The Role of Occupational Therapy Practitioners in Evaluation and Intervention of Sleep with Older Adult Clients

Objective: This study sought to explore occupational therapy practitioners’ perceptions of their role in working with older adults with sleep issues. Methods: A mixed methods approach was used with data gathered from an online survey tool disseminated through social media platforms. Data from 17 participants was analyzed. Results: Respondents reported not receiving entry-level knowledge of sleep evaluation in academic programs (70.6%). Additionally, 41.2% of respondents utilized continuing education opportunities. Respondents reported lack of occupational therapy specific evaluation tools as a significant barrier to addressing sleep in practice. Discussion: Results indicate the need for additional research, coverage on sleep in the academic curriculum, and professional development opportunities, and occupational therapy specific evaluations for addressing sleep