GVSU Occupational Therapy Students Make ArtPrize Accessible for Older Adults

On October 2, 2013, Master’s in Occupational Therapy (OT) students from Grand Valley State University (GVSU) collaborated with Four Pointes Center for Successful Aging in Grand Haven, Michigan to tour ArtPrize. GVSU OT students provided an educational walking and bus tour for approximately 40 older adults. The purpose of this event was to encourage community engagement by making ArtPrize accessible to people of all ages and ability levels.

The ArtPrize Service Learning Assignment for GVSU OT students was developed in order to help students understand the needs of the well elderly who reside in the community and desire a high level of engagement in meaningful occupations. GVSU OT faculty partnered with Four Pointes Center for Successful Aging in 2010 to develop a community-based event that could benefit the Four Pointes members and GVSU students. The event has grown so significantly in popularity among the older adults that it has doubled in size in 4 years and sells out within a 2 hour window. The older adults describe this event as an opportunity to engage in art education and community learning that they would otherwise never attempt to “tackle.” Specifically, the GVSU OT students provide a flexible plan that includes intergenerational learning, social interaction, safe mobility, and accessibility  through a crowded and somewhat chaotic environment.

 This event has proven to serve many purposes, one of which is educating the public about occupational therapy.  Many people do not know what occupational therapy is and it is often confused with other professions.  The goal of occupational therapy is to help people establish, restore, and maintain function in meaningful activities.  This event has allowed people in the community to experience a broader understanding of the role occupational therapy can play in helping people to live healthy, satisfying lives.  Rolina Vermeer, Activities Director of Four Pointes, says, “I’ve come to understand that OT’s are interested in the whole person, and helping people in any circumstance to adjust to a full life.”