UM-Flint Occupational Therapy Department launches disability bowling initiative

Rolling into new lanes of inclusion, the Occupational Therapy Department at the University of Michigan-Flint's College of Health Sciences has launched a program that it hopes could be right up the alley for individuals with disabilities. What started as a one-on-one bowling session has now struck a chord with the community, growing into a weekly event that's sparking joy and delivering therapeutic benefits for all involved.

"A patient, Craig Hawkins, was receiving one-on-one OT sessions from us, and he identified that he hadn't bowled since his stroke," said Elizabeth Yost, clinical assistant professor of occupational therapy. "By addressing what activities patients want to return to, we found bowling to be a common interest."

Importance of leisure and social participation

Yost emphasized the critical but often overlooked role of leisure and social participation in the recovery process. "Recovery typically focuses on physical rehabilitation," she said. "However, leisure activities and social interaction significantly enhance the overall quality of life for individuals with disabilities."

Funding from The Hagerman Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation has allowed the program to expand, targeting those needs that are frequently deprioritized in the medical model of care. "Our goal is to address not just the basic needs but also the wants, like leisure activities, which are critical for comprehensive recovery," Yost said.

Enhancing independence with assistive technology

The therapy sessions use customized equipment and assistive devices to improve participants' confidence and independence. Sessions are staged at Richfield and Bees Bowling centers, which have provided ramps and adjustable bowling rings to accommodate program participants, including those who are uncomfortable wearing traditional bowling shoes.

"We also focus on enhancing participants' independence," Yost said. "For instance, we are working with one woman who uses a rolling walker to help her transport the ball independently, ensuring she can bowl even without assistance."

Interdisciplinary student involvement
The program benefits from interdisciplinary collaboration, with students from various health programs volunteering to monitor vitals and assist with activities. "This setting allows students to apply their skills in real-world scenarios, focusing on safety, mobility and transfer skills," Yost said.

"Being a part of the bowling initiative during the fall semester was an incredibly fulfilling experience," said Gabriella Craner, an OT doctoral student from Fenton. "Initially, many participants were reserved and hesitant, but as the weeks passed, the smiles, banter and high-fives exchanged among them became clear indicators of their growing confidence and blossoming camaraderie. This transformation embodies the essence of occupational therapy, showcasing the power of meaningful, holistic support in enhancing the quality of life for others. It also reaffirms why I chose to pursue occupational therapy-to make a lasting impact on people's lives through comprehensive, compassionate and innovative care."

Community support and funding needs
As with most remote programs, the sustainability of the bowling therapy project depends on continual funding. "Our grant money has gone a long way, but ongoing support from the community is essential to keep this beneficial program running," Yost said.

Tanaiya Wilson, an OT doctoral student from Flint, believes her experience with the project has given her even more encouragement about her chosen career path. "Being able to provide a way for individuals who have undergone a stroke to be able to connect with other people is incredibly gratifying," she said. "Life can be really isolating for people who have experienced a stroke and this project was able to be a way to bring them out of isolation."

Future directions
The OT department remains committed to discovering unique and engaging approaches to help individuals with disabilities reconnect with social activities, benefiting both themselves and their communities. "Empowering participants extends beyond rehabilitation. Our bowling sessions demonstrate that recovery can be both effective and enjoyable and we hope to find additional pathways as well," Yost said.