Date of Paper/Work

8-2022

Type of Paper/Work

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Arts in Occupational Therapy

Department

Occupational Science/Occupational Therapy

First Advisor

Paula Rabaey

Department/School

Occupational Therapy

Abstract

This thesis examined how caregivers and their child with a disability living in Uganda responded to a low-cost feeding chair created by the SPOON foundation as part of a larger pilot study investigating the feasibility, usability, and acceptability of the chair. Utilizing a mixed methods design, 20 child-caregiver pairs participated in a one-hour session to test the SPOON chair during feeding. Caregivers also participated in a focus group discussion to give feedback about the chair. Results indicated the chair increased recommended anatomical and postural alignment needed for safe feeding, eating, and swallowing. Children also tolerated sitting in the chair with positive changes in affect observed. This pilot study revealed the need for slight modifications to the final chair design including reducing the seat height; increasing the chair width; and adding a longer seat belt, footrest, and additional chest strap. Following minor changes to the design, further intervention studies should be completed to ensure comprehensive data is collected.

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