The programming committee for the 79th Annual SAM International Business Conference is pleased to announce the acceptance of the presentation, Occupational Therapy Life Skills Program for Women Experiencing Homelessness by Kayla Wolf.
In the ever-evolving landscape of social issues and interventions, a groundbreaking academic paper has emerged, shedding light on the significant challenge of homelessness among women, particularly single mothers. Authored by esteemed researchers, this study delves into the realm of occupational therapy as a potential catalyst for change, offering new insights and hope for those affected. It is with great anticipation that this paper will be presented at the upcoming SAM International Business Conference, an event renowned for its platform in fostering discussions on innovative solutions to global challenges.
The research focuses on the efficacy of an occupational therapy life skills program designed specifically for women experiencing homelessness. By exploring the intersection of systemic factors and individual vulnerabilities that contribute to homelessness, the study meticulously outlines a program aimed at enhancing occupational performance. The intervention includes a comprehensive approach with an introductory interview, a pretest using the Canadian Occupational Performance Measure (COPM), group therapy sessions targeting life skills, individual sessions to hone in on personal goals, and an exit interview to assess progress.
Conducted at Citizen’s Inn Family Shelter in Peabody, MA, the study’s findings are based on a detailed analysis of the program’s impact on participants. Despite the challenge of a small sample size, with only one participant completing the program, the results are telling. This participant demonstrated a significant improvement in occupational performance and a decrease in self-reported vulnerability, highlighting the potential of occupational therapy to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those it reaches.
The presentation of this paper at the SAM International Business Conference is poised to spark a vital conversation on the role of occupational therapy in addressing homelessness. It underscores the importance of innovative, interdisciplinary approaches to social issues, offering a beacon of hope for future research and intervention strategies. The study’s implications extend beyond the immediate findings, suggesting a broader applicability of occupational therapy interventions in reducing individual vulnerability, particularly among individuals recovering from substance abuse.
As the academic community and conference attendees look forward to this presentation, the paper stands as a testament to the ongoing efforts to tackle complex societal challenges through research and innovation. The limitations acknowledged by the researchers only emphasize the necessity for further exploration in this field, promising a future where interventions like occupational therapy can offer tangible improvements in the lives of those facing homelessness.
The SAM International Business Conference, known for its commitment to addressing global business and societal issues, provides the perfect backdrop for this discussion. The conference’s audience, ranging from academics to practitioners, will undoubtedly benefit from the insights provided by this study, fostering a collaborative environment for addressing homelessness with compassion and evidence-based solutions. As the date of the conference approaches, anticipation builds for the impactful dialogue that this paper will inspire, setting the stage for future initiatives that aim to transform lives through the power of occupational therapy and concerted societal efforts.
Join us online or in person at SAMIBC 2024 and see this great presentation and many more March 19 – March 23, 2024. For registration information visit www.samnational.org/conference.