Margaret Carter, OT/s
Robin Newman, OTD, OTR, CLT, FAOTA; Rachel Dyer, Associate Director of the Maine Developmental Disabilities Council
Department of Occupational Therapy
Individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) experience:
COVID-19 Pandemic
Amid pandemic, individuals with IDD are less likely to engage in virtual social participation using digital technology and are at a greater risk for loneliness
Universal Design for Learning (UDL)
Knowledge to Action (KTA) Framework
iPads – 147 individuals with IDD receive iPads
Observation – Observe existing Zoom groups for individuals with IDD
Assistance – Assist participants (individuals with IDD and/or staff) with technical support as needed
Data – Gather and analyze data from surveys and focus groups
Conclusion – Compose report with conclusions and recommendations
114 participants responded to two online surveys approximately 1 and 2 months after receiving iPad
At conclusion of iPad project:
-Telehealth
-Day programs
-Contact with case managers and providers
Themes from qualitative data:
Providing individuals with IDD with iPads in conjunction with family/staff support, technology assistance, and accessible resources facilitated:
Future directions include: