The Effectiveness of Telerehabilitation-Based Occupational Therapy Interventions on Sensory Processing and Functional Independence in the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Case Series

Year 2021, Volume: 4 Issue: 2, 160 - 165, 20.12.2021

Güleser Güney Yılmaz Gözde Önal

https://doi.org/10.33438/ijdshs.1008690

Abstract

Abstract

Our study aimed to determine the effectiveness of telerehabilitation-based occupational therapy interventions on the level of sensory processing and functional independence during the pandemic period. Five children between the ages of 5 and 7 with sensory integration disorders were included in our study. A total of 16 sessions of telerehabilitation, 8 weeks, 2 sessions per week, were carried out via online channels (Zoom/Skype). Dunn Sensory Profile and WeeFIM Functional Independence Measure were applied before and after treatment. Data before and after the session were compared with SPSS 23.00. As a result, positive effects of telerehabilitation interventions on visual, vestibular, tactile and multi-sensory processing and functional activity level were determined in children (p<0.05). In conditions that negatively affect face-to-face rehabilitation, such as a pandemic, telerehabilitation interventions can be safe and alternative approaches. More telerehabilitation researchs are needed in the field of occupational therapy.

Keywords

telerehabilitation, sensory integration, pandemic, occupational performance, occupational therapy

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