Enhancing the Therapeutic Value of Equine Assisted Activities to Promote Maximum Occupational Performance
Graduation Date
2007
Document Type
Master's Thesis
Document Form
Degree Name
Masters of Science in Occupational Therapy
Department
Occupational Therapy
Department or Program Chair
Ruth Ramsey, EdD, OTR/L
Thesis Advisor
Bonnie Napier-Tibere, EdD, OTR/L
Second Advisor
Ruth Ramsey, EdD, OTR/L
Abstract
Despite the growing interest in the various therapeutic uses of the horse, the majority of current research has been published by physical therapists and mental health professionals. More recently, occupational therapist have begun to consider the use of the horse and its environment to motivate and facilitate improvements in skills and abilities needed for functional activities of daily life—occupations. Currently, limited research exists on the effectiveness of equine assisted activities (EAA) in promoting participation in meaningful occupations. However, before a study can investigate the effectiveness of EAA, activities that specifically address participation in occupations need to be designed. Such activities will provide consistency and structure in studying their use and help to maximize the therapeutic potential of the horse and its environment.
This project focused on the creation of a multi-section reference manual for therapeutic riding instructors at Handi-Riders Therapeutic Riding Program, with a secondary emphasis aimed at providing consistent information for parents to enhance carry over of therapeutic foci. The manual created is a collection of lesson plans of equine-based activities that aid in the development of physical, cognitive and psychosocial skills necessary for activities of daily living. Additional sections focus on reference materials for therapeutic riding instructors.
Occupational therapists consider meaningful occupational activities as both an ends and a means to treatment. For maximum therapeutic effects, the clients must be motivated and actively participating. For many, the horse and its environment provide this motivation to achieve new skills and abilities. Carefully planned activities within this setting provide innate opportunities to practice skills in a meaningful way.