OBJECTIVE. The objective of this article was to explore the effects of enhanced lighting on the function of people with an acquired visual deficit resulting from cerebrovascular accident (CVA) in an inpatient rehabilitation facility (IRF). METHOD. An ABAB design was used with two cases to assess how a short-term intervention involving lighting changes affected clients’ grooming performance in an IRF. Analysis consisted of scores on the grooming section of the FIM^®, times for each grooming task, and light meter readings. RESULTS. Both participants demonstrated improvements in function as measured by the FIM and in time to complete grooming tasks with enhanced lighting. CONCLUSION. These results suggest that individualized lighting can lead to improved grooming function in clients with CVA.

Date Presented 4/1/2017 This phenomenological qualitative study addressed best presentation of intervention materials for older adults with low vision. Practitioners can incorporate participant feedback from this study when developing or implementing intervention plans to benefit as many clients as possible. Primary Author and Speaker: Sarah Blaylock Contributing Authors: Laura Vogtle, Mary Warren

Date Presented 4/17/2015 This presentation describes the outcomes of a community-based physical activity and nutrition program for adolescents with Down syndrome. Changes in motor skills but not weight and body mass index (BMI) were found. Program development for this populations should be approached as a family and lifespan concern.

PURPOSE. To examine the visual status of a cohort of older adults on an orthopedic unit to determine their level of available vision to complete everyday activities in the hospital setting. METHOD. A convenience sample of 50 people was recruited. A visual history was obtained, and participants’ glasses were inspected. Distance acuity, reading acuity, and contrast sensitivity were assessed using standardized screening charts. RESULTS. Of participants, 26% did not have their glasses with them until prompted, and 85% had glasses in poor condition. When tested wearing their habitual correction, 6% had low vision, 2% were blind, 41% had reading acuities worse than 20/25, and 28% had contrast sensitivity deficits. CONCLUSION. Visual impairment is prevalent in older adults, yet visual function is not routinely screened in hospitals. Occupational therapists should routinely inquire about patients’ visual status, inspect their glasses, and encourage regular eye examinations. Failure to address vision could lead to inaccurate evaluation results.