Linna Tam-Seto

Perceptions of Sedentary Behavior Among Socially Engaged Older Adults

Purpose To better understand the perceptions of sedentary behavior, its pros and cons, and the barriers associated with reducing sedentary time as it pertains to older adults. Design and Methods Four focus group sessions were conducted with older adults (n = 26). Each focus group lasted approximately 45min, was led by an experienced qualitative researcher, and utilized probing questions on the definition of sedentary behavior, pros and cons of sedentary behavior, and programming needs for sedentary time reduction. Sessions were recorded and transcribed verbatim. Two researchers independently extracted data from the transcripts and identified major themes and subthemes. Data on sociodemographics and current activity levels were collected via questionnaires. Results Participants were 74±8.5 years old and were primarily women (77%). They self-reported sitting for 5.6±1.7h per day and engaging in physical activity for 172±115min/day. Four themes were identified. The first theme indicated that older adults have varied definitions of the term sedentary behavior and that they have a negative perception of this term. The second theme indicated that participants perceived social, cognitive, and physical benefits to the sedentary activities in which they engaged, and that these activities were meaningful. The third theme indicated that physical health was the only perceived disadvantage of engaging in sedentary activities. Finally, the fourth theme indicated that there were several perceived barriers to sedentary time reduction, both person and environment related. Implications These findings have implications for use of terminology in policy and public health strategies targeting sedentary time reduction in older adults.

Occupational Therapy Shared Decision Making in Adolescent Mental Health

Shared decision making (SDM) shares values of client-centered practice; however, a few studies exist that explore experiences of occupational therapists (OTs) working in adolescent mental health. This study aims to better understand SDM in adolescent mental health using the Canadian Model of Client-Centered Enablement. A qualitative study included interviews (n = 6) and analysis using an inductive approach. The role of the OT, client factors, therapeutic relationship, and nature of the decision were identified as influencing the process and outcome of SDM. The study helps better understand SDM in practice, the need for specialized education for OTs and has identified future research areas.

School participation and children in military families: A scoping review

ABSTRACT Children from military families experience high mobility, stressors due to parental separation and increased risk of parental injury and death. This study aimed to identify and describe school-related occupational disruption for students from military families. Arskey and O’Malley’s structured approach to scoping reviews was used. Students in military families experience occupational challenges in managing transitions across schools, maintaining academics, developing social relationships, and engaging in extracurricular activities. The environment can also enable school-related occupations. Occupational therapists are encouraged to consider military-connected students as a vulnerable population and use school-based services to address mental health issues.

An Environmental Scan of Programs and Services for Families of Veterans With Operational Stress Injuries

ABSTRACT This study identifies and describes currently available programs and services for families who have a veteran family member living with Operational Stress Injuries (OSIs). An environmental scan was completed of web-based program information for familial OSI supports. Resources were reviewed and informed a SWOT (strength, weakness, opportunity, and threat) analysis. The study accessed 278 sources. Sixty-six resources met inclusion criteria, including 19 from Canada, 24 from the United States, 15 from the United Kingdom, and eight from Australia. Most resources are for active military members or veterans. Resource descriptions indicate a range of formats and intended family members. Existing resources are often embedded in supporting daily military life rather than issues related to life with OSIs, which may decrease efficacy of OSI-specific interventions. Information on evaluation and evidence for resources is also limited. Due to geographical challenges, there is a call for increasing use of technology to address equitable access.