Document Type

Report

College

College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences

Department

Occupational Therapy

Degree

Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD)

Report Date

5-2026

Faculty Mentor

Morin, Alexis M. F.

Doctoral Experiential Coordinator

Latour, Debra

Abstract

Neurodegenerative conditions are characterized by progressive dysfunction and degeneration of the nervous system, often resulting in a combination of physical, cognitive, and psychosocial challenges that significantly impact quality of life. Common examples include Multiple Sclerosis (MS) and Parkinson’s Disease (PD), both of which present with complex and variable symptom profiles. Despite advances in pharmacological management, there remains a critical gap in interventions that address mental health, social participation, and overall well-being for individuals living with these conditions. This capstone project, Flowing Forward, was developed as a community-based adaptive aquatic recreation program aimed at addressing these gaps through participation in meaningful, group-based leisure activity. The 6-week program integrated gentle physical activity, cognitive-motor engagement, and structured opportunities for social interaction within an accessible aquatic environment. Grounded in principles from the Occupational Therapy Practice Framework (OTPF-4) and aligned with National Health Prevention Strategy efforts, the program emphasized a holistic approach to health and wellness. A mixed methods approach was used to evaluate program outcomes. Pre- and post- intervention data were collected using both qualitative and quantitative measures, including the Depression Anxiety Stress Scales (DASS-42), researcher-generated surveys, and focus groups, along with observational and anecdotal data recorded throughout program implementation. Findings suggest the program influenced participants' perceived mental health, sense of community, and engagement in meaningful activity. These outcomes highlight the value of adaptive aquatic recreation as an approach to support psychosocial well-being and quality of life. This project underscores the need for increased focus on mental health-centered, community-based programming for individuals with neurodegenerative conditions.

Keywords: Neurodegenerative Conditions, Multiple Sclerosis (MS), Parkinson’s Disease (PD), Aquatic Recreation, Aquatic Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Quality of Life, Mental Health, Social Participation

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