Home Based Occupational Therapy for Premature Infants

Investigators

Denise Reid, Professor, Department of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy, University of Toronto
Teresa Chui, PhD Candidate, Researcher, COTA Health

About the Project

This study explores parent-infant interaction and developmental changes in infants receiving home based OT intervention among different cultural groups living in Toronto.

Occupational Therapy Practice Implications

With OT intervention sensitive cultural needs of different cultural groups but not focused directly on training relationship skills, parent-infant relationships can be modified. OTs need to be sensitive to unique sets of cultural norms and beliefs in delivering home based intervention.

Project Specifics

Methods

Mixed methods Pretest-postest design study using videotaped sessions, focus groups, and interviews. Duration approximately six months of intervention. Sample includes three groups of parents and infants: Chinese, Tamil, and Caucasians. Outcome measures: Alberta Infant Motor Scale, Parent-Child Early Relational Scale, and The Chattoor Feeding Scale.

Findings

Parental expectations and child rearing practices differ among cultural groups. They all experience tensions and difficulties with their premature infant. All infants demonstrate a change in development, and caregivers’ relationship towards their infants change after OT intervention.

Funding Source

Hospital for Sick Children Foundation

Research Partners

COTA Health