentage of agreement. Participants reached consensus on 58 statements. Many of the competencies identified were relevant to all areas of practice, while others were specific to community development, suggesting a need for specialized education and training in this area. The results provide information that can be used to enhance the preparation of occupational therapists for practice in community development.

Exploring the delivery of community rehabilitation services for older people in an urban Canadian setting: Perspectives of service providers, managers and health system administrators

Health & Social Care in The Community, Nov 30, 2021

As the global population of older people increases, policies aimed at improving health care deliv... more As the global population of older people increases, policies aimed at improving health care delivery for older people often include supports for ageing in place. Living in the community not only reduces institutionalisation but also improves quality of life and reduces health care costs. For older people, community rehabilitation offers the opportunity to preserve and maximise function while maintaining the ability to live in the community. However, limited research examines the delivery, coordination and integration of community rehabilitation services in health systems. Our case study explored the perspectives of service providers, managers and health system administrators on the strengths, limitations and gaps in community rehabilitation for older people in one Canadian urban health region. Using interpretive description and thematic analysis, we analysed interview data from: 16 service providers, eight managers and five health system administrators. Three themes were identified: (a) Limited Access to Programs and Services; (b) Need to Emphasise Promoting, Maintaining and Restoring Function; and (c) Lack of Flow Across the System. Participants highlighted that restrictive eligibility criteria limited access to services. Services were organised around health conditions that did not address the needs of older people. Long waitlists meant that services were delayed. Transportation costs limited participation of individuals from lower socioeconomic status (SES). Age restrictions did not reflect differences in the ageing process and the health inequities individuals from lower SES groups experienced. There was a lack of emphasis in community rehabilitation programs on maintaining or restoring function in older people, which is the primary focus of rehabilitation. Furthermore, key stakeholders stressed the need for strengthening the integration of service delivery across the continuum of care. The findings underscore the need to develop a conceptual framework for community rehabilitation to promote greater system integration, access and availability of services and to optimise functional outcomes for older people.

Experiences of stroke survivors and measurement of post stroke participation and activity across seasons—A mixed methods approach

PLOS ONE, Oct 29, 2021

Participation and activity post stroke can be limited due to adverse weather conditions. This stu... more Participation and activity post stroke can be limited due to adverse weather conditions. This study aimed to: Quantify and compare summer and winter participation and activity, and explore how community dwelling people with stroke describe their feelings about their level of participation and activity by season. This embedded mixed-methods observational study took place in a city with weather extremes. Community dwelling individuals at least one year post-stroke, able to walk �50 metres +/-a walking aide were included. Evaluations and interviews occurred at participants' homes in two seasons: Reintegration to Normal living Index (RNL), Activities-specific Balance Confidence (ABC) and descriptive outcomes. Participants wore activity monitors for one week each season. Analysis included descriptive statistics, non-parametric tests and an inductive approach to content analysis. Thirteen individuals participated in quantitative evaluation with eight interviewed. Mean age 61.5 years, 62% female and mean 6.2 years post-stroke. No differences between winter-summer values of RNL, ABC, or activity monitor outcomes. However, participants felt they could do more and were more independent in summer. The winter conditions such as ice, snow, cold and wind restricted participation and limited activities. Nonetheless, many participants were active and participated despite the winter challenges by finding other ways to be active, and relying on social supports and personal motivation. The qualitative findings explained unexpected quantitative results. Participants described many challenges with winter weather, but also ways they had discovered to participate and be active despite these challenges. Changes to future studies into seasonal differences are suggested.

Academic and Social Outcomes for High-Risk Youths in Manitoba

Canadian Journal of Education, Dec 4, 2010

This study examined academic and social outcomes for high-risk youths in Manitoba, using longitud... more This study examined academic and social outcomes for high-risk youths in Manitoba, using longitudinal, population-based data. All children born in Manitoba in 1984-1985 who resided in Winnipeg the year they turned 18 were included in analyses (N = 11,703). High risk youths were defined as those involved with child welfare services, living in poverty, and/or having a mother who was a teen at first childbirth. Of youths with one risk factor, 41 to 57 per cent failed to complete high school, and 84 per cent of those with all three risk factors did not complete high school, compared with only 18 per cent of youths with none of the risk factors. Multiple risk factors put youths at an even greater disadvantage. Similar poor outcomes for high risk youths were observed for performance in grade 9, unemployment in early adulthood, and teen births. The findings suggest an intractable cycle of risk and disadvantage with farreaching social and economic implications.

Re-Examining Concepts of Occupation and Occupation-Based Models: Occupational Therapy and Community Development

Canadian Journal of Occupational Therapy, Feb 1, 2010

Background. A growing body of literature supports the role of occupational therapists in communit... more Background. A growing body of literature supports the role of occupational therapists in community development. Using a community development approach, occupational therapists respond to community-identified occupational needs. They work to build local resources and capacities and self-sustaining programs that foster change within the community and potentially beyond. Purpose. The purpose of this paper is to highlight some key issues related to occupational therapy practice in community development. Key Issues. The definitions and classifications of occupation focus primarily on the individual and fail to elaborate on the shared occupations of a community. As well, occupation-based models of practice are not easily applied to occupational therapy practice in community development. Implications. In order for occupational therapy to articulate its role in community development, greater heed needs to be given to the definition and categorization of occupation, occupation-based models of practice, and their application to communities.

Book Review: Occupational therapy for people experiencing illness, injury or impairment: Promoting occupation and participation

Canadian Journal of Occupational Therapy, Apr 1, 2019

The Early Development Instrument – Creation of a Fine Motor/Visual Motor Index

Journal of Occupational Therapy, Schools, & Early Intervention, Apr 19, 2019

Research suggests that kindergarten fine motor (FM) and visual motor (VM) skills predict later sc... more Research suggests that kindergarten fine motor (FM) and visual motor (VM) skills predict later school performance. Being able to identify if gaps exist in FM/VM readiness could inform FM/VM programming in the early years. The Early Development Instrument is used to assess school readiness in Canada and other countries. Through a Delphi method, a FM/VM Index was developed from Early Development Instrument items. The internal consistency of this Index was calculated and a cutoff score established below which FM/VM skills in the context of school readiness would be considered "Vulnerable." The result is a FM/VM Index containing 11 questions.

Occupational therapy services in primary care: a scoping review

Primary Health Care Research & Development

Aim: To examine and describe the current evidence about occupational therapy services in primary ... more Aim: To examine and describe the current evidence about occupational therapy services in primary care. Background: Interprofessional primary care teams have been introduced to support the changing demographics and provide more comprehensive and coordinated care. Occupational therapists have the opportunity to play an important role in this expanding area of practice. To do so, occupational therapists must develop roles built on evidence and a clear understanding of the care delivery context. Methods: A scoping review was conducted based on the scientific and grey literature. Studies that described or examined the occupational therapy role with clients (individuals, groups, communities, populations) of all ages, conditions or occupational issues in a primary care context and that presented or referred to an occupational therapist working in a primary care setting were included. Studies were excluded if they were not in English or French. The Canadian Model of Occupational Performance...

Profiling the Research Activities of Canadian Occupational Therapy and Occupational Science Faculty Members

Canadian Journal of Occupational Therapy

Background. There is a lack of knowledge on the scope and nature of the research by faculty membe... more Background. There is a lack of knowledge on the scope and nature of the research by faculty members in occupational science (OS) and/or occupational therapy (OT) programs in Canada. Purpose. To describe the research activities of faculty members in these programs and directions. Method. A cross-sectional survey was distributed to 173 faculty members across all 14 Canadian OT that addressed: 1) research topics and methods, 2) populations, and 3) funding. Findings. Based on respondents ( N = 121), research is focused on a range of topics and populations with most conducting qualitative research. Many conduct research examining the effectiveness of interventions, with few respondents focused on OS research. Federal and provincial grants agencies were the largest source of funding. Implications. Research topics studied were not always proportional to practice although emerging areas were being investigated that can expand the evidence base and scope of practice. Despite limited occupa...

Stroke Survivors and their Physiotherapists’ Perceptions of Recovery: A Multiple Methods Approach

Physiotherapy Canada

Purpose: This multiple-methods study examined perceptions of recovery among stroke survivors and ... more Purpose: This multiple-methods study examined perceptions of recovery among stroke survivors and their physiotherapists at discharge from an in-patient rehabilitation program. Method: The Functional Independence Measure (FIM) and Chedoke McMaster Stroke Assessment Activity Inventory scores were collected from chart review and the following outcome measures were completed by interview: Stroke Impact Scale (SIS) global recovery, Hospital Anxiety Depression Scale, and Montreal Cognitive Assessment. Physiotherapists also completed the SIS global recovery for each participant. Spearman and Pearson correlations between SIS recovery and observed measures were completed. The stroke survivors had a short interview about their perception of recovery and what recovery meant to them, and their physiotherapists answered two written questions about each participant’s recovery. Responses were coded and categorized based on the International Classification of Functioning. Results: A total of 31 str...

Supplemental Material, Leclair_Appendix_B - An occupational therapy community development practice process

Supplemental Material, Leclair_Appendix_B for An occupational therapy community development pract... more

Supplemental Material, Leclair_Appendix_A - An occupational therapy community development practice process

Supplemental Material, Leclair_Appendix_A for An occupational therapy community development pract... more

Research priority 5: Setting the stage for research on the impact of occupational therapy in primary care

British Journal of Occupational Therapy, Jan 8, 2024

Development of a Conceptual Framework for Adult Community Rehabilitation Policy, Planning, Care, and Research: A Multimethod Qualitative Approach

Health & social care in the community, Jan 25, 2024

International community of practice: learning from experiences of community development and social occupational therapy

Cadernos Brasileiros de Terapia Ocupacional

Introduction Increasingly, occupational therapists and scientists across the globe are calling fo... more Introduction Increasingly, occupational therapists and scientists across the globe are calling for a shift away from individualised western medical approaches, to working with communities and collectives, and in the social field. This signals the growing motivation to engage in socially responsive and transformative practices that address political structures and oppressive colonial systems. Objective The purpose of our Community of Practice (CoP) was to explore and describe the epistemologies, vocabularies, and understandings that underpin community development and social occupational therapy within diverse global contexts to advance theoretical perspectives and practices. Method As a CoP of occupational therapy and science scholars situated in four countries (Australia, Brazil, Canada, and South Africa), we met virtually bi-monthly from March 2020 to January 2023. Scholarly work involved critical narrative literature reviews, reflexive presentations, group dialogues, and individua...

Community supports for parents of young children: A needs assessment

Statement of the problem: Supporting parents with young children has increasingly become an essen... more Statement of the problem: Supporting parents with young children has increasingly become an essential part of public policies. Manitoba Parent-Child Coalitions are tasked with identifying community needs and priorities related to community programs for families with young children and developing a sustainable plan for addressing community needs. The methods used to establish community needs and priorities vary considerably. Only a handful of the needs assessments (NA) related to community supports for parents found in the literature focused broadly on the needs of all parents at the community level. In addition, the nature and quality of the NA varied considerably, and parents were often not involved in the process. Use of a participatory NA process such as the Concerns Report Method (CRM) could provide communities with important information about the community support needs of parents with young children while involving parents in the decision-making process. Methods: The CRM uses a mixed methods exploratory sequential research design. Phase 1 of the CRM, reflection on values and issues of importance, involved the use of several qualitative methods: a document review of existing community data and community supports, interviews and focus groups with parents (N=29) and service providers (N=11). The results of Phase 1 were used to develop a Community Concerns Report Survey for parents (N=319) and service providers (N=47) that was used in Phase 2 of the CRM, identifying community concerns. Logistic regression was used to determine the child and family characteristics that were associated with parent perceived community support needs. v Dedication To my parents, Albert and Marlene Leclair, my first and greatest supporters To my children, Elia and Franco, my inspirations and raison d'etre vi Tables of Contents

Occupational Therapy Department College of Rehabilitation

Inclusiveness through community development

Occupation, Health and Well-Being

Canadian Journal of Occupational Therapy, Apr 1, 1998

Occupational therapists believe that there is a relationship between occupation, health and well-... more Occupational therapists believe that there is a relationship between occupation, health and well-being but there is little evidence in the occupational therapy literature to support this belief. This paper describes the results of a critical review of research examining the relationship between occupation and health and well-being. Twenty-two studies from the health and social sciences literature were reviewed using specific methodological review criteria. The findings of these studies provide moderate to strong evidence that occupation has an important influence on health and well-being. Because most of this research has been completed with persons without disabilities, further research is required to explain the nature of the relationship between occupation and health and well-being for persons who experience a disability which affects their daily occupations

Profiling the Research Activities of Canadian Occupational Therapy and Occupational Science Faculty Members

Canadian Journal of Occupational Therapy, Jan 19, 2023

Background. There is a lack of knowledge on the scope and nature of the research by faculty membe... more Background. There is a lack of knowledge on the scope and nature of the research by faculty members in occupational science (OS) and/or occupational therapy (OT) programs in Canada. Purpose. To describe the research activities of faculty members in these programs and directions. Method. A cross-sectional survey was distributed to 173 faculty members across all 14 Canadian OT that addressed: 1) research topics and methods, 2) populations, and 3) funding. Findings. Based on respondents ( N = 121), research is focused on a range of topics and populations with most conducting qualitative research. Many conduct research examining the effectiveness of interventions, with few respondents focused on OS research. Federal and provincial grants agencies were the largest source of funding. Implications. Research topics studied were not always proportional to practice although emerging areas were being investigated that can expand the evidence base and scope of practice. Despite limited occupation-specific funding options, respondents were accessing funding from varied sources. Collaborations among faculty members, clinicians, and individuals with lived experience can create priorities for future OS and/or OT research in Canada.

Preparing for community development practice: A Delphi study of Canadian occupational therapists

Canadian Journal of Occupational Therapy, Jul 19, 2016

Increasingly, community development is recognized as an important process for occupational therap... more Increasingly, community development is recognized as an important process for occupational therapy practice. However, occupational therapists working in community development report feeling unprepared. This study aimed to identify the knowledge, skills, and experiences that occupational therapists need for practice in community development. Using the Delphi technique, the researchers developed statements from the Round 1 (n = 8) responses of occupational therapists involved in community development practice or scholarship. Rounds 2 (n = 14) and 3 (n = 12) sought to establish consensus among the occupational therapists on the areas of focus. Participants rated the importance of 64 statements grouped into 11 domains. After three rounds, researchers eliminated six statements by analyzing the median, interquartile range, and percentage of agreement. Participants reached consensus on 58 statements. Many of the competencies identified were relevant to all areas of practice, while others were specific to community development, suggesting a need for specialized education and training in this area. The results provide information that can be used to enhance the preparation of occupational therapists for practice in community development.

Exploring the delivery of community rehabilitation services for older people in an urban Canadian setting: Perspectives of service providers, managers and health system administrators

Health & Social Care in The Community, Nov 30, 2021

As the global population of older people increases, policies aimed at improving health care deliv... more As the global population of older people increases, policies aimed at improving health care delivery for older people often include supports for ageing in place. Living in the community not only reduces institutionalisation but also improves quality of life and reduces health care costs. For older people, community rehabilitation offers the opportunity to preserve and maximise function while maintaining the ability to live in the community. However, limited research examines the delivery, coordination and integration of community rehabilitation services in health systems. Our case study explored the perspectives of service providers, managers and health system administrators on the strengths, limitations and gaps in community rehabilitation for older people in one Canadian urban health region. Using interpretive description and thematic analysis, we analysed interview data from: 16 service providers, eight managers and five health system administrators. Three themes were identified: (a) Limited Access to Programs and Services; (b) Need to Emphasise Promoting, Maintaining and Restoring Function; and (c) Lack of Flow Across the System. Participants highlighted that restrictive eligibility criteria limited access to services. Services were organised around health conditions that did not address the needs of older people. Long waitlists meant that services were delayed. Transportation costs limited participation of individuals from lower socioeconomic status (SES). Age restrictions did not reflect differences in the ageing process and the health inequities individuals from lower SES groups experienced. There was a lack of emphasis in community rehabilitation programs on maintaining or restoring function in older people, which is the primary focus of rehabilitation. Furthermore, key stakeholders stressed the need for strengthening the integration of service delivery across the continuum of care. The findings underscore the need to develop a conceptual framework for community rehabilitation to promote greater system integration, access and availability of services and to optimise functional outcomes for older people.

Experiences of stroke survivors and measurement of post stroke participation and activity across seasons—A mixed methods approach

PLOS ONE, Oct 29, 2021

Participation and activity post stroke can be limited due to adverse weather conditions. This stu... more Participation and activity post stroke can be limited due to adverse weather conditions. This study aimed to: Quantify and compare summer and winter participation and activity, and explore how community dwelling people with stroke describe their feelings about their level of participation and activity by season. This embedded mixed-methods observational study took place in a city with weather extremes. Community dwelling individuals at least one year post-stroke, able to walk �50 metres +/-a walking aide were included. Evaluations and interviews occurred at participants' homes in two seasons: Reintegration to Normal living Index (RNL), Activities-specific Balance Confidence (ABC) and descriptive outcomes. Participants wore activity monitors for one week each season. Analysis included descriptive statistics, non-parametric tests and an inductive approach to content analysis. Thirteen individuals participated in quantitative evaluation with eight interviewed. Mean age 61.5 years, 62% female and mean 6.2 years post-stroke. No differences between winter-summer values of RNL, ABC, or activity monitor outcomes. However, participants felt they could do more and were more independent in summer. The winter conditions such as ice, snow, cold and wind restricted participation and limited activities. Nonetheless, many participants were active and participated despite the winter challenges by finding other ways to be active, and relying on social supports and personal motivation. The qualitative findings explained unexpected quantitative results. Participants described many challenges with winter weather, but also ways they had discovered to participate and be active despite these challenges. Changes to future studies into seasonal differences are suggested.

Academic and Social Outcomes for High-Risk Youths in Manitoba

Canadian Journal of Education, Dec 4, 2010

This study examined academic and social outcomes for high-risk youths in Manitoba, using longitud... more This study examined academic and social outcomes for high-risk youths in Manitoba, using longitudinal, population-based data. All children born in Manitoba in 1984-1985 who resided in Winnipeg the year they turned 18 were included in analyses (N = 11,703). High risk youths were defined as those involved with child welfare services, living in poverty, and/or having a mother who was a teen at first childbirth. Of youths with one risk factor, 41 to 57 per cent failed to complete high school, and 84 per cent of those with all three risk factors did not complete high school, compared with only 18 per cent of youths with none of the risk factors. Multiple risk factors put youths at an even greater disadvantage. Similar poor outcomes for high risk youths were observed for performance in grade 9, unemployment in early adulthood, and teen births. The findings suggest an intractable cycle of risk and disadvantage with farreaching social and economic implications.

Re-Examining Concepts of Occupation and Occupation-Based Models: Occupational Therapy and Community Development

Canadian Journal of Occupational Therapy, Feb 1, 2010

Background. A growing body of literature supports the role of occupational therapists in communit... more Background. A growing body of literature supports the role of occupational therapists in community development. Using a community development approach, occupational therapists respond to community-identified occupational needs. They work to build local resources and capacities and self-sustaining programs that foster change within the community and potentially beyond. Purpose. The purpose of this paper is to highlight some key issues related to occupational therapy practice in community development. Key Issues. The definitions and classifications of occupation focus primarily on the individual and fail to elaborate on the shared occupations of a community. As well, occupation-based models of practice are not easily applied to occupational therapy practice in community development. Implications. In order for occupational therapy to articulate its role in community development, greater heed needs to be given to the definition and categorization of occupation, occupation-based models of practice, and their application to communities.

Book Review: Occupational therapy for people experiencing illness, injury or impairment: Promoting occupation and participation

Canadian Journal of Occupational Therapy, Apr 1, 2019

The Early Development Instrument – Creation of a Fine Motor/Visual Motor Index

Journal of Occupational Therapy, Schools, & Early Intervention, Apr 19, 2019

Research suggests that kindergarten fine motor (FM) and visual motor (VM) skills predict later sc... more Research suggests that kindergarten fine motor (FM) and visual motor (VM) skills predict later school performance. Being able to identify if gaps exist in FM/VM readiness could inform FM/VM programming in the early years. The Early Development Instrument is used to assess school readiness in Canada and other countries. Through a Delphi method, a FM/VM Index was developed from Early Development Instrument items. The internal consistency of this Index was calculated and a cutoff score established below which FM/VM skills in the context of school readiness would be considered "Vulnerable." The result is a FM/VM Index containing 11 questions.

Occupational therapy services in primary care: a scoping review

Primary Health Care Research & Development

Aim: To examine and describe the current evidence about occupational therapy services in primary ... more Aim: To examine and describe the current evidence about occupational therapy services in primary care. Background: Interprofessional primary care teams have been introduced to support the changing demographics and provide more comprehensive and coordinated care. Occupational therapists have the opportunity to play an important role in this expanding area of practice. To do so, occupational therapists must develop roles built on evidence and a clear understanding of the care delivery context. Methods: A scoping review was conducted based on the scientific and grey literature. Studies that described or examined the occupational therapy role with clients (individuals, groups, communities, populations) of all ages, conditions or occupational issues in a primary care context and that presented or referred to an occupational therapist working in a primary care setting were included. Studies were excluded if they were not in English or French. The Canadian Model of Occupational Performance...

Profiling the Research Activities of Canadian Occupational Therapy and Occupational Science Faculty Members

Canadian Journal of Occupational Therapy

Background. There is a lack of knowledge on the scope and nature of the research by faculty membe... more Background. There is a lack of knowledge on the scope and nature of the research by faculty members in occupational science (OS) and/or occupational therapy (OT) programs in Canada. Purpose. To describe the research activities of faculty members in these programs and directions. Method. A cross-sectional survey was distributed to 173 faculty members across all 14 Canadian OT that addressed: 1) research topics and methods, 2) populations, and 3) funding. Findings. Based on respondents ( N = 121), research is focused on a range of topics and populations with most conducting qualitative research. Many conduct research examining the effectiveness of interventions, with few respondents focused on OS research. Federal and provincial grants agencies were the largest source of funding. Implications. Research topics studied were not always proportional to practice although emerging areas were being investigated that can expand the evidence base and scope of practice. Despite limited occupa...

Stroke Survivors and their Physiotherapists’ Perceptions of Recovery: A Multiple Methods Approach

Physiotherapy Canada

Purpose: This multiple-methods study examined perceptions of recovery among stroke survivors and ... more Purpose: This multiple-methods study examined perceptions of recovery among stroke survivors and their physiotherapists at discharge from an in-patient rehabilitation program. Method: The Functional Independence Measure (FIM) and Chedoke McMaster Stroke Assessment Activity Inventory scores were collected from chart review and the following outcome measures were completed by interview: Stroke Impact Scale (SIS) global recovery, Hospital Anxiety Depression Scale, and Montreal Cognitive Assessment. Physiotherapists also completed the SIS global recovery for each participant. Spearman and Pearson correlations between SIS recovery and observed measures were completed. The stroke survivors had a short interview about their perception of recovery and what recovery meant to them, and their physiotherapists answered two written questions about each participant’s recovery. Responses were coded and categorized based on the International Classification of Functioning. Results: A total of 31 str...

Supplemental Material, Leclair_Appendix_B - An occupational therapy community development practice process

Supplemental Material, Leclair_Appendix_B for An occupational therapy community development pract... more

Supplemental Material, Leclair_Appendix_A - An occupational therapy community development practice process

Supplemental Material, Leclair_Appendix_A for An occupational therapy community development pract... more