Developmental Disability: broad term used to describe a range of conditions that result in an impairment in physical, learning/cognition, language or behavior areas

Intellectual Disability: characterized by deficits in intellectual functions such as reasoning and abstract thinking that leads to impairments in adaptive functioning impacting personal, social, and/or occupational functioning

• Typically occur due to genetic errors, congenital malformations, prenatal exposure to infection, substance or trauma

• Impacts 2-3% of the population, Down Syndrome being the most common (9%)

• Marked by IQ levels below 70; ranging from mild to profound levels of severity

Brown, C., Stoffel, V.C., & Munoz, J.P. (2019). Occupational therapy in mental health: A vision for participation (2nd ed.). F.A. Davis. https://doi.org/10.1080/0164212X.2019.1676863 

Morin, A. (2024). Autism (ASD) & Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (I/DD). [PowerPoint slides]. Microsoft PowerPoint. https://kodiak.wne.edu/d2l/le/content/114052/viewContent/1690072/View 

Audience: Client 

Diagnosis(es)/Condition(s): I/DD, ASD,

Age Range/Population: Young Adult & Adult

Purpose: The Game of Life allows clients to practice decision-making, money management, social skills, life skills, and judgment in a structured, yet fun, environment. Through role-playing real-life scenarios, clients can learn about various situations they may encounter, such as career choices, family dynamics, or financial decisions, and the consequences of those decisions. 

Instructions: In The Game of Life, players navigate through a simulated life journey where they make decisions about their education, career, family, and finances. The goal is to accumulate wealth and experience by progressing through life stages such as getting a job, buying a house, or raising a family. Players must manage their finances while navigating unexpected events (e.g., car accidents, career setbacks, or opportunities). 

Rationale & Impact on Function: Engaging in the Game of Life provides clients with I/DD an opportunity to understand real-life scenarios and develop key functional skills. It encourages clients to practice making choices, managing money, and engaging in social interactions to facilitate developments in social participation, health management, IADLs, and other various occupations. By simulating real-world situations, clients can improve their problem-solving abilities and judgment, ultimately increasing their confidence and independence in everyday life. This intervention also promotes life skills and decision-making, which are essential for greater functional independence and participation in various occupations, such as work, community engagement, and self-care. Through coaching and reflection, OT helps clients identify challenges they may face in real life and develop practical solutions for navigating those challenges. OT also works on cognitive, motor, and emotional skills that affect how clients approach tasks, ensuring that they are ready to apply the lessons learned in the game to real-life situations.

Reference(s): The game of life board game rules & instructions. (n.d.). Hasbro. Retrieved October 13, 2024, from https://instructions.hasbro.com/en-us/instruction/the-game-of-life-game 

Audience: Client 

Diagnosis(es)/Condition(s): I/DD, ADHD, ASD

Age Range/Population: Pediatrics

Purpose: This form of aquatic occupational therapy promotes learning and allows for children to work on sensory regulation, gross motor skills & coordination, and retained reflexes that, when underdeveloped, affect posture and creates difficulties with reading and writing.

Instructions: The child will begin by engaging in simple movements in the water, such as walking or arm circles to allow the child to get adjusted to the water. Afterward, introduce targeted activities such as floating, kicking, or reaching for objects that improve strength, coordination, and sensory regulation while allowing the child to explore various movements while gradually increasing challenges based on their abilities.

Rationale & Impact on Function: Aquatic therapy improves motor skills, sensory regulation, and social interaction for children, while boosting confidence and promoting water safety. It provides a supportive environment for developing physical and functional skills essential for daily life.

Reference(s): Hong, M.R. (2013). Angelfish therapy: Aquatic therapy for developmental delays. Almost Autism.