Caregiver Well-Being & Connectedness to Nature: A Cross-Sectional Survey Study
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Lauren Nedilsky
CoPIs:
Shauna Corbet, Hannah Criollo, Bianca DeSousa, Rebecca Gasin, Michelle Vazquez, Lauren Nedilsky
College:
The College of Health Professions and Human Services
Major:
Occupational Therapy
Faculty Research Advisor(s):
Amanda Sarafian
Abstract:
Abstract: Caregiver Well-Being and Connectedness to Nature: A Cross-Sectional Survey Study
Background: Caregivers of individuals with disabilities report social isolation and restricted leisure activities as common challenges in daily life. Emerging evidence indicates that nature-based interventions nurture social connectedness and as a result pro-health behaviors and well-being. Review of the literature indicates that there is a lack of current research on the experiences of caregivers of adults with developmental disabilities (DD), leisure participation, and health promotion within the scope of community-based occupational therapy for this population. Therefore, occupational therapy nature-based interventions aimed at fostering social connections, promoting mental health, and building supportive communities are warranted.
Type of Study with Research Design: The Caregiver Well-being and Connectedness to Nature study is a quantitative, non-experimental, cross-sectional survey design.
Purpose of Study With Objective(s): The aim of this study is to explore the experiences of caregivers of adults with DD, including their well-being and connectedness to nature.
Methods: Part I of this study examined the content validity of the researcher developed survey. Part II of the study included distribution of the anonymous survey to community practices through social media via convenience sampling and data analysis.
Proposed Analysis of Data with Outcome Measures: This study will analyze both quantitative and qualitative data, and gather demographic information. The programs SPSS and NVIVO will be used for quantitative and qualitative analysis, respectively. A chi-squared test will be utilized to determine the association between the predictor and outcome variables. The Content Validity Index questionnaire and Caregiver of Adults with Developmental Disabilities Well-being and Leisure Survey will serve as the outcome measures for this study.
Findings: Anticipated results of this study include a valid survey with items that represent and are sensitive to the lived experiences of caregivers; demographics and current mental, physical, and social well-being of caregivers of adults with DD; caregiver's level of connectedness to nature or close relationship to natural surroundings; supports and barriers to participation in natural surroundings and nature-based activities; and level of interest of caregivers in nature-based interventions.
Limitations: Limitations include a limited time frame within the context of a course.
Significance of the Study/Anticipated Outcomes: The results of this survey will guide future investigation into caregiver perspectives of nature-based leisure activities and effectiveness of nature-based interventions to improve mental and social health.